Acts 26:3
What does Acts 26:3 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 26:3 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 26:3 means
Paul highlights Agrippa’s expertise in Jewish customs and debates, asking for patient hearing. He is signaling that the issues at stake—interpretation of Moses and the prophets, the hope of resurrection, and messianic fulfillment—require careful listening. By appealing to patience, Paul warns against snap judgments and invites thoughtful consideration. He believes an informed ruler can distinguish between political sedition and theological conviction. This is wise rhetoric: he frames his defense as a matter of continuity with Israel’s faith, not rebellion. The gospel he preaches, centered on Jesus’ suffering and resurrection, stands within the stream of Scripture rightly understood.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000especially because thou art expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901especially because thou art expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949The more so, because you are expert in all questions to do with the Jews and their ways: so I make my request to you to give me a hearing to the end.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862especially knowing thee to be acquainted with all things--both customs and questions--among Jews; wherefore, I beseech thee, patiently to hear me.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Especially as thou knowest all, both customs and questions, that are among the Jews. Wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890especially because thou art acquainted with all the customs and questions which are among the Jews; wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
Context
Paul continues his courteous preface begun in verse 2. Calling attention to Agrippa’s knowledge prepares the audience for a defense rooted in Scripture and Jewish history. Next (verses 4–5), Paul will establish his credibility as a lifelong, public participant in Jewish religion, specifically as a Pharisee. That background will underpin his claim (verses 6–8) that he is on trial for the very hope shared by Israel, especially resurrection. The request for patience is strategic, anticipating complex themes and defusing prejudice.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 26:26
For the king knoweth of these things, unto whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things is hidden from him; for this hath not been done in a corner.
- Deuteronomy 17:18
And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book, out of that which is before the priests the Levites:
- Acts 24:10
And when the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, Paul answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I cheerfully make my defence:
- Acts 6:14
for we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered unto us.
- Acts 24:4
But, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I entreat thee to hear us of thy clemency a few words.
- Acts 28:17
And it came to pass, that after three days he called together those that were the chief of the Jews: and when they were come together, he said unto them, I, brethren, though I had done nothing against the people, or the customs of our fathers, yet was delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans:
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