{Thou art permitted} (epitrepetai soi). Literally, It is
permitted thee. As if Agrippa were master of ceremonies instead
of Festus. Agrippa as a king and guest presides at the grand
display while Festus has simply introduced Paul. {For thyself}
(huper seautou). Some MSS. have peri (concerning). Paul is
allowed to speak in his own behalf. No charges are made against
him. In fact, Festus has admitted that he has no real proof of
any charges. {Stretched forth his hand} (ekteinas t(886e) cheira).
Dramatic oratorical gesture (not for silence as in 12:17 13:16 ) with the chain still upon it (verse 29 ) linking him to
the guard. First aorist active participle of ektein(935c), to
stretch out. {Made his defence} (apelogeito). Inchoative
imperfect of apologeomai (middle), "began to make his defence."
This is the fullest of all Paul's defences. He has no word of
censure of his enemies or of resentment, but seizes the
opportunity to preach Christ to such a distinguished company
which he does with "singular dignity" (Furneaux). He is now
bearing the name of Christ "before kings" ( Ac 9:15 ). In general
Paul follows the line of argument of the speech on the stairs
(chapter Ac 22 ).
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