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Paul's Speech Before Agrippa
Here's how Paul's speech breaks down:
"Paul’s speech once again follows the standard pattern of defense speeches of the first century. It starts with the exordium (introductory address to the king [26:2–3]), proceeds to the narratio (the narration of events [26:4–18]), and ends with the argumentio (the proof of his case [26:19–23]). Paul acknowledges the acquaintance of the young king with “Jewish customs and controversies,” thus implying his suitability to hear his “defense” (26:2–3). Technically this was not a legal defense, but the word is used in a general sense here.
The narratio gives Paul’s testimony. This is his fullest testimony in Acts because it discusses his pre-Christian activity, his conversion, and his calling, which drives his mission." [1]
Though understanding the structure of Paul's speech is helpful, it's a lot more important to take note of the PURPOSE of the speech. It's easy to just think that the purpose is legal in nature - Paul is trying to defend himself, right? But Paul gives us the more important purpose behind it in verse 29 (with v. 28 for context):
"And Agrippa said to Paul, 'In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?' And Paul said, 'Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.'"
Paul speaks because He knows the truth and has been changed. He speaks in order that all who hear might know Jesus. He blends historical facts with his personal testimony to show that this is huge and life-changing! May we be faithful and be ready to speak like Paul does here. May we know the Gospel truly and deeply. May we be prepared to share our own story just as Paul does here!
Paul's Speech Before Agrippa
Here's how Paul's speech breaks down:
"Paul’s speech once again follows the standard pattern of defense speeches of the first century. It starts with the exordium (introductory address to the king [26:2–3]), proceeds to the narratio (the narration of events [26:4–18]), and ends with the argumentio (the proof of his case [26:19–23]). Paul acknowledges the acquaintance of the young king with “Jewish customs and controversies,” thus implying his suitability to hear his “defense” (26:2–3). Technically this was not a legal defense, but the word is used in a general sense here.
The narratio gives Paul’s testimony. This is his fullest testimony in Acts because it discusses his pre-Christian activity, his conversion, and his calling, which drives his mission." [1]
Though understanding the structure of Paul's speech is helpful, it's a lot more important to take note of the PURPOSE of the speech. It's easy to just think that the purpose is legal in nature - Paul is trying to defend himself, right? But Paul gives us the more important purpose behind it in verse 29 (with v. 28 for context):
"And Agrippa said to Paul, 'In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?' And Paul said, 'Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.'"
Paul speaks because He knows the truth and has been changed. He speaks in order that all who hear might know Jesus. He blends historical facts with his personal testimony to show that this is huge and life-changing! May we be faithful and be ready to speak like Paul does here. May we know the Gospel truly and deeply. May we be prepared to share our own story just as Paul does here!
[1] Ajith Fernando, Acts, The NIV Application Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1998), 594.
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