John Calvin 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)

We have explained for what purpose Paul was brought before that assembly, namely, so that Festus might write to Caesar as he would be counseled by Agrippa and the rest. Therefore, Paul does not use any plain or usual form of defense, but rather applies his speech to doctrine.

Luke indeed uses a word implying defense; yet it is one that is not at all unsuitable whenever an account of doctrine is given. Furthermore, because Paul knew well that Festus cared little for all that would be taken from the Law and Prophets, he turns to the king, whom he hoped would be more attentive, since he was no stranger to the Jewish religion.

And because Paul had until now spoken to deaf men, he now rejoices that he has found a man who, due to his skill and experience, can judge correctly. But just as he commends the skill and knowledge in Agrippa, because he is a lawful judge in those matters about which he is to speak, so, on the other hand, Paul asks him to hear him patiently; for otherwise, contempt and aversion would have been less excusable in Agrippa.

He calls those points of doctrine 'questions,' which were handled among the scribes, who were accustomed to discussing religion more subtly. By the word customs, he means those rites that were common to the whole nation. Therefore, the sum is this: King Agrippa was not ignorant either of doctrine or of the ceremonies of the Law.

What he introduces or concludes with, "Therefore, I beg you to hear me patiently" (as I said just now), signifies that the more expert a man is in Scripture, the more attentive he must be when the issue concerns religion. For what we understand does not trouble us so much.

And it is fitting that we are so careful about the worship of God, that it does not trouble us to hear those things that pertain to its definition, and especially when we have learned the principle, so that we may judge readily, if we wish to pay attention.