Session 11: The Speech

Session Overview

Creedal Statement

Coming soon.

Key Elements

• Key Passage - Acts 26:1–32
• Scripture Memory - Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians 4:6
• Catechism - Q: What should Christians show about the faith when people accuse it? A: Credible.

Introduction

But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.

It is the power of truth in the heart alone that will make us cleave unto it indeed in an hour of temptation. Let us, then, not think that we are anything the better for our conviction of the truths of the great doctrines of the gospel, for which we contend with these men, unless we find the power of the truths abiding in our own hearts, and have a continual experience of their necessity and excellency in our standing before God and our communion with Him.

The core message of the Christian faith is the good news of salvation for all people. Embedded in the proclamation of Jesus’ saving work is an invitation for people to respond in faith. However, as we have learned throughout the course of this study, people will vary in their responses to this gospel invitation. While some will readily receive the message in faith, others will be reticent, or even antagonistic, to the message. Because the gospel makes exclusive claims of truth and warns about eternal judgment for those who reject it, believers should not be surprised by the mixed responses, ranging from belief to hesitancy to hostility.

Replying to each of these responses, Christians can offer a loving service to others by explaining the credibility of the gospel message. Not only is the gospel a message of cosmic significance, but it is a sensible, reasonable, and trustworthy message to believe. In essence, people do not need to ignore their questions, hide their doubts, or disown their reason to be Christians. Quite to the contrary, the gospel unlocks a true understanding of reality, calms our deepest insecurities and fears, and addresses the most urgent questions we have about life. For Christians, defending the faith does not involve military might or physical violence. Rather, offering a reasonable explanation of the faith—showing that the Christian message warrants our belief—is one that allows the clarity of the gospel message to answer the pressing concerns that burden this broken world.

The ministry of Paul serves as a model for our God-assigned work of global witness. As each Christian shares the gospel with others—that is, as each believer bears witness to the risen Christ—he can expect people to challenge (or at least question) the integrity of the Christian faith. Wrapped up in the work of evangelism is answering objections, responding to misunderstandings, addressing doubts, clarifying misconceptions, and defending Christianity’s credibility in the face of many accusations. This work of defense, often called apologetics, is a vital work in Christian witness. Armed with biblical principles, each Christian can engage in the work of gospel defense alongside gospel proclamation.

In Acts 26:1–32, Paul stood before King Agrippa to offer a defense of his life, faith, and ministry. Having been arrested for his faith in Jesus, Paul’s defense of his ministry amounted to a defense of Christianity. He approached his defense with respect and boldness, explaining the nature of the Christian hope, the dramatic transformation of his conversion, and the basic message of the gospel. Paul appealed to the veracity and credibility of the gospel by the fact that Christianity is traceable in history. Further, he encouraged Agrippa to make a personal response of allegiance to Christianity. In the end, Paul was vindicated, and the gospel was announced in compelling terms. Based upon this amazing and historic apologetic speech, Christians can build a wise and biblical approach to apologetics.

You may have many objections or fears related to the work of apologetics. You may feel ill-equipped for the task, fearful that people will raise questions or concerns that you cannot answer. You may personally be wrestling with your own doubts about the claims of Christianity. You may be terrified by the potential of a hostile and life-threatening reaction to any defense of the gospel. Or, you may simply have never thought about what a defense of the gospel entails. If any of these hesitations characterize your heart, or if you simply want to develop confidence in sharing your faith, the present story offers tremendous guidance to help you spread the word to more and more people. Let us study this inspired text to learn about the credible, rational, and reasonable nature of the Christian faith.

Biblical Interpretation: Hearing the Word

Study the Text: The Bible is God’s inspired word to his people. Christian disciples mature in the faith when they are grounded in God’s word. In this movement, you will study the basic details of the biblical text.

Observation Questions

Read (or listen to) the whole passage of Scripture. Discuss the questions below for each section of the story. Pay attention to the details of the text to recall what the passage is saying. Use the focus verses to guide your conversation.

Storycraft

Retell the story in your own words, recounting the overall flow of the narrative, the main segments of the story, and the major developments that take place.

Narrative Elements

Story Retell

Theological Dialogue: Discussing the Plot

Explore the Text: God’s word is his trustworthy and sufficient revelation to his people. We grow as Christ’s disciples by rooting our lives in God’s unchanging truth. In this movement, you will explore vital teachings of this biblical passage.

Discussion Questions

Summarize the biblical story. As a community, discuss the following questions. Be attentive to the truths taught in this text. Use the commentary on the next pages to uncover core principles this passage teaches about the Christian faith.

Biblical Commentary

Use this commentary to help you understand the meaning of the text. Refer to the infographic on the next page to think through how narratives work.

Passage Introduction

Key Idea

Christians are called to give credible reasons for their hope as Christ followers in a way that shows the gospel is reliable, trustworthy, and rational.

Passage Overview

Paul’s speech before Agrippa remains a powerful example of gospel witness and defense to this day. His respectful and pointed address centered on the essence of Christian hope. The use of his personal testimony, gospel proclamation, and bold interaction with Agrippa should inspire us to share the gospel in a way that showcases the message’s credibility and coherence. Finding himself in a high-stakes encounter, Paul showed courage and honor. He spoke with clarity and uncompromising fidelity to the gospel. He remained personable and yet was prepared to respond to known accusations. Paul relied on the testimony of his life character and his spoken word. Truly, on many fronts, Paul’s first-century work is a useful lesson for present-day witness. As we engage in our evangelistic work, we can be sure that apologetic interaction will be a part of that task. To help you think about the apologetic character of Christian witness, use the following commentary to help you understand Paul’s speech and its implications for our evangelistic work.

Passage Outline

Defending the Faith

Beloved, although I made every effort to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt it necessary to write and urge you to contend earnestly for the faith entrusted once for all to the saints.

Suppose a number of persons were to take it into their heads that they had to defend a lion, a full-grown king of beasts! There he is in the cage, and here come all the soldiers of the army to fight for him. Well, I should suggest to them, if they would not object, and feel that it was humbling to them, that they should kindly stand back, and open the door, and let the lion out! I believe that would be the best way of defending him, for he would take care of himself; and the best “apology” for the gospel is to let the gospel out.

Introduction

The Christian faith is credible. Against all accusations and allegations, the gospel message stands on a firm and true foundation. Although people have genuine and earnest questions about the Christian message, when all is fully understood, the simple gospel will maintain its rightful claim on truth. Resilient against skeptical remarks, cynical uncertainties, false charges, and dismissive questions, God calls Christians to offer a credible defense of the Christian faith. This work of apologetics—showing the reasonableness of our faith—is an inevitable part of evangelistic work.

People question the Christian faith for a number of reasons. Some wonder about its exclusive claims of truth: Can it be that the gospel message is the only means of being restored to right relationship with God? Others struggle to understand how Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection accomplished eternal salvation. Many remain in denial of their sinful condition and therefore see the Christian message as irrelevant (even an impediment) to living a fulfilling life. People who deny the existence of God or the supernatural will question the legitimacy of the Christian message. To all these concerns (and many more), the Christian faith has credible answers. While human reasoning cannot cause a person’s heart to change (this is a divine work accomplished by the Holy Spirit), a credible defense of the Christian faith can remove obstacles to doubting inquirers and can strengthen the young faith of new believers.

Paul provides a remarkable example of giving public witness and compelling defense to the gospel. After being arrested for his faith (21:27–36), Paul gave a series of speeches before different groups. These speeches (and conversations) represent Paul’s defense of his ministry, which amounts to his defense of the Christian faith. He spoke before a hostile crowd (21:37–22:29), before the Jewish council (22:30–23:11), before governor Felix (23:12–24:27), and before governor Festus (25:1–12). Eventually, Paul presented his defense before King Agrippa (25:13–26:32). Paul’s interactions with these various groups provide a certain foundation for how believers can offer a credible defense of the Christian faith to the surrounding world.

In Acts 26:1–32, Paul offers a public defense of the faith in which he explains the nature of the Christian hope. Recounting his conversion and the basic gospel message, Paul presented Agrippa with the credibility, reasonableness, and trustworthiness of the Christian message, accompanied by a persuasive appeal for Agrippa to respond to the gospel message in faith. In the end, Agrippa offered a response that exonerated Paul and vindicated the gospel message. When read with an attentive mind and a missional focus, this biblical narrative can serve as an introductory lesson on the Christian’s apologetic duty: defending the faith in the public sector.

Inspiring as it is instructive, Paul’s bold testimony before Agrippa (and the other listeners in Acts 22–26) assists the church in her evangelistic responsibility. No generation or culture will be without accusations, allegations, and attacks against Christianity. Learning from Paul’s example, Christians and churches can confidently and compassionately minister to a world questioning the Christian faith. Importantly, as we will see from Paul’s witness, the simplicity and power of the gospel message serve as its own defense to the wider world. While rational arguments, philosophical reasoning, and intellectual debates have their place, the very beginning of apologetic work involves an open and clear defense of our Christ-centered hope, a hope that not only serves as an anchor for our own lives but also a hope that intrigues the world to learn more.

Against All Accusations: Making a Clear Defense

Biblical Narrative (Acts 26:1–3)

As a prisoner awaiting trial (21:27–36), Paul had already presented his defense before a number of listeners (21:37–25:12). At this point in the narrative, Governor Festus presented Paul’s case to King Agrippa (25:13–27). Because Festus was unable to judge Paul’s case, he leaned upon Agrippa to record the charges against Paul (25:26–27). When he learned about Paul’s case, Agrippa wanted to listen to Paul give his own defense (25:22). Paul’s presence at this hearing represents a conclusive verdict that Paul was innocent of wrongdoing and that the gospel was credible.

It is amazing that Paul had gained the audience of such a notable and royal figure as King Agrippa. Throughout his missionary journeys, Paul had ministered the gospel to a diverse group of people and had a specific focus on preaching the gospel to Gentiles. Now, Paul was able to offer a gospel defense before a powerful and notable leader, cementing his claims about Christ in a bold and public witness. At the time of this hearing, King Agrippa told Paul, “You have permission to speak for yourself” (26:1). Showing respect and candor, Paul used this hearing as an opportunity to defend the gospel message about Christ. Signaling the commencement of his apologetic speech, “Paul stretched out his hand and began his defense” (26:1). The motion of his hand signified the official and reasoned nature of his defense.

Paul’s respect for Agrippa was evident and explicit. Paul addressed his royal audience as “King Agrippa” and said that he considered himself “fortunate” to make his defense before him on that day (26:2). Not mere words of flattery, Paul esteemed this authority figure and counted it an honor to have such a noble audience. Paul saw such a wide array of circumstances as opportunities for gospel witness. Further, Paul clarified that his defense was “against all the accusations of the Jews” (26:2). Paul made specific mention that Agrippa was “acquainted with the Jewish customs and controversies” (26:3). This appeal to Agrippa’s familiarity concerning the Jewish faith meant that whatever verdict Agrippa decided would be authoritative, compelling, and convincing to the wider public.

After this preamble to his speech, Paul said to Agrippa, “I beg you, therefore, to listen to me patiently” (26:3). Although Agrippa permitted Paul to speak his defense (cf. 26:1), Paul now appealed to Agrippa’s attentiveness to his forthcoming words. Paul spoke earnestly such that his words would be heard with a sober mind and a receptive heart. Paul’s concern was more than an appeal for a favorable verdict on his behalf. Paul wanted Agrippa to solemnly consider his words for the sake of Agrippa’s own salvation (cf. 26:29) and for the wider credibility of the gospel (26:25–26). A defense of the gospel that put aside his own concerns for safety, Paul launched his testimony of defense before his regal audience.

Biblical Principles

Public Defense. The opening of Paul’s speech explains the focus of his public address. Agrippa’s invitation to Paul—“speak for yourself” (26:1)—and Paul’s own admission—“to defend myself” (26:2; cf. 26:1)—clarify the intent of Paul’s speech. Specifically, this defense was “against all the accusations of the Jews” (26:2). Paul offered a claim that he was not guilty of wrongdoing, religious or criminal. But in defending his own blamelessness, Paul also offered a clarification of the Christian faith. Therefore, as an apologetic discourse, Paul made a case for his innocence and the gospel’s credibility before his royal audience. That Paul “stretched out his hand” (26:1) highlighted the formal, official, and intentional nature of his defense.

Not every believer is gifted in the same way as the Apostle Paul. Nor will all Christians be imprisoned for their faith or gain an audience before powerful religious and political leaders. Nevertheless, God still calls Christians to live lives of innocence (not perfection!) and to answer objections, accusations, and allegations against the Christian faith. Sometimes such defenses will take place in the casual setting of informal conversation (cf. 24:22–27), and other times they will be formal addresses in a public venue.

Respectful Address. The manner of Paul’s address is also instructive for us today. Showing respect and honor to a position of authority, Paul addressed Agrippa as “King Agrippa” (26:2). Paul approached his speech with sincerity and gratitude by expressing how “fortunate” (26:2) he was to speak before Agrippa. Additionally, Paul spoke because Agrippa had given him “permission to speak” (26:1). Being allowed to offer an oral defense, Paul requested that Agrippa listen to him “patiently” (26:3). Making a gospel defense in an honorable, earnest, courteous, and kind manner, Paul’s example enjoins us to make sure we approach the apologetic task with a similar godly attitude.

Receptivity. Paul’s appeal for Agrippa’s patience also highlights the difference between a receptive and a hostile listener. That Paul pleaded for Agrippa’s open ear and affirmed Agrippa’s familiarity with Judaism are further indications that Paul recognized that his words would only be effective if Agrippa was open to listening to and considering his defense. The opening of Paul’s speech teaches us that the greatest apologetic reasoning can only yield fruitful results if those listening are open and receptive to hearing the message. Conversely, a novice but earnest apologetic defense can be quite impactful with a receptive listener. Earlier, Agrippa voiced that he was a receptive listener, “I would like to hear this man myself” (25:22). It is possible to hear without listening; that is, without wanting to explore the credible logic and reasoning of the Christian faith, an audience is likely to remain unconvinced and unpersuaded. Prayer for a receptive spirit, attentiveness to a person’s life circumstances, and a kind and loving attitude are simple things we can do in hopes that those we encounter will want to hear an explanation of the Christian faith, a faith that centers on hope in God’s promises.

Here on Trial: Boldly Explaining Our Professed Hope

Biblical Narrative (Acts 26:4–8)

In the first part of Paul’s speech, he recounted his former life in Judaism (26:4–5) and his newfound hope as a Christian (26:6–8). The stark contrast between these seasons of life would prove to be evidence to validate the transforming power of the gospel. As Paul spoke about his Jewish heritage, he mentioned his longstanding life as a Jew: “the earliest days of my youth” (26:4). Highlighting the consistency and transparency of his Jewish ethic, Paul confidently asserted that “how [he] lived” was known by “all the Jews” and was observable by his “own people and in Jerusalem” (26:4). Paul’s longevity as an ardent Jew was so evident that others could bear witness to this “if they are willing” (26:5). Recalling the intensity of his Jewish commitment, Paul told how he “lived as a Pharisee, adhering to the strictest sect of [the Jewish] religion” (26:5). More than a brief phase in Paul’s life, Paul’s Jewish fervor was “known … for a long time” (26:5).

In contrast to his former commitment to Judaism, Paul experienced a dynamic and enduring change in his life. Paul’s phrase “now I stand on trial” (26:6) signaled that the only reason a longstanding ardent Jew would stand witness to Christianity before a Roman ruler was that there was something credible and convincing about the Christian faith. Importantly, Paul clarified the reason he was on trial. He said, “I stand on trial because of my hope in the promise that God made to our fathers” (26:6). The hope and promise of the gospel transformed Paul from a Pharisee to a Christ follower.

Rather than viewing Christianity as antithetical to Judaism, Paul described Christianity as the fulfillment of Judaism. The nature of his hope as a Christian was a fulfillment of promises God made to the Jewish “fathers” (26:6). The Christian message which transformed Paul could be traced back to promises which the “twelve tribes are hoping to realize” (26:7). Even true to Paul’s present experience, the Jews “earnestly serve God day and night” (26:7) in order to obtain these promises. Paul’s simple declaration was that the Christian message was a fulfillment of all of the Jewish hope—a Jewish hope with which Agrippa was not unfamiliar (cf. 26:3).

With pointed and focused words, Paul said that it was “because of this hope” that he was “accused by the Jews” (26:7). While the Jews accused Paul of defying Judaism, Paul made the claim that Christianity fulfilled the essence of Judaism. His trial was not because of wrongdoing or crime. He was on trial because of his faith in Christ as the culminating fulfillment of the ancient promises and Jewish hope. A core tenet of Paul’s argument was Christ’s resurrection. Paul had met this resurrected Christ on the road to Damascus and experienced a radical conversion (cf. 9:1–31). Speaking of Jesus’ resurrection, Paul established the claim that his hope was credible because Jesus rose from the dead. Employing a rhetorical question to prove this claim, Paul asked Agrippa, “Why would any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?” (26:8). His point was as follows: if God is truly all-powerful, he can raise the dead to life, and if Jesus Christ rose from the dead, hope in Jesus is the fulfillment of all of Judaism’s greatest promises.

Biblical Principles

Christian Hope. The central focus of Paul’s defense was the Christian hope. Regardless of other accusations that circulated around the apostle, Paul clearly expressed that he was on trial for his hope in the promises God made to the Israelites. God fulfilled his promises in Jesus, and now what the Jews hoped for with earnest worship of God, Paul experienced in fulfillment. The threefold repetition of hope (26:6, 7 [2x]) focused the subject of Paul’s defense: defending his excitement and confidence that God has fulfilled his promise in Jesus. In the sense that the Christian faith is based upon God’s good promises, apologetics is a defense of hope. More than a rational argument, intellectual debate, or feud with words, gospel defense gives credible reasons for great hope and confident expectations that define the lives of Christ’s followers.

Public Truth. Paul reinforced the essence of his Christian hope by reminding Agrippa of his life in Judaism. Paul’s claim to a Christ-centered hope was not anti-Jewish, but a fulfillment of all that Judaism had hoped for. Paul’s retelling of his strict piety in Judaism lent greater evidence to the fact that his hope in Christ was legitimate. Importantly, as Paul recalled his former life in Judaism (cf. 26:4–5), he emphasized how his piety was known among the Jews for a long period of time. In a move of apologetic genius, Paul called upon the testimony of others to validate his own case. Following Paul’s example, we too can allow public affirmations of widely accepted truth to be an entryway—a connection point—that leads to a fruitful gospel defense. In some real sense, the gospel is credible because it comports with what people generally know to be true. This is not to say that our presentation of the gospel bends to the misguided beliefs of surrounding culture. Rather, it is a claim that people (even those who do not believe in Christ) can add to the reliability of the Christian hope through their testimony of things that are obvious, objective, and observable. Some of the best testimony for gospel defense is when people acknowledge the undeniable change that the gospel brings in the lives of others.

Resurrection. The reason the Christian hope is so strong and sturdy is because of the central belief in Jesus’ resurrection. Not only is the resurrection a vital doctrine of the faith, but it is also a powerful defense of Christianity. In his speech to Agrippa, Paul acknowledged that the resurrection is the foundation of Christian hope (26:8). Essentially, he claimed that if God could raise Jesus from the dead, then he was able to fulfill all of his promises to his people. The resurrection of Jesus may seem like the most audacious claim of Christianity, but it is one of the most important defenses of the Christian faith. When the evidence is gathered, the general testimony of human history and the most logical explanation of Jesus’ post-crucifixion existence is that Jesus rose again from the dead. If Jesus rose again from the dead—a feat only accredited to divine power—there is a truthfulness to the claims of Jesus’ identity and the Christian faith. Although much more can (and needs to) be said about this claim, it is important to note that Christians need not only to explain the resurrection, but also to use the credibility, plausibility, probability, and historicity of the resurrection as Christianity’s great defense.

And I Did So: Sharing Your Personal Testimony

Biblical Narrative (Acts 26:9–18)

In the next part of his apologetic speech, Paul vividly described his life prior to becoming a Christian. He told Agrippa that he “was convinced that [he] ought to do all [he] could to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth” (26:9). Notably, Paul described his early disapproval of Christians as an opposition to Jesus. Originally, Paul’s fervent commitment to the Jewish faith moved him to vehemently persecute Jesus’ followers. Upon receiving permission from Jewish leaders, Paul “put many of the saints in prison” (26:10). Paul’s opposition to Christianity did not stop with the imprisonment of Christians. Paul explained to Agrippa the extent of his Pharisaic zeal: “When [believers] were condemned to death, I cast my vote against them” (26:10). So insidious was Paul’s former life that he punished believers in the synagogues and “tried to make them blaspheme” (26:11). Paul was so set against Christians that he pursued them. Paul explained that he felt “raging fury” against Christians such that he “even went to foreign cities to persecute them” (26:11).

Paul reiterated that he persecuted Christians with the approval of Jewish religious authorities (26:12; cf. 26:10). Paul was no renegade who acted on the fringe of the Jewish traditions. For these Jews, Paul was an official representative of Judaism and also their sharpened instrument to extinguish the Christian faith. But all of this changed when Paul encountered Jesus, the very one he was persecuting (26:13). One day, while Paul was traveling to Damascus to persecute Christians (26:12), Paul saw “a light from heaven” (26:13). This light was “brighter than the sun,” and it was “shining around” Paul and those traveling with him (26:13). Recognizing this was some sort of divine encounter, Paul (and his companions) fell to the ground (26:14).

At this time, Paul heard a voice speaking to him in Hebrew (26:14). The voice asked Paul (at that time called Saul) why he was persecuting him (26:14). Again, this reiterated the fact that Paul’s vehemence against Christians was an attack against Jesus (cf. 26:9, 15). The visionary voice told Paul that “it is hard for you to kick against the goads” (26:14). This proverbial statement confronted Paul for defying God’s plan. Ironically, Paul was claiming to earnestly serve God by persecuting Christians. In reality, he was opposing God.

When Paul asked the speaker to identify himself, the voice responded, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting” (26:15). Having revealed himself to his persecutor, Jesus told Paul that he appeared to Paul for a specific purpose: “to appoint you as a servant and as a witness” (26:16). In this way, Jesus dramatically confronted one of his hostile enemies and commissioned him as his advocate and representative. Specifically, Paul was to be a witness to the things he had seen, the transformation he experienced, and the revelation of Jesus Christ—“what you have seen from Me and what I will show you” (26:16).

In this vision, Jesus told Paul that he would protect him from the people he would minister to, both Jews and Gentiles (26:17). Paul’s newfound mission would entail preaching the gospel to the lost. This work of preaching would “open their eyes” (26:18) to come to know the truth. Upon hearing the gospel preached, people would “turn from darkness to light” and turn “from the power of Satan to God” (26:18). Those who genuinely repented of their former ways would “receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those sanctified by faith in [Jesus]” (26:18). Transformed from an ardent Jew who opposed Jesus and his people to a passionate proclaimer of the Christian message, Paul was saved from his life of sin and employed to Jesus’ service.

Biblical Principles

Personal Testimony. This narrative retelling of Paul’s conversion (and commission) served as a vital part of Paul’s apologetic defense. In the testimony portion of his speech, Paul recounted the wickedness of his former life (26:9–11), his life-transforming encounter with Christ (26:12–15), the realization and conviction of his sin (26:14–15), and his calling to a missional purpose (26:16–18). As more than a mere ornament to a rhetorical flourish, Paul retold his testimony as a means of validating the credibility of his gospel ministry and message. The story of Paul’s life transformation—a dramatic change from opposing Christianity to advocating for the faith he once persecuted—not only added a personal dimension to his speech, but it also served Paul’s defense of the gospel.

Indeed, one’s testimony is a powerful aid in evangelistic work and apologetic defense. Testimony personalizes the interaction with our audience. Narratives of personal conversion also bear witness to an enduring life change brought about by the message we are defending. Far more than a removed and dispassionate articulation of religious tenets or reliable facts, gospel defense is a personally meaningful witness of a truth that one has appropriated into life. Said another way, Christians defend that which saved them. Although such a narrative may not “convince” a skeptic, it roots the claims of the gospel in the historic and verifiable reality of a transformed life.

Paul’s Purpose. Within Paul’s testimony, he recorded his global commission from Jesus. In this commission, Jesus appointed Paul “as a servant and as a witness” (26:16). Paul’s duty as a servant-witness was to bear testimony about Jesus, both “what you have seen from Me and what I will show you” (26:16). As Paul bore witness to Jesus, Jesus promised to protect him from his audience. Articulating the nature of his deployment, Jesus said that he sent Paul to people in order to “open their eyes” (26:18). Paul’s work was to help people clearly understand the gospel message, so that they would repent of their sin, accept God’s gracious pardon, and enter into the people of God (26:18).

Although we have not received a commission identical to Paul’s, the essence of the commission remains binding for us today. The work of gospel witness is to clearly present the gospel to others so that they will see and receive the message in faith. The related work of gospel defense involves removing any obstructions in the way of faith. While this does not entail a dilution of the message to make it more palatable, this work of apologetic defense does involve addressing major barriers that keep people distant from the Christian faith. To the extent that “open eyes” allow one to move faithfully toward God, light, forgiveness, and sanctification, apologetics removes obstacles that might obscure or obstruct this path. Apologetic work aims to present the unobstructed and undiluted gospel message in all its purity, beauty, and saving glory.

Saying Nothing But Christ: Announcing the Gospel Message

Biblical Narrative (Acts 26:19–23)

Having retold the story of his dramatic Christ encounter, Paul expressed to Agrippa that he was “not disobedient to the heavenly vision” (26:19). Paul not only became loyal to Christ, but he also became a messenger of Christ. Speaking to Jews and Gentiles in many different places, Paul told people that “they should repent and turn to God” (26:20). Inviting them to follow his own example, Paul told people to perform “deeds worthy of their repentance” (26:20). Following Jesus’ command, Paul told people that they could receive the forgiveness of sins by faith (26:18) and repentance (26:18, 20).

In an ironic turn, Paul experienced persecution for his gospel preaching ministry. Although his former zeal amounted to persecution of Christians, now Paul was experiencing persecution as a Christian. Clarifying the reason for his trial, Paul told Agrippa that his gospel preaching was the reason for his arrest and attack (26:21). Paul was not guilty of violations regarding civic, criminal, or Jewish law. He was on trial for preaching the gospel message to others. The persecution Paul experienced, however, did not deter him from continuing to share the gospel. Paul’s very speech to Agrippa proved this. Paul had great confidence to continue sharing the gospel because he had “God’s help” (26:22).

Paul was unbiased in his gospel ministry. He was a witness of Jesus “to small and great alike” (26:22). Paul did not rely upon his intellectual skills, nor did he invent his own message. On the contrary, Paul’s message was simple and pure: he said “nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen” (26:22). Adding clarity and credibility to his message, this statement by Paul showed the integrity of the gospel by highlighting its fulfillment of Jewish promise (26:22). Summarizing the basic content of the gospel, Paul explained that Christ suffered, died, and rose again from the dead (26:23). Through this work, Jesus accomplished salvation for sinners, bringing them from darkness, evil, and death to light, holiness, and life. So important was this message that Jesus preached it to all people, Jew and Gentile (26:23).

Biblical Principles

Salvation Message. In this part of the speech, Paul’s articulation of the gospel was succinct yet powerful. He narrated that Jesus suffered and was resurrected, fulfilling God’s promises to the prophets (26:22–23). Paul’s work of gospel witness and gospel defense straddled many different places and ethnicities (26:20; cf. 26:17). So committed was Paul to gospel purity that his ministry involved “nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen” (26:22). Paul’s witness and apologetic defense centered around the message of God’s saving work fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The centrality of Jesus’ work—his life, suffering, death, resurrection, and return—should remain the core message of our work. All apologetic speech should aim to lead people to the fact that the gospel is worth everyone’s sincere consideration. No other message than the gospel offers a final remedy for sin. That God would send his Son into the broken world to endure and conquer suffering is the unique answer to people’s deepest longings and concerns. Any objections to the faith are surface issues to the deeper problem of human sin, a problem that only Jesus’ death and resurrection can resolve. Therefore, not only should gospel defense lead people to reflect deeply upon the gospel, but the gospel itself—clearly communicated—is one of its own great defenses.

Suffering. Paul’s gospel ministry caused him to experience many difficult and painful moments. Speaking to Agrippa about the gospel, Paul recounted his life-threatening arrest: “The Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me” (26:21). Paul’s willingness to endure suffering was because of his unwillingness to be “disobedient to the heavenly vision” (26:19; cf. 26:12–18). Not relying on his own strength, Paul confessed that he “had God’s help to this day” (26:22). Paul was strengthened and sustained by divine protection (cf. 26:17). Endurance of hardship is a powerful testimony of gospel witness and an unexpected defense of the Christian faith. Willingness to suffer persecution, opposition, rejection, and difficulty, while still maintaining one’s faith in Christ, is compelling to those exploring the faith. What such endurance and perseverance provide is an experiential logic that the gospel message is a true and rational word.

True and Rational Words: Explaining Our Reasonable Faith

Biblical Narrative (Acts 26:24–29)

As Paul presented his testimony and the gospel before Agrippa, Festus responded to Paul “in a loud voice” (26:24). Expressing his objection to the gospel and his perplexity over Paul, Festus questioned whether Paul was “insane” or whether his “great learning” was “driving [him] to madness” (26:24). While acknowledging Paul’s competence gave credibility to the gospel message, Festus’ admission also exposed his resistance to receiving the message. No longer could Festus reject the gospel because of any error on Paul’s account. Having heard Paul’s testimony and appeal, Festus, Agrippa, and Bernice now had to decide whether they would accept or reject the gospel.

Paul responded to Festus respectfully—“most excellent Festus” (26:25)—by saying that he was not insane. Quite the opposite: Paul claimed that he was speaking “words of truth and sobriety” (26:25). In a wise and perceptive move, Paul appealed to Agrippa’s own knowledge to demonstrate the credibility of the gospel. Paul claimed that “the king knows about these matters” (26:26; cf. 26:3–4). Paul spoke “freely” (26:26) because the gospel events and his testimony of transformation actually occurred in history. Paul explained that “none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner” (26:26). Agrippa’s familiarity with Jewish teaching, Paul’s renown as a Jew, and the historicity of the events amounted to a compelling case in favor of the Christian message (and Paul’s innocence).

At this time, Paul gave a personal appeal. He asked Agrippa a rhetorical question—“Do you believe the prophets?”—following his inquiry with the affirmative, “I know you do” (26:27). Paul’s speech was seasoned with an invitational appeal, and Agrippa asked Paul if he thought that he could persuade him to be a Christian in such a short period of time (26:28). In a heartfelt and memorable climax to the speech, Paul answered, “Short time or long … I wish to God that not only you but all who hear me this day may become what I am, except for these chains” (26:29). In essence, Paul hoped that God would make Agrippa a Christian but would spare him of the kind of suffering Paul experienced. As an exemplary apologist, Paul’s reasoned arguments, bold declarations, and persuasive rhetoric were tempered by a sincere compassion.

Biblical Principles

Credible. Paul’s interaction with Agrippa records a fascinating interchange of apologetic witness. In particular, this conversation provides insight into the aims of gospel defense. At this point, it became clear that Paul’s speech not only sought to defend his innocence but to showcase the integrity and credibility of the gospel. What Paul was saying in his “defense” (26:24) was ultimately a case Paul was making for “words of truth and sobriety” (26:25). Essentially, the gospel was true and rational. The defense was based upon publicly verifiable things —“it was not done in a corner” (26:26). In fact, Paul asserted that the king himself knew about these things, and they did not happen unnoticed (26:26). The essential teachings of the faith were based on historical realities that took place in a public way. The historicity of the events that undergirded the claims of the Christian faith made tenets of the faith credible and believable. Rooted in history and verifiable before humanity, Christianity was a reasonable faith. Because of the historic and observable nature of Paul’s evidence, he could speak boldly (26:26).

Apologetic witness is a bold and open declaration of the reasonable foundations of the Christian faith. Certainly, many things cannot be fully understood. The gospel is filled with profound mysteries that only God fully knows. But the mysteries of the faith do not mean that the core foundations of the gospel are incoherent or illogical. God does not require people to abandon their God-given abilities of reason in order to become a Christian. While idolizing human reason is certain to obstruct the path to faith in Christ, sincere faith in Christ does not involve a dispossession of rationality. Faith, being the primary way someone becomes a Christian, is validated by the voice of reason. Clearly a message of divine origin, the gospel is a coherent and consistent message that culminates in the coming of Jesus. In fact, the reasonableness of the faith—its historicity, coherence, and verifiability—should embolden believers to share the faith. We need not be timid about sharing and defending the gospel. The claims of Christ represent a true and rational faith.

Response. When Paul spoke with his audience, he gave an appeal and invitation for a response. Clearly articulating the gospel meant calling people to repentance (26:18, 20) and to faith (26:27–29). Paul was certainly interested in persuading Agrippa (26:28) to become a Christian: he was unembarrassed about this desire (26:29). In fact, Paul not only asked Agrippa if he believed the prophets, but made a strong suggestion that he did believe (26:27). Paul’s unfading yearning for the conversion of the lost meant his gospel witness and defense aimed to win converts rather than to win arguments. However bold Paul was in this work, he spoke in such a way that resulted in an honest response to the gospel. The boldness of our gospel proclamation and our open defense of its reasonableness should be seasoned with a loving compassion to see people come to faith in Christ.

Nothing Evil to Say About Us: Gaining Credibility through Public Witness

Biblical Narrative (Acts 26:30–32)

After Paul’s speech, the group of leaders—Agrippa, Festus, Bernice, and others—gathered to discuss Paul’s case. In the semi-privacy of this gathering, they considered the matter with candor and honesty. They concluded that Paul had “done nothing worthy of death or imprisonment” (26:31). Having the final words of this narrative, Agrippa himself asserted Paul’s innocence: “This man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar” (26:32). A statement which vouched for Paul’s integrity and endorsed (even if he did not intend to) the content of the gospel message, Agrippa’s statement became a testimony of the credibility of the Christian faith. Amazingly, Paul had so reasoned his case before this royal assembly that they became witnesses in his favor.

Biblical Principles

Endorsement. In response to Paul’s defense, Festus acknowledged Paul’s great learning (26:24), Agrippa entertained Paul’s appeal (26:28), and an official gathering (Festus, Agrippa, Bernice, and others) acquitted Paul of wrongdoing (26:31). This is quite an impressive outcome for Paul’s seemingly dire circumstances. Such a response was even more evidence that God came through on his promises to deliver his chosen apostle (26:17). Amazing, Paul spoke in a way that allowed his audience to come to a conclusion on their own terms. Their verdict represented a public vindication of Paul’s innocence and a powerful statement of the gospel’s credibility. Knowing the veracity of the gospel ourselves, Christian apologists speak in such a way that their accusers or interlocutors give a verdict of Christianity similar to Paul’s verdict: we have nothing evil against them.

Opportunity. Paul was declared innocent of wrongdoing, but he remained imprisoned (26:31). Paul’s continued imprisonment would lead to more opportunities to share the gospel. When imprisoned, the gospel spreads. When attacked, the gospel endures. When challenged, the gospel proves its truthfulness. When put on trial, the gospel vindicates its credibility. As Christians, any unfortunate and difficult circumstances we endure can become God-appointed platforms to bear witness to Christ and offer a compelling defense of the gospel’s credibility. Although we may lead a blameless life and speak the gospel with convincing clarity, we will still receive unjust treatment. Rather than viewing this unjust treatment as a personal discomfort or a ministry impediment, we should (like Paul) view these difficult circumstances as unexpected opportunities to continue our evangelistic apologetic efforts. Such a perspective can encourage, empower, and equip all disciples to embrace the work of gospel defense as a part of their duty of gospel witness.

Conclusion

Part of the great and important work of gospel witness is gospel defense. Having gained an audience before King Agrippa, Paul offered a respectful and sincere case for his innocence and the gospel’s credibility. Paul’s defense speech was an articulation of Christian hope. The apostle clarified his hope by narrating his personal testimony, clearly presenting the gospel message, and making an appeal for King Agrippa to respond in faith. In the end, Agrippa’s response validated Paul’s ministry and the gospel message.

Many people remain distant from the gospel. While Christians cannot control a person’s response, we can communicate the gospel in a way that demonstrates the message’s credibility and reasonableness. Apologetics is this work. God calls Christians to make a (sometimes public) defense of the Christian faith by answering the objections of skeptics, addressing the doubts of the interested, and affirming the belief of the faithful. Armed with our personal testimony, the gospel message, the nature of Christian hope, and other evidence that establishes the veracity of Christianity, Christians can boldly, respectfully, and passionately follow the steps of Paul in standing trial for the gospel’s defense.

Session Synopsis

SESSION 11 SYNOPSIS
Defending the Faith	In this passage, we learn about the important work of defending the faith. In this narrative, Paul was a prisoner, standing trial for his faith and preaching the gospel of Jesus. After Paul stood before many audiences offering his defense, he eventually stood before King Agrippa. Paul gave a speech in which he defended the gospel and validated his innocence. He reviewed his previous life in Judaism, his persecution of Christians, and his dramatic conversion to the faith. Paul told Agrippa that his preaching was an act of obedience to what God had commissioned him to do. Agrippa thought he was speaking out of madness, but Paul assured him that his testimony was credible and reasonable. Paul expressed his desire that Agrippa come to faith in Christ. In the end, Paul was declared innocent of wrongdoing but could not be released because he appealed to Caesar. A summary of this story’s principles is outlined below.
Christian Apologetics and Gospel Defense	Christian apologetics seeks to offer a defense of the faith to show its credibility and reasonableness. Christians are called to preach the gospel and offer a defense of the credibility of the faith (26:1–2). This defense of the faith can take place in public or private. It can be done with words (26:1–29) and actions (26:2, 30–32). Christians should view all situations as potential opportunities for gospel proclamation and defense (26:1–2, 31–32).
Centrality of the Gospel	Disciples are servants of God and witnesses of the gospel (26:16) to bring a message of good news so people come to receive salvation (26:18). The simple proclamation of the gospel message is one of its best defenses (26:18, 20–23). A gospel defense should seek to persuade people to evaluate the evidence for the Christian faith and call people to respond to the gospel (26:28–29) in repentance (26:18, 20) and faith (26:27–29). Without humble receptivity (25:22; 26:27–29), people can hear the claims of the faith, but will not respond. No one can be merely convinced or reasoned into believing. The defense of the faith truly reaches those whose hearts are open to receive its message.
Gospel Hope	Paul was on trial for his hope in Christ. Christians should live and speak in a way that demonstrates our hope (26:6–7). Our hope in Christ should cause people to be interested in our faith. Defense of the faith should be respectful (26:1–3), bold (26:26), and persuasive (26:28–29).
Personal Testimony	A person’s personal testimony is a powerful gospel witness and gospel defense. A testimony can narrate the wickedness of one’s former life (26:9–11), the life-altering encounter with Christ (26:12–15), conviction of his sin (26:14–15), and call to serve God (26:16–18).
The Faith Is True, Historical, Credible, and Reasonable	The teachings of the Christian faith are based upon historical events. These events took place in public and have been attested to by many witnesses. Christianity is historically accurate and credible (26:4–5, 22, 29). The Christian faith is true, reasonable, credible, verifiable, and attested (26:24–26).
Suffering and Endurance	Faithfulness to God’s work of gospel proclamation (26:19; cf. 26:12–18) will bring about suffering and opposition. Endurance of suffering and being sustained by God’s help (26:17, 21–22) are testimonies and defenses of the gospel.
Resurrection of Christ	The resurrection of Jesus is one of the best defenses of the Christian faith (26:8). It may be one of the more challenging teachings of the faith, but it has historical and biblical evidence that makes it credible.

Personal Reflection: Entering the Story

Apply the Text: The word of God is binding and authoritative, the only reliable guide for faith and godliness. True disciples submit themselves to God’s word. In this movement, you will apply God’s word to your lives.

Reflection Questions

Encourage one person to share a testimony about how this story has impacted them so far. Use the reflection questions to examine your life in light of this biblical passage.

Spiritual Practice

Gospel Defense

Reflect on Paul’s work of gospel witness and gospel defense in this biblical narrative. Identify the accusations and questions that people have against Christians and Christianity. Craft a response that would address these concerns in a way that keeps the gospel central to your defense.

Ministry Practice: Rehearsing the Script

Minister the Text: God’s word is living and active. Through God’s word, the Christian community is edified. In this movement, you will utilize the biblical passage to minister to other believers and build them up in their faith.

Application Questions

Look at the infographic below. Use the questions to think about how to minister this text to other believers.

Missional Outreach: Publicizing the Truth

Witness the Text: The Bible is a message of God’s gracious salvation to the world. In word and deed, God’s people proclaim the good news of the gospel. In this movement, you will use this biblical passage to reach out to unbelievers.

Strategy Questions

Reflect on the infographic below. Consider how you can use this passage to witness to the surrounding world. Use the suggested ideas to prime your imagination. Then, put together a plan to share this passage with unbelievers, Afterward, reflect on this mission experience.