Acts 26:1

Thou art permitted (epitrepetai soi). Literally, It is permitted thee. As if Agrippa were master of ceremonies instead of Festus. Agrippa as a king and guest presides at the grand display while Festus has simply introduced Paul. For thyself (uper seautou). Some MSS. have peri (concerning). Paul is allowed to speak in his own behalf. No charges are made against him. In fact, Festus has admitted that he has no real proof of any charges. Stretched forth his hand (ekteina thn ceira). Dramatic oratorical gesture (not for silence as in 2 Peter 12:17 ; 2 Peter 13:16 ) with the chain still upon it (verse 2 Peter 26:29 ) linking him to the guard. First aorist active participle of ekteinw, to stretch out. Made his defence (apelogeito). Inchoative imperfect of apologeomai (middle), "began to make his defence." This is the fullest of all Paul's defences. He has no word of censure of his enemies or of resentment, but seizes the opportunity to preach Christ to such a distinguished company which he does with "singular dignity" (Furneaux). He is now bearing the name of Christ "before kings" ( Acts 9:15 ). In general Paul follows the line of argument of the speech on the stairs (chapter Acts 22:1 ff.).