Summary of Acts 25–26

After two years in prison, Paul’s case is brought before the new Roman governor, Festus. The Jewish leaders again accuse Paul and ask that he be brought to Jerusalem, secretly planning to ambush and kill him. Paul refuses and exercises his right as a Roman citizen by appealing his case to Caesar, which means he will be sent to Rome.

Before sending him, Festus asks King Agrippa II to hear Paul’s case. In a grand audience, Paul shares his testimony—describing his life as a Pharisee, his encounter with the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus, and the mission Christ gave him to proclaim the gospel. Paul declares that the prophets foretold that the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead. Though Festus dismisses him as out of his mind, Paul boldly invites Agrippa and everyone listening to believe in Christ. Agrippa concludes that Paul has done nothing deserving imprisonment, but because he appealed to Caesar, he must be sent to Rome.

Introduction

In Acts 25–26, Paul stands before governors and kings while still imprisoned. Even in adversity, he continues to live the Christ life—going where Christ leads and saying what Christ wants him to say.

1. Paul Before Festus

Read: Acts 25:1–12

Discussion Question:
The Jewish leaders bring serious accusations against Paul but cannot prove them. What stands out to you about Paul’s response and his decision to appeal to Caesar?

2. Festus Explains the Case

Read: Acts 25:13–22

Discussion Question:
Festus says the dispute is really about “a certain Jesus who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive.” Why do you think the resurrection of Jesus was such a central issue in Paul’s message?

3. The Audience with Agrippa

Read: Acts 25:23–27

Discussion Question:
Luke contrasts the “great pomp” of Agrippa and Bernice with Paul, who stands there in chains. What does this scene reveal about how God often works through unlikely people or situations?

4. Paul’s Life Before Christ

Read: Acts 26:1–11

Discussion Question:
Paul openly shares his past as someone who persecuted Christians. Why do you think Paul repeatedly tells this part of his story?

5. Paul’s Conversion and Calling

Read: Acts 26:12–18

Discussion Question:
What does this passage show us about Jesus’ purpose in saving Paul?

6. Paul Proclaims the Gospel

Read: Acts 26:19–25

Discussion Question:
When Festus says Paul is out of his mind, Paul calmly insists he is speaking “true and rational words.” What does this teach us about responding when people reject or misunderstand our faith?

7. Paul’s Invitation to Agrippa

Read: Acts 26:26–32

Discussion Question:
Paul doesn’t just defend himself—he invites Agrippa and everyone listening to believe. What does this tell us about Paul’s priorities in this moment?

Final Application

In the sermon we heard that living the Christ life means going where Christ wants to go and saying what Christ wants to say.

Application:
Where is it hardest for you to let Jesus “take the wheel”—in the direction of your life or in the words you speak to others?

Response Question:
In what area of your life are you most tempted to stay in the driver’s seat instead of letting Jesus take the wheel?