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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Acts 26:29 "Short time or long," Paul replied, "I wish to God that not only you but all who hear me this day may become what I am, except for these chains."</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/acts/26-29.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/8/44_Act_26_29.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Acts 26:29 - Festus Interrupts Paul's Defense" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Short time or long, Paul replied, I wish to God that not only you but all who hear me this day may become what I am, except for 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border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad9.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/acts/26-28.htm" title="Acts 26:28">◄</a> Acts 26:29 <a href="/acts/26-30.htm" title="Acts 26:30">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/acts/26.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/acts/26.htm">New International Version</a> Paul replied, &#8220Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/acts/26.htm">New Living Translation</a> Paul replied, “Whether quickly or not, I pray to God that both you and everyone here in this audience might become the same as I am, except for these chains.” <a href="/esv/acts/26.htm">English Standard Version</a> And Paul said, “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.” <a href="/bsb/acts/26.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> “Short time or long,” Paul replied, “I wish to God that not only you but all who hear me this day may become what I am, except for these chains.” <a href="/blb/acts/26.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Then Paul said, "I would wish anyhow to God, both in a little and in much, not only you but also all those hearing me this day to become such as I also am, except these chains." <a href="/kjv/acts/26.htm">King James Bible</a> And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds. <a href="/nkjv/acts/26.htm">New King James Version</a> And Paul said, “I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains.” <a href="/nasb_/acts/26.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> And Paul said, “I would wish to God that even in a short or long time not only you, but also all who hear me this day would become such as I myself am, except for these chains.” <a href="/nasb/acts/26.htm">NASB 1995</a> And Paul said, &#8220I would wish to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, might become such as I am, except for these chains.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/acts/26.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And Paul said, “I would to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, might become such as I am, except for these chains.” <a href="/lsb/acts/26.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> And Paul said, “I would pray to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, might become such as I am, except for these chains.” <a href="/amp/acts/26.htm">Amplified Bible</a> And Paul replied, “Whether in a short time or long, I wish to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become such as I am, except for these chains.” <a href="/csb/acts/26.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> “I wish before God,” replied Paul, “that whether easily or with difficulty, not only you but all who listen to me today might become as I am—except for these chains.” <a href="/hcsb/acts/26.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> I wish before God,&#8221 replied Paul, &#8220that whether easily or with difficulty, not only you but all who listen to me today might become as I am—except for these chains.&#8221 <a href="/asv/acts/26.htm">American Standard Version</a> And Paul said, I would to God, that whether with little or with much, not thou only, but also all that hear me this day, might become such as I am, except these bonds. <a href="/cev/acts/26.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Paul answered, "Whether it takes a short time or a long time, I wish you and everyone else who hears me today would become just like me! Except, of course, for these chains." <a href="/erv/acts/26.htm">English Revised Version</a> And Paul said, I would to God, that whether with little or with much, not thou only, but also all that hear me this day, might become such as I am, except these bonds. <a href="/gwt/acts/26.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Paul replied, "I wish to God that you and everyone listening to me today would quickly and completely become as I am (except for being a prisoner)." <a href="/gnt/acts/26.htm">Good News Translation</a> "Whether a short time or a long time," Paul answered, "my prayer to God is that you and all the rest of you who are listening to me today might become what I am--except, of course, for these chains!" <a href="/isv/acts/26.htm">International Standard Version</a> Paul replied, "Whether quickly or not, I wish to God that not only you but everyone listening to me today would become what I am—except for these chains!" <a href="/msb/acts/26.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> ?Short time or long,? Paul replied, ?I wish to God that not only you but all who hear me this day may become what I am, except for these chains.? <a href="/net/acts/26.htm">NET Bible</a> Paul replied, "I pray to God that whether in a short or a long time not only you but also all those who are listening to me today could become such as I am, except for these chains." <a href="/nheb/acts/26.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Paul said, "I pray to God, that whether with little or with much, not only you, but also all that hear me this day, might become such as I am, except for these bonds." <a href="/wbt/acts/26.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds. <a href="/wey/acts/26.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "My prayer to God, whether briefly or at length," replied Paul, "would be that not only you but all who are my hearers to-day, might become such as I am--except these chains." <a href="/web/acts/26.htm">World English Bible</a> Paul said, “I pray to God, that whether with little or with much, not only you, but also all that hear me today, might become such as I am, except for these bonds.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/acts/26.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And Paul said, “I would have wished to God, both in a little, and in much, not only you, but also all those hearing me today, to become such as I also am—except these bonds.” <a href="/blb/acts/26.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Then Paul said, "I would wish anyhow to God, both in a little and in much, not only you but also all those hearing me this day to become such as I also am, except these chains." <a href="/ylt/acts/26.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and Paul said, 'I would have wished to God, both in a little, and in much, not only thee, but also all those hearing me to-day, to become such as I also am -- except these bonds.' <a href="/slt/acts/26.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And Paul said, I would pray to God also in little, and in much, not only thee, but also all hearing me this day to become such, of what kind I also am, besides these bonds.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/acts/26.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And Paul said: I would to God, that both in a little and in much, not only thou, but also all that hear me, this day, should become such as I also am, except these bands. <a href="/cpdv/acts/26.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And Paul said, “I hope to God that, both to a small extent and to a great extent, not only you, but also all those who hear me this day will become just as I also am, except for these chains.” <a href="/nabre/acts/26.htm">New American Bible</a> Paul replied, “I would pray to God that sooner or later not only you but all who listen to me today might become as I am except for these chains.” <a href="/nrsvce/acts/26.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Paul replied, “Whether quickly or not, I pray to God that not only you but also all who are listening to me today might become such as I am—except for these chains.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/acts/26.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And Paul said, I pray God that not only you, but also all of those who hear me today, were as I am, except for these bonds. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/acts/26.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Paulus said, “I have desired from God in a little and in much, not for you only, but also for all those who are hearing me now to be like me, except for these chains.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/acts/26.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> And Paul replied: I could pray to God, that not only you, but also all that hear me to day, were both almost and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.<CM> <a href="/godbey/acts/26.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> And Paul said, I would to God, that both in little and in much, not only you, but also all of those hearing me this day, were such as I am, except these bonds. <a href="/haweis/acts/26.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> And Paul replied, would to God, that not only thou, but also that all who are hearing me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these chains.<CM> <a href="/mace/acts/26.htm">Mace New Testament</a> I pray God, said Paul, that not only you, but all that now hear me, were both almost and altogether such as I am, the circumstance of my bonds excepted. <a href="/wey/acts/26.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "My prayer to God, whether briefly or at length," replied Paul, "would be that not only you but all who are my hearers to-day, might become such as I am--except these chains." <a href="/worrell/acts/26.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> And Paul said, "I could pray God, that, both in a small degree and in a great degree, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, may become such as I am, except these chains!" <a href="/worsley/acts/26.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds. <a href="/parallel/acts/26-29.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/in5WTRQ9BSQ?start=8823" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/acts/26.htm">Festus Interrupts Paul's Defense</a> …28Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?” 29<a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/3641.htm" title="3641: oligō (Adj-DNS) -- Puny; especially neuter somewhat.">“Short time</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">or</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/3173.htm" title="3173: megalō (Adj-DNS) -- Large, great, in the widest sense. ">long,”</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: Ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3972.htm" title="3972: Paulos (N-NMS) -- Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle.">Paul replied,</a> <a href="/greek/2172.htm" title="2172: Euxaimēn (V-AOM-1S) -- To pray, wish. Middle voice of a primary verb; to wish; by implication, to pray to God.">“I wish</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theō (N-DMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">to God</a> <a href="/greek/302.htm" title="302: an (Prtcl) -- A primary particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty.">that</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/3440.htm" title="3440: monon (Adv) -- Alone, but, only. Neuter of monos as adverb; merely.">only</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: se (PPro-A2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/3956.htm" title="3956: pantas (Adj-AMP) -- All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.">all</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tous (Art-AMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">who</a> <a href="/greek/191.htm" title="191: akouontas (V-PPA-AMP) -- To hear, listen, comprehend by hearing; pass: is heard, reported. A primary verb; to hear.">hear</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me</a> <a href="/greek/4594.htm" title="4594: sēmeron (Adv) -- Today, now. Neuter of a presumed compound of the article ho and hemera; on the day; generally, now.">this day</a> <a href="/greek/1096.htm" title="1096: genesthai (V-ANM) -- A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.">may become</a> <a href="/greek/5108.htm" title="5108: toioutous (DPro-AMP) -- (including the other inflections); from toi and houtos; truly this, i.e. Of this sort (to denote character or individuality).">what</a> <a href="/greek/3697.htm" title="3697: hopoios (RelPro-NMS) -- Of what kind or manner, of what sort. From hos and poios; of what kind that, i.e. How great."></a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: egō (PPro-N1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">I</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: eimi (V-PIA-1S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">am,</a> <a href="/greek/3924.htm" title="3924: parektos (Prep) -- From para and ektos; near outside, i.e. Besides.">except for</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: toutōn (DPro-GMP) -- This; he, she, it. ">these</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1199.htm" title="1199: desmōn (N-GMP) -- Or desmos des-mos' neuter and masculine respectively from deo; a band, i.e. Ligament or shackle; figuratively, an impediment or disability.">chains.”</a> 30Then the king and the governor rose, along with Bernice and those seated with them.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-22.htm">1 Corinthians 9:22</a> To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. <a href="/romans/9-3.htm">Romans 9:3</a> For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my own flesh and blood, <a href="/1_timothy/2-4.htm">1 Timothy 2:4</a> who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. <a href="/2_peter/3-9.htm">2 Peter 3:9</a> The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance. <a href="/romans/10-1.htm">Romans 10:1</a> Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is for their salvation. <a href="/1_corinthians/7-7.htm">1 Corinthians 7:7</a> I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. <a href="/philippians/1-20.htm">Philippians 1:20</a> I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have complete boldness so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-12.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:12</a> encouraging you, comforting you, and urging you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20</a> Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God. <a href="/matthew/23-37.htm">Matthew 23:37</a> O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling! <a href="/john/17-20.htm">John 17:20-21</a> I am not asking on behalf of them alone, but also on behalf of those who will believe in Me through their message, / that all of them may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I am in You. May they also be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me. <a href="/luke/19-41.htm">Luke 19:41-42</a> As Jesus approached Jerusalem and saw the city, He wept over it / and said, “If only you had known on this day what would bring you peace! But now it is hidden from your eyes. <a href="/romans/11-14.htm">Romans 11:14</a> in the hope that I may provoke my own people to jealousy and save some of them. <a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm">1 Peter 3:15</a> But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect, <a href="/galatians/4-12.htm">Galatians 4:12</a> I beg you, brothers, become like me, for I became like you. You have done me no wrong.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And Paul said, I would to God, that not only you, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.I would.<a href="/exodus/16-3.htm">Exodus 16:3</a> And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.<a href="/numbers/11-29.htm">Numbers 11:29</a> And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD'S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!<a href="/2_samuel/18-33.htm">2 Samuel 18:33</a> And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept: and as he went, thus he said, O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!that not.<a href="/jeremiah/13-17.htm">Jeremiah 13:17</a> But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the LORD'S flock is carried away captive.<a href="/luke/19-41.htm">Luke 19:41,42</a> And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, … <a href="/john/5-34.htm">John 5:34</a> But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.except.<a href="/acts/12-6.htm">Acts 12:6</a> And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.<a href="/acts/25-14.htm">Acts 25:14</a> And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:<a href="/ephesians/6-20.htm">Ephesians 6:20</a> For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/acts/26-28.htm">Almost</a> <a href="/acts/4-18.htm">Altogether</a> <a href="/acts/25-14.htm">Bonds</a> <a href="/acts/24-4.htm">Briefly</a> <a href="/acts/24-27.htm">Chains</a> <a href="/acts/26-22.htm">Except</a> <a href="/acts/10-15.htm">God</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Great</a> <a href="/acts/26-3.htm">Hear</a> <a href="/acts/16-14.htm">Hearers</a> <a href="/acts/26-3.htm">Hearing</a> <a href="/acts/26-28.htm">Little</a> <a href="/acts/20-12.htm">Measure</a> <a href="/acts/26-28.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/acts/22-17.htm">Prayer</a> <a href="/acts/26-28.htm">Short</a> <a href="/acts/26-2.htm">To-Day</a> <a href="/acts/26-23.htm">Whether</a> <a href="/acts/25-22.htm">Wish</a> <a href="/acts/25-20.htm">Wished</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/philippians/2-27.htm">Almost</a> <a href="/acts/27-37.htm">Altogether</a> <a href="/acts/26-31.htm">Bonds</a> <a href="/romans/13-9.htm">Briefly</a> <a href="/acts/28-20.htm">Chains</a> <a href="/acts/27-31.htm">Except</a> <a href="/romans/8-39.htm">God</a> <a href="/acts/27-10.htm">Great</a> <a href="/acts/28-22.htm">Hear</a> <a href="/romans/2-13.htm">Hearers</a> <a href="/acts/28-15.htm">Hearing</a> <a href="/acts/27-14.htm">Little</a> <a href="/romans/7-13.htm">Measure</a> <a href="/acts/27-1.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/acts/28-8.htm">Prayer</a> <a href="/acts/27-28.htm">Short</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-15.htm">To-Day</a> <a href="/acts/27-12.htm">Whether</a> <a href="/romans/9-3.htm">Wish</a> <a href="/acts/27-29.htm">Wished</a><div class="vheading2">Acts 26</div>1. <a href="/acts/26-1.htm">Paul, in the presence of Agrippa, declares his life from his childhood;</a> 12. <a href="/acts/26-12.htm">and how miraculously he was converted, and called to his apostleship.</a> 24. <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Festus charges him with being insane, whereunto he answers modestly.</a> 28. <a href="/acts/26-28.htm">Agrippa is almost persuaded to be a Christian.</a> 31. <a href="/acts/26-31.htm">The whole company pronounces him innocent.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/acts/26.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/acts/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/acts/26.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>“Short time or long,” Paul's response indicates his willingness to see conversion happen regardless of the time it takes. This reflects the urgency and patience in evangelism, echoing <a href="/2_peter/3-9.htm">2 Peter 3:9</a>, where God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish. The phrase also suggests the unpredictability of conversion, as seen in the parable of the sower (<a href="/matthew/13.htm">Matthew 13:1-23</a>).Paul replied, Paul's reply is a direct response to King Agrippa's question in <a href="/acts/26-28.htm">Acts 26:28</a>. This interaction occurs during Paul's defense before Agrippa, Festus, and other dignitaries, highlighting Paul's boldness and commitment to his mission, as seen throughout Acts (<a href="/acts/9-15.htm">Acts 9:15-16</a>).“I wish to God that not only you Paul expresses a heartfelt desire for Agrippa's conversion, showing his love for all people, including those in authority. This aligns with <a href="/1_timothy/2.htm">1 Timothy 2:1-4</a>, where believers are urged to pray for all, including kings and those in authority, for their salvation.but all who hear me this day Paul's evangelistic vision extends beyond Agrippa to everyone present. This inclusivity reflects the Great Commission (<a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Matthew 28:19-20</a>) and the universal offer of the gospel, as seen in <a href="/romans/1-16.htm">Romans 1:16</a>, where the gospel is for everyone who believes.may become what I am, Paul desires others to share in his faith and relationship with Christ. This reflects his transformation from persecutor to apostle (<a href="/acts/9.htm">Acts 9:1-19</a>) and his identity in Christ, as he often writes about being a new creation (<a href="/2_corinthians/5-17.htm">2 Corinthians 5:17</a>).except for these chains.” Paul's mention of chains underscores his imprisonment for the gospel, highlighting the cost of discipleship (<a href="/luke/14-27.htm">Luke 14:27</a>). It also serves as a physical reminder of his suffering for Christ, paralleling Jesus' own suffering and sacrifice (<a href="/philippians/1-29.htm">Philippians 1:29</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who is giving his defense before King Agrippa. He is a central figure in the New Testament, known for his missionary journeys and epistles. 2. <a href="/topical/k/king_agrippa.htm">King Agrippa</a> Herod Agrippa II, the Jewish king before whom Paul is making his defense. He is knowledgeable about Jewish customs and controversies. 3. <a href="/topical/f/festus.htm">Festus</a> The Roman governor who succeeded Felix and is present during Paul's defense. He is responsible for sending Paul to Rome. 4. <a href="/topical/c/caesarea.htm">Caesarea</a> The location where Paul is being held and where this defense takes place. It was a significant city in Roman Judea. 5. <a href="/topical/c/chains.htm">Chains</a> Symbolic of Paul's imprisonment, yet he speaks of spiritual freedom and wishes it for all his listeners.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_personal_testimony.htm">The Power of Personal Testimony</a> Paul uses his personal account to witness to others. We should be prepared to share our own testimonies of faith. <a href="/topical/d/desire_for_others'_salvation.htm">Desire for Others' Salvation</a> Paul's wish for all to be as he is, spiritually free, should inspire us to pray and work for the salvation of others. <a href="/topical/j/joy_in_trials.htm">Joy in Trials</a> Despite his chains, Paul expresses joy and hope. We can find joy in Christ even amidst our trials. <a href="/topical/b/boldness_in_witnessing.htm">Boldness in Witnessing</a> Paul speaks boldly before rulers. We should not be afraid to share our faith, regardless of the audience. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_freedom_vs._physical_circumstances.htm">Spiritual Freedom vs. Physical Circumstances</a> Paul is physically bound but spiritually free. Our circumstances do not define our spiritual state.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_acts_26.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Acts 26</a> <a href="/q/can_women_teach_in_church.htm">Can women teach in church? (1 Timothy 2:12 vs. Acts 18:26)</a> <a href="/q/why_does_romans_13_stress_obeying_rulers.htm">Why does Paul in Romans 13 emphasize obedience to secular powers when other New Testament texts (e.g., Acts 5:29) suggest obeying God rather than human authorities?</a> <a href="/q/how_did_the_quake_free_prisoners_unharmed.htm">In Acts 16:22-26, how could an earthquake open all the prison doors and unfasten everyone's chains without inflicting any apparent damage or injury?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_galatians_3_28_erase_distinctions.htm">How does Galatians 3:28's declaration of unity erase cultural, gender, and social distinctions that still seem to persist in both biblical and modern contexts?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/acts/26.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(29) I would to God that not only thou . . .--It is clear that here also the English "almost" must be abandoned, and that we must take the words in a little or in a great (measure), or, with little labour and with great, as corresponding with what Agrippa had just said. Grammatically the words admit of three possible paraphrases, each of which has found advocates. We may suppose St. Paul to say--(1) "I would pray to God, not as you put it, lightly, but as fully as I can . . . .;" or (2) "I would pray to God that, whether persuaded with little evidence or much . . . .;" or (3) "I would pray to God that, both in a little measure and in a great. . . ." The first two of these explanations are open to the objection that they substitute a disjunctive alternative for the natural rendering of the two copulative conjunctions. The last has the advantage of so far taking the words in their natural construction; but, on the other hand, it takes the special phrase, "in a little," in a sense different from that in which we have seen reason to believe that Agrippa had used it. It is, however, perfectly conceivable that, for the purpose of emphasising the strong desire of his heart, St. Paul may have caught up the half-sarcastic phrase, and used it as with a new meaning.The MSS. present two readings, in a little and in a great, and in a little and in much; but this scarcely affects the interpretation of the passage.Except these bonds.--The words show, as has been pointed out in the Note on <a href="/acts/26-29.htm" title="And Paul said, I would to God, that not only you, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.">Acts 26:29</a>, that the prisoner was brought into court chained, after the Roman fashion, to the soldier or soldiers who kept guard over him. We cannot read the words without feeling their almost plaintive pathos. "Such as he"--pardoned, at peace with God and man, with a hope stretching beyond the grave, and an actual present participation in the powers of the eternal world--this is what he was desiring for them. If that could be effected, he would be content to remain in his bonds, and to leave them upon their thrones.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/acts/26.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 29. - Whether with little or with much for both almost, and altogether, A.V.; might become for were, A.V. (the order of the words is also changed). I would to God; literally, I would pray to God. It is not very different from the ηὐχόμην of <a href="/romans/9-3.htm">Romans 9:3</a>. All acknowledge the extreme beauty and taste of this reply, combining the firmness of the martyr with the courtesy of the gentleman. "Loquitur Paulus ex sensu suae beatitudinis, cum amore latissimo" (Bengel). <a href="/commentaries/acts/26-29.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>“Short [time] ὀλίγῳ (oligō) Adjective - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3641.htm">Strong's 3641: </a> Puny; especially neuter somewhat. [or] καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. long,” μεγάλῳ (megalō) Adjective - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3173.htm">Strong's 3173: </a> Large, great, in the widest sense. Paul [replied], Παῦλος (Paulos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3972.htm">Strong's 3972: </a> Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle. “I wish Εὐξαίμην (Euxaimēn) Verb - Aorist Optative Middle - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2172.htm">Strong's 2172: </a> To pray, wish. Middle voice of a primary verb; to wish; by implication, to pray to God. to God Θεῷ (Theō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. that ἂν (an) Particle <a href="/greek/strongs_302.htm">Strong's 302: </a> A primary particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty. not οὐ (ou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. only μόνον (monon) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3440.htm">Strong's 3440: </a> Alone, but, only. Neuter of monos as adverb; merely. you σὲ (se) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. all πάντας (pantas) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3956.htm">Strong's 3956: </a> All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole. who τοὺς (tous) Article - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. hear ἀκούοντάς (akouontas) Verb - Present Participle Active - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_191.htm">Strong's 191: </a> To hear, listen, comprehend by hearing; pass: is heard, reported. A primary verb; to hear. me μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. this day σήμερον (sēmeron) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_4594.htm">Strong's 4594: </a> Today, now. Neuter of a presumed compound of the article ho and hemera; on the day; generally, now. may become γενέσθαι (genesthai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Middle <a href="/greek/strongs_1096.htm">Strong's 1096: </a> A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude. what τοιούτους (toioutous) Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5108.htm">Strong's 5108: </a> (including the other inflections); from toi and houtos; truly this, i.e. Of this sort (to denote character or individuality). I ἐγώ (egō) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. am, εἰμι (eimi) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. except for παρεκτὸς (parektos) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_3924.htm">Strong's 3924: </a> From para and ektos; near outside, i.e. Besides. these τούτων (toutōn) Demonstrative Pronoun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. chains.” δεσμῶν (desmōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1199.htm">Strong's 1199: </a> Or desmos des-mos' neuter and masculine respectively from deo; a band, i.e. Ligament or shackle; figuratively, an impediment or disability. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/acts/26-29.htm">Acts 26:29 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/acts/26-29.htm">NT Apostles: Acts 26:29 Paul said I pray to God that (Acts of the Apostles Ac) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/acts/26-28.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Acts 26:28"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Acts 26:28" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/acts/26-30.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Acts 26:30"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Acts 26:30" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>