Acts 25:26 - of whom I have no certain thing to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, that, after examination, I may have something to write.

Generated Verse: Acts 25:26

What does "Acts 25:26" mean?


This verse from Acts 25:26 is spoken by the Roman Governor Festus about the Apostle Paul, who is on trial before him. Let's break down its meaning:

"of whom I have no certain thing to write to my lord." This is the key. Festus is saying that he has no clear and convincing evidence of any wrongdoing by Paul that would warrant sending him to Rome (his "lord," the Emperor Nero) for judgment. Paul's accusers (the Jewish leaders) have presented their case, but Festus is not persuaded. He doesn't understand the religious arguments and believes the charges are not serious enough to justify a formal legal proceeding in Rome.

"Therefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa..." Because Festus is uncertain, he presents Paul before King Agrippa II, a Jewish ruler who is knowledgeable about Jewish customs and law. Festus hopes Agrippa will be able to understand the situation better than he does.

"that, after examination, I may have something to write." Festus's motivation is practical: He needs to write a report to the Emperor about Paul's case if he sends him to Rome. He hopes that Agrippa's examination of Paul will give him enough information and clarity to write a sensible and informed report to the Emperor, explaining why he is sending Paul to Rome for trial. He doesn't want to send Paul to Rome based solely on the vague accusations of the Jewish leaders without understanding the situation himself.

In essence:

Festus is admitting his ignorance and seeking expert advice. He hopes Agrippa can clarify the situation so that he can write an informed report to the Emperor if he decides to send Paul to Rome. He is looking for a concrete reason to justify his actions. He wants to avoid looking foolish or incompetent before the Emperor. He needs a reason to justify Paul's transfer.