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.

ACTS 26:29KJV
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Acts 26:29 (KJV)

What does Acts 26:29 mean?

Acts 26:29 shows Paul expressing his deep wish that not only King Agrippa, but everyone listening to him, would become like him in faith—except for being in chains. Paul makes it clear that he wants others to share his beliefs, but not his suffering as a prisoner.

Paul is speaking to King Agrippa and a group of officials during his defense in Caesarea. After Agrippa comments on how Paul is trying to persuade him to become a Christian, Paul responds with this heartfelt statement. Paul’s words reveal both his care for his listeners and his willingness to endure hardship for his faith, while also showing he does not wish imprisonment on anyone else.

The Greek behind Acts 26:29

  • “ἐν ὀλίγῳ” (en oligo, G1722, G3641) and “ἐν πολλῷ” (en pollo, G1722, G4183): These phrases are translated “almost” and “altogether” in the KJV, but literally mean “in little” and “in much.” Paul is saying, whether quickly or after a long time, he wishes everyone would become as he is in faith.
  • “δεσμοί” (desmoi, G1199): This word means “bonds” or “chains.” Paul’s mention of “except these bonds” highlights that, while he wants others to share his faith, he does not want them to share his imprisonment.

Why Acts 26:29 matters

  • Acts 26:29 clears up any idea that Paul is bitter about his suffering; instead, he shows generosity and goodwill even toward those judging him.
  • The verse emphasizes Paul’s main concern: the spiritual well-being of his listeners, not his own comfort or freedom.
  • This moment connects to the larger theme in Acts of the gospel being shared with both Jews and Gentiles, even in the face of opposition and hardship.

Where else these words appear

“except” Greek G3924 · used in 3 verses

  • Matthew 5:32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:28 Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.

“as” Greek G3697 · used in 5 verses

  • 1 Corinthians 3:13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
  • Galatians 2:6 But of these who seemed to be somewhat,(whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:
  • 1 Thessalonians 1:9 For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;

“would” Greek G2172 · used in 7 verses

  • Acts 27:29 Then fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:7 Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.
  • James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

“bonds” Greek G1199 · used in 20 verses

  • Mark 7:35 And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain.
  • Acts 23:29 Whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.
  • Colossians 4:18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen. Written from Rome to Colossians by Tychicus and Onesimus.