New Testament
Acts 26:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
especially since you are thoroughly familiar with all the customs and disputes among the Jews. So I ask you to listen to me patiently.
Compare translations
Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
What Acts 26:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul is speaking to King Agrippa, acknowledging the king's deep understanding of Jewish customs and controversies. Paul is aware that Agrippa is knowledgeable about the issues that divide the Jewish people. By recognizing Agrippa's expertise, Paul is asking for his attention and patience as he shares his story. This moment highlights the importance of context and understanding when discussing complex topics. Paul is not just presenting facts; he is inviting Agrippa into a conversation that requires careful listening. His respectful approach sets the stage for a meaningful dialogue about faith and personal experience. This interaction shows how effective communication often involves recognizing the audience's background and knowledge. Paul’s request for patience indicates that he has something significant to share, and he hopes Agrippa will be open to hearing it. This moment is a reminder that when we communicate, especially about important matters, we should consider the listener's perspective and be patient in our explanations.
How to apply Acts 26:3 to your life
When discussing important topics, take time to understand your audience's background. Approach conversations with respect and patience, just as Paul did. This can lead to more meaningful exchanges and a greater chance of being heard. Remember, effective communication is about connection, not just information sharing. Be open to listening as well as speaking, fostering a two-way dialogue that enriches understanding for everyone involved.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Before King Agrippa (Acts 25:13–26:32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 26:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 26:3
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 26:3 mean?
Acts 26:3 features Paul addressing King Agrippa, recognizing his expertise in Jewish customs and disputes. Paul asks Agrippa to listen patiently as he shares his story, emphasizing the importance of understanding the audience in communication.
What is the significance of patience in Acts 26:3?
In Acts 26:3, Paul's request for patience highlights the need for careful listening when discussing complex topics. It shows that meaningful dialogue requires time and respect for the listener's perspective.
How does Acts 26:3 relate to effective communication?
Acts 26:3 illustrates that effective communication involves recognizing the listener's background and knowledge. Paul's respectful approach encourages a two-way dialogue, making it easier to share important messages.
What can we learn from Paul's approach in Acts 26:3?
Paul's approach in Acts 26:3 teaches us the value of understanding our audience and communicating with respect and patience. This can lead to more meaningful conversations and better understanding.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.