Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Acts 26:3

"especially because thou art expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently." — Acts 26:3 (ASV)

This was just the kind of situation Paul had longed for during two bleak years in prison—namely, a knowledgeable judge and a not inherently antagonistic audience before whom he could not only make his defense but also proclaim his message. Therefore he began with unusual fervor, expressing appreciation for the opportunity of speaking, complimenting the judge, and asking for patience in hearing him out. Since Festus had already said that Paul had not committed a capital crime (cf. 25:25), Paul chose to defend himself only against the charge that he had transgressed against Judaism.