And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”
Paul had scarcely touched the power of Christ's death and resurrection, the very heartbeat of his cause, when Festus cuts him off, calling him mad. But this is the expedient of a coward: by declaring Paul insane, Festus avoids both condemning him as a criminal and believing him as a preacher. A convenient escape, but a contemptible one.
AI summary
Commenting on Acts 26:24-32
Agrippa has declared Paul innocent, a full vindication. Here is proof that bold, faithful truth spoken with respect will impress even kings and judges, not offend them. Ministers should never doubt their message when they stand on truth and God's side; the most earnest appeal, if respectful, commends itself to the conscience of men.
AI summary
This man might have been set at liberty if he had not appealed to CÃ&brvbrsar--It would seem from this that such appeals, once made, behooved to be carried out. Next: Acts Chapter 27