Paul Before Agrippa (Acts 25-26)

Just when Paul thought his wait was over and that he was to be sent to Rome to be heard by Caesar; he was made to wait some more and even have a hearing before King Herod Agrippa II, because Festus wanted Agrippa's help in writing the charges to be sent to Rome since Herod was considered by the Romans to be an authority on the Jewish religion.   So, Paul just utilized this as yet another opportunity to defend the faith, and thus gave his fifth of six defenses.   This also fulfilled his calling to "proclaim [Christ's] name to ...kings" as foretold at his conversion in Acts 9:15.

In his defense, similar to the one to the Jewish crowd at the temple, Paul established common ground and identified with Herod on Jewish customs, beliefs, background, and persecution of saints formerly.   He also focused on the hope in the RESURRECTION as the reason for why he was really on trial; for, as indicated by Festus, there was no evidence to support any of the other charges against him related to Roman law.  Paul then continued by recounting his conversion experience and his calling; and detailed what salvation involves:  opening of eyes, turning from darkness to light and from power of Satan to God, receiving forgiveness of sin and inheritance, and sanctification by faith.

When accused by Festus of going insane, he said that the gospel message is TRUE (consistent with reality) and REASONABLE (able to be tested and substantiated with evidence).    He even challenged Agrippa to respond by acknowledging that Christ has fulfilled Scriptural prophecies of the Messiah and that HIS death and resurrection were "not done in a corner" (i.e. known historical events).   Agrippa, however, turned from the opportunity to become a Christian; despite Paul's display of his heart and compassion for all those who were listening.  Not wanting to hear any more Herod rose and left; though, admitted to Festus that Paul was innocent and hasn't done "anything that deserves death or imprisonment".

Sometimes I feel like a permanent resident in God's waiting room.   Like Paul, when there are times I had hope that the wait might finally come to an end; I find that it's not to be, and that I still have to wait longer.  Yet, this passage clearly showed me, that I need to look for opportunities that God can use me while I am waiting - and that there is a purpose and reason for the waiting.   May I be patient, and more than that, may I be a useful vessel for HIM and fulfill His Plans in my life.