especially because you are familiar with all the customs and controversies of the Jews. Therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.
Paul stood silent until given leave to speak, for the best speakers are not the most forward. Here Agrippa granted him what the Jews would scarcely allow: full liberty to answer for himself. His stretched hand showed no fear, only earnestness and command of himself; he needed no advocate, but only the chance to honour his cause by defending it plainly.
AI summary
Commenting on Acts 26:1-11
Paul flatters Agrippa with truth, not falsehood: the man knew Jewish rites whether from the law of Moses or the traditions of the elders, and he grasped the real disputes that divided Pharisees from Sadducees on angels, spirits, and resurrection. The records show Agrippa himself kept these customs, even weeping at the law when he read it as king.
AI summary
Agrippa was born a Jew and had lived in his own kingdom; it was natural he should know his fathers' religion. Paul did not know how to flatter men, but he stated simple truth and commended them as far as truth allowed. The Romans despised these customs and questions; Agrippa, who grasped their real importance, would listen with patience.
AI summary