Agrippa II

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Greek Agrippas (a Roman family name; reflects Herodian-Roman alignment)
• Period/Era: Roman Imperial Context (Apostolic Age)
• Main References: Acts 25–26
• Key Connections: Bernice (sister); Porcius Festus (Roman governor); Paul (apostle)

Who was Agrippa II?

Agrippa II was a Herodian ruler with authority in parts of the eastern Roman territories during the time of the early church.
He came with Bernice to greet Festus at Caesarea and was asked to hear Paul’s case.
He was familiar with Jewish customs and questions, making him a significant listener to Paul’s defense.

Key Events & Achievements

• Hearing Paul: Listened to Paul’s defense and testimony in Caesarea at Festus’s request (Acts 25:23; 26:1–3).
• Evaluating the Case: Concluded with Festus that Paul had done nothing deserving death or imprisonment (Acts 26:31).
• Noting the Appeal: Acknowledged that Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar (Acts 26:32).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Agrippa II’s encounter with Paul shows how the gospel was publicly examined within Roman legal settings during the apostolic mission.

Key Verse

"Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You have permission to speak for yourself.”" — Acts 26:1, ESV