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Agrippa said to Paul, "You may speak for yourself." Then Paul stretched out his hand, and made his defense.

Verse Takeaways

1

A Chained Hand, An Unchained Gospel

Commentators highlight the powerful image of Paul stretching out his hand to speak. This was a common gesture for orators, but Paul's hand was chained to a Roman guard. This visual contrast underscores a key theme: though physically imprisoned, Paul was spiritually free and bold, seizing every opportunity to proclaim the unchained message of Christ.

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Book Overview

Acts

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Commentaries

8

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Acts 26:1

18th Century

Theologian

CHAPTER 26

Then Paul stretched forth the hand. See Barnes on Acts 21:40.

This was the usual posture of orators or public spe…

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On Acts 26:1

Thou art permitted (επιτρεπετα σο). Literally, It is permitted thee. As if Agrippa were master of ceremonies instead of Festus. Ag…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Acts 26:1

19th Century

Bishop

Then Paul stretched forth the hand.—The characteristic attitude reminds us of Acts 21:40. Here it acquires a fresh pictorial vividness fro…

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Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Acts 26:1–3

19th Century

Preacher

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself: I think mys…

Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On Acts 26:1

At Agrippa’s invitation to speak for himself, Paul, though manacled by chains (v.29), motioned with his hand for attention (cf. 21:40) and began sp…

John Gill

John Gill

On Acts 26:1

17th Century

Pastor

Then Agrippa said to Paul
After Festus had made the above speech to him, and to all present, and had introduced the a…

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Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Acts 26:1–11

17th Century

Minister

Christianity teaches us to give a reason of the hope that is in us, and also to give honour to whom honour is due, without flattery or fear of man.…