Book of Acts - Chapter 26 - Verse 29

The verse "And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds." expresses the desire of the apostle Paul for everyone who hears him to not only be Christians like him but also to be free from the physical restraints that he is currently experiencing. Paul is speaking to King Agrippa about his own faith journey and how he wishes that everyone could experience the same spiritual transformation that he has undergone. By stating that he wishes everyone to be like him "except these bonds", Paul is acknowledging the hardships and persecution he faces as a follower of Christ. He is essentially saying that he wishes for all to share in his faith and freedom from sin, but not necessarily in his current physical circumstances.