Acts 25-26 “Courageous Witness: How to Defend Your Faith Like Paul

Text: Acts 25-26

Introduction

Have you ever been put on the spot about your faith? Maybe it was a conversation at work, a question from a friend, or even a challenge from someone who disagrees with Christianity. In those moments, it’s easy to feel nervous or unsure. But in Acts 25 and 26, we see the apostle Paul standing before some of the most powerful people of his day—Governor Festus and King Agrippa—defending his faith with courage and clarity.

Paul’s example shows us how to be courageous witnesses for Jesus, even when the pressure is on. Let’s look at how Paul defended his faith, and how we can do the same.

Main Idea: Courageously share your faith story and the gospel, trusting God to use your witness just as He used Paul’s.

Context and Background

Acts 25–26 records Paul’s defense before the Roman governor Festus and King Agrippa II. Paul has been imprisoned for two years in Caesarea after being falsely accused by Jewish leaders of stirring up trouble and desecrating the temple (Acts 24:5–6). Festus, the new governor, inherits Paul’s case and, seeking to please the Jews, asks Paul if he will stand trial in Jerusalem. Paul, knowing this would be a death sentence, appeals to Caesar (Acts 25:10–12).

Before sending Paul to Rome, Festus consults King Agrippa II, who is familiar with Jewish customs and controversies. Agrippa expresses interest in hearing Paul himself (Acts 25:22).

1. Paul Before Festus (Acts 25:1–12)

- Festus, newly appointed, travels to Jerusalem. Jewish leaders immediately press charges against Paul, seeking to have him transferred to Jerusalem (so they can ambush and kill him).

- Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, asks Paul if he will go to Jerusalem. Paul appeals to Caesar, exercising his right as a Roman citizen.

2. Festus Consults King Agrippa (Acts 25:13–27)

- Festus explains Paul’s case to Agrippa, admitting he is puzzled by the charges, which center on “disputes about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive” (Acts 25:19, ESV).

- Agrippa agrees to hear Paul.

3. Paul’s Defense Before Agrippa (Acts 26:1–32)

- Opening Respect (vv. 1–3): Paul respectfully addresses Agrippa, acknowledging his expertise in Jewish matters.

- Personal Testimony (vv. 4–18): Paul recounts his strict Pharisaic upbringing, his persecution of Christians, and his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus. He describes Jesus’ commission to him: to open eyes, turn people from darkness to light, and from Satan to God (v. 18).

- Faithfulness to the Gospel (vv. 19–23): Paul insists he has been obedient to the heavenly vision, preaching repentance and faith in Christ to Jews and Gentiles alike. He roots his message in the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises (v. 22–23).

- Festus’ Interruption (v. 24): Festus accuses Paul of being insane. Paul responds calmly, affirming the truth and reasonableness of his words.

- Appeal to Agrippa (vv. 26–29): Paul directly asks Agrippa if he believes the prophets, then expresses his desire for all present to become Christians.

- Verdict (vv. 30–32): Agrippa and Festus agree Paul has done nothing deserving death or imprisonment. Agrippa says, “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

1. Share Your Story with Honesty and Clarity

(Acts 26:4–23)

Paul begins his defense by telling his story. He talks about his upbringing as a strict Pharisee, his opposition to Jesus, and how he persecuted Christians. Then he describes his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus—a moment that changed everything.

Paul doesn’t hide his past or pretend to be perfect. He’s honest about who he was and how Jesus transformed him. He shares his story with clarity, not confusion.

Application:

You have a story, too. If you know Jesus, you have a “before” and “after.” You don’t have to have a dramatic testimony—just be honest about what Jesus has done in your life. People can argue with your beliefs, but they can’t argue with your story. As 1 Peter 3:15 says, “Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.”

2. Keep the Focus on Jesus and the Gospel

(Acts 26:22–23)

Paul could have spent his time defending himself or arguing about politics, but he doesn’t. He keeps the focus on Jesus—His death, resurrection, and the call to repentance and faith. Paul says, “I stand here testifying both to small and great… that the Christ must suffer and… be the first to rise from the dead, and… proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.”

Application:

When you’re defending your faith, don’t get sidetracked by secondary issues. Bring the conversation back to Jesus. The gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). Our goal isn’t to win arguments, but to point people to Christ.

3. Speak with Respect and Gentleness

(Acts 26:2–3, 25)

Paul addresses Festus and Agrippa with respect, even when Festus interrupts and calls him crazy. Paul replies, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words.” He doesn’t get angry or defensive. He speaks with gentleness and respect.

Application:

When you defend your faith, do it with humility and kindness. Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” People may not agree with you, but they should see Christ’s love in the way you speak.

4. Trust God with the Results

(Acts 26:28–29)

After Paul shares the gospel, King Agrippa says, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” Paul responds, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.”

Paul longs for Agrippa and everyone listening to come to faith, but he doesn’t pressure or manipulate. He leaves the results in God’s hands.

Application:

Our job is to be faithful witnesses. God is the one who changes hearts. As 1 Corinthians 3:6–7 says, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” Share the truth, pray for those who hear, and trust God to do what only He can do.

5. Expect Opposition, but Don’t Lose Heart

(Acts 25:7, 24; 26:24)

Paul faces false accusations, ridicule, and misunderstanding. The Jewish leaders accuse him of crimes he didn’t commit. Festus calls him insane. But Paul doesn’t let opposition silence him or shake his faith.

Application:

When you defend your faith, expect pushback. Jesus said, “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you… on my account” (Matthew 5:11). Don’t be discouraged. God is with you, and He uses your witness—even in adversity.

Conclusion

Paul’s courageous witness before kings is a model for us. You don’t need to be a Bible scholar to defend your faith. Share your story honestly. Keep the focus on Jesus. Speak with respect. Trust God with the results. Don’t be discouraged by opposition.

Maybe today you feel nervous about sharing your faith. Remember, God used Paul—a former enemy of the church—to reach kings and rulers. He can use you, too.

Gospel Invitation:

Just as Paul invited Agrippa to believe, I invite you today: If you’ve never trusted in Jesus, you can turn to Him now. He died for your sins, rose again, and offers forgiveness and new life to all who believe (Acts 26:27–29).

Scripture References:

Acts 25–26

1 Peter 3:15

Colossians 4:6

Romans 1:16

1 Corinthians 3:6–7

Matthew 5:11–12