Acts 26:24–32

Not Quite Persuaded

²⁴As he was making his defense this way, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You’re out of your mind, ^kPaul! Too much study is driving you mad!”

²⁵But Paul replied, “I’m not out of my mind, most excellent Festus. On the contrary, I’m speaking words of truth and good judgment. ^l26For the king knows about these matters. It is to him I am actually speaking boldly. For I am convinced that none of these things escapes his notice, since this was not done in a corner. ²⁷King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you believe.”

²⁸Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Are you going to persuade me to become a Christian so easily?”

²⁹“I wish before God,” replied Paul, “that whether easily or with difficulty, not only you but all who listen to me today might become as I am—except for these chains.” ^m

³⁰So the king, the governor, Bernice, and those sitting with them got up, ³¹and when they had left they talked with each other and said, “This man is doing nothing that deserves death or chains.” ⁿ

³²Then Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar.” ^o