When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them; and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, "This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains." Then Agrippa said to Festus, "This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar." Acts 26:30-32

The first things I notice about the aftermath of Paul’s trial before King Agrippa II are disinterest and diversion. The king and his wife, Bernice, were spiritually unmoved by Paul’s defense of himself and declaration of the gospel. I say this because they inquired no further. History reveals that neither Agrippa nor Bernice died saved. They were disinterested.

Agrippa then employed the, “That’s great for you, but not for me,” diversion. He did not utter those exact words, but their words, "This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains,” were a diversion away from themselves. They defended Paul’s right to follow Jesus, and even to promote the religion of following Jesus. But they were not interested, so they diverted any conviction they may have felt, and further discussion of the matter by talking about Paul instead.

While we want to talk about Christ to people in hopes that they will believe, we know from scripture and experience that not all will respond to the gospel in faith. In fact, fewer generally do than don’t. Let this not discourage us. Our responsibility is to talk about Jesus and pray for people’s conversions, but their response is between them and the Lord—who alone can change their hearts.

When people employ the, “That’s good for you, but not for me” diversion, while we may be disappointed in their lack of faith, let us be encouraged that, “Yes!, Christ and the gospel are good for we who believe!” And let us thank the Lord that the Holy Spirit regenerated us, giving us new hearts and the gifts of faith and repentance!

Next time: What about Agrippa’s words to Festus in verse 32?