Acts 28:25

And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,

Acts 28:25 (KJV)

Context

This verse closes Paul’s meeting with the Jewish leaders in Rome while he was under house arrest, awaiting trial before Caesar. He had spent the day testifying about the kingdom of God and persuading them concerning Jesus from the Law of Moses and the Prophets. The response was divided: some were convinced, but others would not believe. As they departed in disagreement, Paul spoke one final word.

Meaning

The phrase “And when they agreed not among themselves” describes the Jewish leaders’ inability to reach a consensus about Paul’s message. Their division was not merely a difference of opinion; it was a fundamental disagreement over whether Jesus is the Messiah. Paul’s response, “Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,” affirms that the Holy Spirit spoke through the prophet Isaiah. The word “well” means rightly or truly, indicating that Isaiah’s prophecy was accurate and divinely inspired. Paul’s “one word” was a solemn parting declaration, introducing the quotation from Isaiah 6:9-10 that follows in Acts 28:26-27.

Biblical connections

Paul’s quotation from Isaiah underscores the continuity between Old Testament prophecy and the gospel of Jesus Christ. The prophecy describes a people who hear but do not understand and see but do not perceive. By applying it to his hearers, Paul showed that their rejection of the message was not unforeseen; it fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet. This also affirms the divine origin of Scripture: the Holy Spirit is the speaker behind the prophet’s words.

Application

This verse reminds us that the gospel, though clearly presented, does not produce faith in everyone. Even when the message is faithful and persuasive, hearers may disagree or reject it. Paul did not dilute his message to avoid division; he spoke the truth and left the result with God. Believers today can take comfort that such responses were prophesied and are part of the cost of faithful witness. The verse also calls us to examine our own hearts: do we truly hear and understand, or do we, like some of Paul’s hearers, turn away?

Reflection

Paul’s parting words were not a sign of defeat but of faithfulness. He had delivered the message entrusted to him, and he entrusted the outcome to God. The Holy Spirit, who spoke through Isaiah, still speaks through Scripture today, calling people to faith. As we share the gospel, we can trust that God’s word will accomplish His purpose, even when human response is divided.