Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write.
ACTS 25:26KJVWhat does Acts 25:26 mean?
Acts 25:26 shows Governor Festus explaining that he does not have any clear charges to write against Paul when sending him to the Roman emperor. Festus says this is why he has brought Paul before King Agrippa—to get help figuring out what to report after Agrippa examines Paul.
Festus is speaking to King Agrippa and a group of officials during Paul’s hearing. Festus admits he is unsure what specific accusations to send to his “lord” (the emperor, likely Nero) because the case against Paul is unclear. By involving Agrippa, Festus hopes to clarify the situation and avoid sending a prisoner to Rome without a proper explanation.
The Greek behind Acts 25:26
- ἀσφαλές (asphalēs, “certain”): This word means “secure” or “definite.” Festus is saying he has nothing definite or clear to write about Paul’s supposed crimes, highlighting the uncertainty of the charges.
- ἐξέτασις (exetasis, “examination”): This word refers to a careful investigation or inquiry. Festus is relying on Agrippa’s examination to help him find something meaningful to report.
- κύριος (kyrios, “lord”): Here, “lord” refers to the Roman emperor. Festus uses this formal term to show respect and the seriousness of reporting to such a high authority.
Why Acts 25:26 matters
- Acts 25:26 clears up that Paul’s case was so unclear that even the Roman governor did not know what to accuse him of, showing the weakness of the charges.
- The verse highlights the legal process in the Roman system, where sending a prisoner to the emperor without clear charges would have been improper and embarrassing for Festus.
- This moment connects to the larger story, showing how Paul’s appeal to Caesar was not just a legal move but also exposed the lack of real evidence against him.