Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Acts 26:29

"And Paul [said], I would to God, that whether with little or with much, not thou only, but also all that hear me this day, might become such as I am, except these bonds." — Acts 26:29 (ASV)

Addressing the king with extreme politeness and taking up Agrippa’s own word “short time,” Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am.” Undoubtedly he spoke with evangelistic fervor, directing his appeal not only to the king but also to the other dignitaries. Then in a lighter vein, recognizing the apparent incongruity of appealing for their acceptance of spiritual freedom while he himself stood chained before them, he raised his hands and added, “except for these chains.”