6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers: 7 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews. (Acts 26:6-7 KJV)
William Burkitt’s Commentary
Apostle Paul had vindicated his life before his doctrine now: he tells Agrippa, That for believing, expecting, and preaching the doctrine of the resurrection, he was questioned of the Jews; this he calls the hope of the promise made by God unto the fathers.
Others understand it of the promise of the Messias, which was made to the fathers and was generally depended upon by the most pious among the twelve tribes scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth; and in the faith and expectation whereof they fervently served God night and day.
Learn thence, 1. That the pious and godly among the Jews lived in hopes of the Messias’ appearing, of a glorious resurrection by him, and of eternal life and salvation with him.
2. That their hope of this promised mercy did cause them to serve God instantly day and night. Hope is the great exciter of industry and endeavour, expectation puts it upon action; the hope of obtaining is the motive to every undertaking: the Christian’s hope or thing hoped for is great and excellent. If the esteem is high, the endeavour will be strong.
The Christian, who has a well-grounded belief and hope of a life to come will serve God with unwearied diligence and industry; if by any means he may attain the fruition and enjoyment of it: Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come.