Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 26:2

"I think myself happy, king Agrippa, that I am to make my defense before thee this day touching all the things whereof I am accused by the Jews:" — Acts 26:2 (ASV)

I think myself happy. I consider it a favor and a privilege to be permitted to make my defense before one acquainted with Jewish customs and opinions. His defense, on former occasions, had been before Roman magistrates, who had little acquaintance with the opinions and customs of the Jews, who were not disposed to listen to the discussion of the points of difference between him and them, and who looked upon all their controversies with contempt.

See Acts 24 and Acts 25. They were, therefore, little qualified to decide a question which was closely connected with Jewish customs and doctrines; and Paul now rejoiced to know that he was before one who, from his acquaintance with Jewish customs and belief, would be able to appreciate his arguments and motives.

Paul was not now on his trial; but he was to defend himself, or state his cause, so that Agrippa might be able to aid Festus in transmitting a true account of the case to the Roman emperor. It was his interest and duty, therefore, to defend himself as well as possible; and to put Agrippa in possession of all the facts in the case. His defense is, consequently, made up chiefly of a most eloquent statement of the facts just as they had occurred.

I shall answer. I shall be permitted to make a statement, or to defend myself.

Touching, etc. Respecting.

Whereof I am accused of the Jews. By the Jews. The matters of the accusation were—his being a mover of sedition, a ringleader of the Christians, and a profaner of the temple (Acts 24:5–6).