What does Acts 26:22 mean?

Explanation

Acts 26:22 is part of the Apostle Paul's defense before King Agrippa, where he recounts his conversion on the road to Damascus and his calling as a witness for Christ.

In this verse, Paul declares that the assistance he has received from God allowed him to continue his mission until the present day.

His ministry involves witnessing to everyone, regardless of their social status (“both to small and great”), about the fulfillment of the Hebrew Scriptures (the teachings of the prophets and of Moses).

Paul emphasizes that his message aligns with the Jewish tradition and that he speaks of nothing beyond what was already prophesied concerning the coming of the Messiah and the expected salvation.

Historical Context

This verse is situated within the narrative of Acts 26, where Paul stands trial in Caesarea before the Roman Governor Festus and the visiting King Agrippa II.

Paul was accused by Jewish leaders of teaching against the Law of Moses and desecrating the Temple.

The Book of Acts was authored by Luke, likely between AD 70 and AD 90, and it outlines the history of the early Christian church, focusing on the spread of the Gospel and the work of the apostles, especially Paul.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, Acts 26:22 presents several insights.

Firstly, it underscores God's providence, evidencing that Paul attributes his survival and ability to continue his mission to divine intervention.

Secondly, it highlights the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, suggesting that Christianity fulfills the prophetic traditions of Judaism rather than rejecting them.

Thirdly, equality in God's eyes is demonstrated through the phrase "both to small and great," reflecting the Christian doctrine that salvation is available to all.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Acts 26:22 can be multifold:

• Believers may find encouragement to persevere in their faith and mission, knowing that, like Paul, they are supported by God.
• This verse can encourage engaging with Scripture to understand how the New Testament fulfills Old Testament prophecies.
• Christians are reminded to share their faith with all people, regardless of societal ranking or stature, reflecting the inclusive nature of the Gospel.

Cross-References

• Acts 20:27: "For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God."
• Acts 28:23: "And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening."
• Romans 1:16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."

Language Study

Key phrases in the original Greek text of Acts 26:22 include:

• "ἐπικουρίαν τυχὼν τῆς ἀπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ" ("having therefore obtained help of God", επικουρια meaning "help, assistance"): This underscores the divine aid that Paul received.
• "μαρτυρόμενος" ("witnessing", from μαρτυρέω meaning "to bear witness or testify"): This designates Paul's role as one who testifies to the truth of God's fulfillment of prophecies.
• "μικρῷ τε καὶ μεγάλῳ" ("both to small and great"): This highlights the inclusiveness of Paul's message.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing Acts 26:22 with other cultural and religious traditions, one might contrast Paul's emphasis on monotheistic prophecy fulfillment with the polytheistic mythologies of his time, which often included various gods with disconnected narratives.

The Jewish prophetic tradition, which Paul identifies with, is unique in its linear concept of history moving towards a specific divine plan.

Scientific Perspectives

While Acts 26:22 is not directly related to scientific inquiry, it broaches a broader dialogue between faith and science. It speaks to the historical legitimacy of biblical narratives, where archaeological evidence sometimes intersects with locations and events described in the Scriptures.

Commentaries

Commentators often focus on Paul's steadfastness and the credibility of his defense.

William Barclay notes Paul's insistence on the continuity between his preaching and the Jewish Scriptures.

John Calvin comments on the divine assistance which has been Paul’s aid in all his troubles.

Matthew Henry reflects on the universality of Christianity that Paul's ministry represents, speaking to all levels of society.

These commentaries concur that Paul's message upholds and fulfills the hope of the Old Testament and witnesses to Christ without deviation from the Jewish faith.