Acts 26:29 – “Paul replied, ‘Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.'”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Paul is standing before King Agrippa, Governor Festus, and other high-ranking officials, defending himself against false accusations. Agrippa has just asked Paul, perhaps mockingly, if he really thinks he can persuade him to become a Christian so quickly (Acts 26:28).

Paul’s response is powerful and heartfelt:

1. “Short time or long” – Paul is not concerned with how long it takes; he just wants Agrippa and everyone present to come to faith in Jesus.
2. “I pray to God” – Paul knows that salvation is ultimately God’s work, not something he can force or argue someone into.
3. “Not only you but all who are listening” – Paul is not just speaking to Agrippa; he is offering the gospel to everyone in the room.
4. “May become what I am” – Paul is a follower of Jesus, and he wants them to experience the same salvation, peace, and eternal life that he has.
5. “Except for these chains” – Even though Paul is a prisoner, he does not want them to suffer the same earthly hardships, only to receive the spiritual freedom he has in Christ.

This verse shows Paul’s passion for sharing the gospel. Even as a prisoner standing before rulers who had the power to condemn him, Paul’s biggest concern is their salvation, not his own freedom.

Historical Context

Paul had been arrested in Jerusalem after being falsely accused of bringing a Gentile into the temple (Acts 21:27-29). After multiple trials, he appealed to Caesar, which meant he would be sent to Rome. Before being sent, he was allowed to present his case before King Agrippa II and Governor Festus.

• Agrippa was a Jewish ruler who knew the Old Testament. Paul tailored his message to show how Jesus fulfilled Jewish prophecy.
• Festus was a Roman governor who found Paul’s beliefs strange, especially the idea of resurrection.
• The audience included Roman officials and Jewish leaders. Paul saw this as an opportunity to preach, not just defend himself.

Instead of focusing on his legal defense, Paul took this moment of trial as a chance to share Jesus Christ with some of the most powerful people in the region.

Theological Implications

1. Salvation is for everyone. Paul wanted all who were listening, from kings to common people, to believe in Jesus (Romans 1:16).
2. Evangelism should be persistent. Paul didn’t pressure Agrippa but made it clear that salvation is urgent and available to all (2 Corinthians 6:2).
3. Spiritual freedom is more important than physical circumstances. Paul was in chains, but he was freer than Agrippa and Festus, who were enslaved to sin (John 8:36).

Paul’s words remind us that the gospel is worth sharing, no matter the cost.

Literary Analysis

This verse comes at the climax of Paul’s courtroom speech. His response is:

• Personal – “I pray to God” shows his deep concern for the people in the room.
• Universal – He wants everyone listening to come to faith, not just Agrippa.
• Hopeful but realistic – He understands that conversion may take time, but he still urges them to believe.
• Compassionate – He wishes for them to experience salvation, but not his suffering.

Paul’s words contrast with Agrippa’s indifference and Festus’ skepticism, showing that Paul’s heart is fully committed to Christ, no matter the cost.

Biblical Cross-References

• Romans 1:16 – “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” (Paul’s boldness in sharing Christ.)
• 2 Corinthians 6:2 – “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (Paul’s urgency for people to believe.)
• John 8:36 – “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (Paul is in chains but spiritually free.)
• Philippians 1:12-14 – Paul’s imprisonment actually helps spread the gospel. (God uses every situation for His glory.)

These verses confirm that Paul’s mission was not about personal freedom but about bringing people to Jesus.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. We should share the gospel boldly. Paul shared Christ even when it was risky. We should do the same in our own lives.
2. People may reject or delay responding to the gospel. Agrippa didn’t convert, but Paul still planted a seed. We should trust God to work in people’s hearts.
3. True freedom comes through Jesus. Paul’s physical chains didn’t matter because his soul was free in Christ. Are we living as people who are truly free?

This verse is a challenge to us: Do we care about people’s salvation as much as Paul did?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

• God wants all people to be saved. Paul’s desire reflects God’s own heart (2 Peter 3:9).
• God gives people the opportunity to respond. Agrippa had the chance to believe, just as God gives every person the opportunity to know Him (John 3:16).
• God uses every situation for good. Even though Paul was in prison, God used him to reach leaders and rulers (Genesis 50:20).

God’s love is seen in His patience, His invitation to all people, and His ability to turn even suffering into a way to spread the gospel.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul’s passion for seeing people saved mirrors Jesus’ own mission:

1. Jesus preached to all people. He spoke to rulers, the poor, the religious, and the outcasts (Luke 19:10).
2. Jesus desired for all to believe. “Jerusalem, Jerusalem… how often I have longed to gather your children together” (Matthew 23:37).
3. Jesus suffered for the sake of others. Just as Paul was willing to endure chains for the gospel, Jesus willingly endured the cross for our salvation (Hebrews 12:2).

Paul was simply following the example of Christ—a life fully dedicated to bringing others into God’s kingdom.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Paul cared deeply about Agrippa’s salvation. Do you have the same passion for the lost?
2. Have you ever hesitated to share your faith because of fear? How does Paul’s boldness challenge you?
3. Why do you think Agrippa refused to believe? What holds people back from accepting Jesus today?
4. How can you use your current situation (whether good or bad) to share the gospel like Paul did?
5. If you could pray one thing for the people around you, what would it be? How does Paul’s prayer inspire you?