Acts 26:2
I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews: I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:
The words open Paul's in-person defense before King Agrippa and the other leading men of Caesarea, answering for himself the accusations and charges brought against him by the Jews. He counts himself happy and privileged in this position, gladly welcoming the chance to make his defense.
He speaks calmly and confidently despite his imprisonment, with composure and courage, self-control and dignified courtesy. The rank, wealth, and display of his audience do not unsettle, shake, or daunt him, for he knows worldly status, wealth, and position have little worth.
He is especially glad to speak before Agrippa because the king is familiar with Jewish customs, disputes, and questions, and on that ground he asks him to listen patiently. His imprisonment and defense thus become an opportunity to present the reasons for his faith, to witness for Jesus and tell of his conversion, and to bring the gospel for which he is imprisoned before kings, governors, princes, and nobles.
Through this testimony his hearers are left without excuse and many believe, so his bonds serve to spread the knowledge of Christ and glorify God. His speech stands as a model and illustration of true Christian courtesy and persuasive eloquence, showing that Christianity expresses courtesy rooted in genuine kindness of heart and able to accompany persuasive speech, not merely the formal politeness practiced by the world. His defense in carrying the gospel to princes and nobles was later paralleled by the Reformation confession presented before the rulers of the empire.