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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Acts 26:25 But Paul answered, "I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/acts/26-25.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/3/44_Act_26_25.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Acts 26:25 - Festus Interrupts Paul's Defense" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="But Paul answered, I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/acts/26-25.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/acts/26-25.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/acts/">Acts</a> > <a href="/acts/26.htm">Chapter 26</a> > Verse 25</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad5.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/acts/26-24.htm" title="Acts 26:24">◄</a> Acts 26:25 <a href="/acts/26-26.htm" title="Acts 26:26">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/acts/26.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/acts/26.htm">New International Version</a> &#8220I am not insane, most excellent Festus,&#8221 Paul replied. &#8220What I am saying is true and reasonable. <a href="/nlt/acts/26.htm">New Living Translation</a> But Paul replied, “I am not insane, Most Excellent Festus. What I am saying is the sober truth. <a href="/esv/acts/26.htm">English Standard Version</a> But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. <a href="/bsb/acts/26.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. <a href="/blb/acts/26.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But Paul says, "I am not insane, most excellent Festus, but I speak words of truth and sobriety. <a href="/kjv/acts/26.htm">King James Bible</a> But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. <a href="/nkjv/acts/26.htm">New King James Version</a> But he said, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and reason. <a href="/nasb_/acts/26.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> But Paul said, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; on the contrary, I am speaking out with truthful and rational words. <a href="/nasb/acts/26.htm">NASB 1995</a> But Paul said, &#8220I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. <a href="/nasb77/acts/26.htm">NASB 1977 </a> But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. <a href="/lsb/acts/26.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. <a href="/amp/acts/26.htm">Amplified Bible</a> But Paul replied, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent and noble Festus, but [with a sound mind] I am uttering rational words of truth and reason. <a href="/csb/acts/26.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> But Paul replied, “I’m not out of my mind, most excellent Festus. On the contrary, I’m speaking words of truth and good judgment. <a href="/hcsb/acts/26.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But Paul replied, &#8220I&#8217m not out of my mind, most excellent Festus. On the contrary, I&#8217m speaking words of truth and good judgment. <a href="/asv/acts/26.htm">American Standard Version</a> But Paul saith, I am not mad, most excellent Festus; but speak forth words of truth and soberness. <a href="/cev/acts/26.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But Paul replied, "Honorable Festus, I am not crazy. What I am saying is true, and it makes sense. <a href="/erv/acts/26.htm">English Revised Version</a> But Paul saith, I am not mad, most excellent Festus; but speak forth words of truth and soberness. <a href="/gwt/acts/26.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Paul replied, "I'm not crazy, Your Excellency Festus. What I'm saying is true and sane. <a href="/gnt/acts/26.htm">Good News Translation</a> Paul answered, "I am not mad, Your Excellency! I am speaking the sober truth. <a href="/isv/acts/26.htm">International Standard Version</a> But Paul said, "I'm not out of my mind, Your Excellency Festus. I'm reporting what is absolutely true. <a href="/msb/acts/26.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But he answered, ?I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. <a href="/net/acts/26.htm">NET Bible</a> But Paul replied, "I have not lost my mind, most excellent Festus, but am speaking true and rational words. <a href="/nheb/acts/26.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> But he said, "I am not crazy, most excellent Festus, but boldly declare words of truth and reasonableness. <a href="/wbt/acts/26.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But he said, I am not insane, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. <a href="/wey/acts/26.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "I am not mad, most noble Festus," replied Paul; "I am speaking words of sober truth. <a href="/web/acts/26.htm">World English Bible</a> But he said, “I am not crazy, most excellent Festus, but boldly declare words of truth and reasonableness. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/acts/26.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And he says, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but of truth and soberness I speak forth the sayings; <a href="/blb/acts/26.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But Paul says, "I am not insane, most excellent Festus, but I speak words of truth and sobriety. <a href="/ylt/acts/26.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and he saith, 'I am not mad, most noble Festus, but of truth and soberness the sayings I speak forth; <a href="/slt/acts/26.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And he says, I am not frenzied, most excellent Festus; but I speak the words of truth and soundness of mind.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/acts/26.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And Paul said: I am not mad, most excellent Festus, but I speak words of truth and soberness. <a href="/cpdv/acts/26.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And Paul said: “I am not insane, most excellent Festus, but rather I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. <a href="/nabre/acts/26.htm">New American Bible</a> But Paul replied, “I am not mad, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and reason. <a href="/nrsvce/acts/26.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking the sober truth.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/acts/26.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But Paul said to him, I am not mad, O most excellent Festus; but I speak the words of truth and soberness. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/acts/26.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Paulus said, “I am not insane, excellent Festus, but I am speaking words of truth and integrity.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/acts/26.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> But he replied: I am not mad, most excellent Festus, but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. <a href="/godbey/acts/26.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> But Paul says, I am not a maniac, most noble Festus; but I speak forth the words of truth and soberness. <a href="/haweis/acts/26.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but utter words of truth and sobriety. <a href="/mace/acts/26.htm">Mace New Testament</a> I am not mad, said he, most noble Festus, but what I say, is very sound truth. <a href="/wey/acts/26.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "I am not mad, most noble Festus," replied Paul; "I am speaking words of sober truth. <a href="/worrell/acts/26.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> But Paul says, "I am not mad, most noble Festus; but I utter words of truth and soberness. <a href="/worsley/acts/26.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> But he replied, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but I speak the words of truth and of a sound mind. <a href="/parallel/acts/26-25.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/in5WTRQ9BSQ?start=8788" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/acts/26.htm">Festus Interrupts Paul's Defense</a> 24At this stage of Paul’s defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You are insane, Paul! Your great learning is driving you to madness!” 25<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">But</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: Ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3972.htm" title="3972: Paulos (N-NMS) -- Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle.">Paul</a> <a href="/greek/5346.htm" title="5346: phēsin (V-PIA-3S) -- To say, declare. Properly, the same as the base of phos and phaino; to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e. Speak or say.">answered,</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: Ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/3105.htm" title="3105: mainomai (V-PIM/P-1S) -- To be raving mad, speak as a madman. Middle voice from a primary mao; to rave as a maniac.">“I am not insane,</a> <a href="/greek/2903.htm" title="2903: Kratiste (Adj-VMS-S) -- Superlative of a derivative of kratos; strongest, i.e. very honorable.">most excellent</a> <a href="/greek/5347.htm" title="5347: Phēste (N-VMS) -- Festus. Of Latin derivation; festal; Phestus, a Roman.">Festus;</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise."></a> <a href="/greek/669.htm" title="669: apophthengomai (V-PIM/P-1S) -- To speak out, declare. From apo and phtheggomai; to enunciate plainly, i.e. Declare.">I am speaking</a> <a href="/greek/4487.htm" title="4487: rhēmata (N-ANP) -- From rheo; an utterance,; by implication, a matter or topic; with a negative naught whatever.">words</a> <a href="/greek/225.htm" title="225: alētheias (N-GFS) -- From alethes; truth.">of truth</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4997.htm" title="4997: sōphrosynēs (N-GFS) -- Soundness of mind, sanity; self-control, sobriety. From sophron; soundness of mind, i.e. sanity or self-control.">sobriety.</a> 26For the king knows about these matters, and I can speak freely to him. I am confident that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13</a> If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you. <a href="/2_timothy/1-7.htm">2 Timothy 1:7</a> For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. <a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm">1 Peter 3:15</a> But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect, <a href="/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/1_corinthians/2-15.htm">1 Corinthians 2:15</a> The spiritual man judges all things, but he himself is not subject to anyone’s judgment. <a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">2 Corinthians 4:2</a> Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4-10</a> Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities; / in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in labor, sleepless nights, and hunger; / in purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; ... <a href="/1_corinthians/2-4.htm">1 Corinthians 2:4-5</a> My message and my preaching were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, / so that your faith would not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power. <a href="/1_corinthians/2-13.htm">1 Corinthians 2:13</a> And this is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom, but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words. <a href="/2_corinthians/11-6.htm">2 Corinthians 11:6</a> Although I am not a polished speaker, I am certainly not lacking in knowledge. We have made this clear to you in every way possible. <a href="/proverbs/8-8.htm">Proverbs 8:8-9</a> All the words of my mouth are righteous; none are crooked or perverse. / They are all plain to the discerning, and upright to those who find knowledge. <a href="/proverbs/15-2.htm">Proverbs 15:2</a> The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly. <a href="/proverbs/16-21.htm">Proverbs 16:21</a> The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant speech promotes instruction. <a href="/proverbs/16-23.htm">Proverbs 16:23</a> The heart of the wise man instructs his mouth and adds persuasiveness to his lips. <a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm">Proverbs 17:27</a> A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.I am not.<a href="/john/8-49.htm">John 8:49</a> Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me.<a href="/1_peter/2-21.htm">1 Peter 2:21-23</a> For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: … <a href="/1_peter/3-9.htm">1 Peter 3:9,15</a> Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing… most.<a href="/acts/23-26.htm">Acts 23:26</a> Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.<a href="/acts/24-3.htm">Acts 24:3</a> We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.<a href="/luke/1-3.htm">Luke 1:3</a> It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,words.<a href="/titus/1-9.htm">Titus 1:9</a> Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.<a href="/titus/2-7.htm">Titus 2:7,8</a> In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/acts/19-8.htm">Boldly</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Crazy</a> <a href="/acts/20-27.htm">Declare</a> <a href="/acts/24-3.htm">Excellent</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Festus</a> <a href="/acts/26-1.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Insane</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Mad</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/acts/24-3.htm">Noble</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/acts/18-14.htm">Reasonable</a> <a href="/acts/19-28.htm">Sayings</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-37.htm">Sober</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-34.htm">Soberness</a> <a href="/acts/26-1.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Speaking</a> <a href="/acts/25-11.htm">True.</a> <a href="/acts/25-11.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/acts/23-22.htm">Utter</a> <a href="/acts/15-38.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/acts/26-26.htm">Boldly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-23.htm">Crazy</a> <a href="/romans/3-25.htm">Declare</a> <a href="/romans/2-18.htm">Excellent</a> <a href="/acts/26-32.htm">Festus</a> <a href="/acts/27-21.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-23.htm">Insane</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-23.htm">Mad</a> <a href="/acts/28-27.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/romans/9-21.htm">Noble</a> <a href="/acts/26-28.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/romans/12-1.htm">Reasonable</a> <a href="/romans/3-4.htm">Sayings</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">Sober</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-34.htm">Soberness</a> <a href="/acts/26-26.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/acts/26-31.htm">Speaking</a> <a href="/romans/1-25.htm">True.</a> <a href="/romans/1-18.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/romans/1-22.htm">Utter</a> <a href="/romans/1-14.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/acts/28-29.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Acts 26</div>1. <a href="/acts/26-1.htm">Paul, in the presence of Agrippa, declares his life from his childhood;</a> 12. <a href="/acts/26-12.htm">and how miraculously he was converted, and called to his apostleship.</a> 24. <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Festus charges him with being insane, whereunto he answers modestly.</a> 28. <a href="/acts/26-28.htm">Agrippa is almost persuaded to be a Christian.</a> 31. <a href="/acts/26-31.htm">The whole company pronounces him innocent.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; 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This interaction occurs during Paul's defense before King Agrippa, Festus, and other dignitaries. Paul, a Roman citizen and a Pharisee, uses his legal and rhetorical skills to address the accusations against him. His response is part of a larger narrative where he defends his conversion and mission to spread the Gospel.I am not insane Festus had accused Paul of being out of his mind due to his passionate testimony about Jesus Christ and the resurrection. In the Greco-Roman world, claims of resurrection and divine visions could be seen as madness. Paul refutes this by asserting his mental clarity, emphasizing that his experiences and teachings are grounded in reality and divine revelation.most excellent Festus Paul uses a respectful title for Festus, acknowledging his authority and position. This title reflects the Roman custom of addressing officials with honorifics, which was important for maintaining decorum and respect in legal and public settings. It also demonstrates Paul's strategic approach in his defense, aiming to maintain a respectful dialogue.I am speaking words of truth Paul asserts the truthfulness of his message, which centers on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This claim to truth is foundational to the Christian faith, as Jesus Himself declared to be "the way, the truth, and the life" (<a href="/john/14-6.htm">John 14:6</a>). Paul's confidence in the truth of the Gospel is rooted in his personal encounter with the risen Christ and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.and sobriety Paul emphasizes that his message is delivered with soundness of mind and reason. The term "sobriety" suggests a clear, rational, and serious presentation, countering any claims of irrationality. This aligns with the biblical call for believers to be sober-minded (<a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">1 Peter 5:8</a>) and reflects the apostolic commitment to reasoned discourse, as seen in Paul's other writings and speeches throughout Acts.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who is defending himself before King Agrippa and Festus. He is a central figure in the New Testament, known for his missionary journeys and epistles. 2. <a href="/topical/f/festus.htm">Festus</a> The Roman governor who succeeded Felix. He is presiding over Paul's trial and is skeptical of Paul's testimony about Jesus and the resurrection. 3. <a href="/topical/k/king_agrippa.htm">King Agrippa</a> Herod Agrippa II, the Jewish king who is present at Paul's defense. He is familiar with Jewish customs and the prophets. 4. <a href="/topical/c/caesarea.htm">Caesarea</a> The location where Paul is being held and where this trial takes place. It was a significant city in Roman Judea. 5. <a href="/topical/p/paul's_defense.htm">Paul's Defense</a> The event where Paul is making his case for the gospel and his own sanity, asserting the truth of his message about Jesus Christ.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_truth_and_sobriety.htm">The Importance of Truth and Sobriety</a> Paul emphasizes that his message is grounded in truth and reason. As Christians, we are called to present the gospel with clarity and integrity. <a href="/topical/r/responding_to_skepticism_with_respect.htm">Responding to Skepticism with Respect</a> Paul addresses Festus respectfully, even when accused of insanity. This teaches us to engage with critics respectfully and thoughtfully. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_personal_testimony.htm">The Power of Personal Testimony</a> Paul's defense is rooted in his personal encounter with Christ. Our testimonies are powerful tools for witnessing to others. <a href="/topical/c/courage_in_the_face_of_opposition.htm">Courage in the Face of Opposition</a> Despite being on trial, Paul boldly proclaims the gospel. We are encouraged to stand firm in our faith, even when facing challenges. <a href="/topical/u/understanding_the_audience.htm">Understanding the Audience</a> Paul tailors his message to his audience, knowing their background and beliefs. We should be mindful of our audience when sharing the gospel.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_acts_26.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Acts 26</a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_false_accusations.htm">What are the Bible's teachings on false accusations?</a> <a href="/q/is_festus_dismissing_paul's_claims.htm">Does Festus’s accusation in Acts 26:24 suggest that Paul’s claims are too extraordinary to be taken seriously? </a> <a href="/q/is_luke's_acts_26_30-32_account_reliable.htm">How reliable is Luke's account of Paul's defense in Acts 26:30-32, given the limited external historical corroboration?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_heal_from_church_hurt.htm">How can one heal from being hurt by the church?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/acts/26.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(25) I am not mad, most noble Festus.--There is something characteristic in the union of a calm protest with the courtesy which gives to rulers the honour which is their due. Comp. the use of the same word by Tertullus (<a href="/acts/24-3.htm" title="We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.">Acts 24:3</a>). The painful experience of <a href="/acts/23-3.htm" title="Then said Paul to him, God shall smite you, you white washed wall: for sit you to judge me after the law, and command me to be smitten contrary to the law?">Acts 23:3</a> had, we may well believe, taught the Apostle to control his natural impulses, and to keep watch over his lips, so that no unguarded utterance might escape from them.The words of truth and soberness.--The latter word was one of the favourite terms of Greek ethical writers, as having a higher meaning than the "temperance" of <a href="/acts/24-25.htm" title="And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go your way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for you.">Acts 24:25</a>, to express the perfect harmony of impulses and reason (Aristot. Eth. Nicom. iii. 10). Here it is contrasted with the "madness" of which Festus had spoken, looking, as he did, on the Apostle as an enthusiastic dreamer. There was doubtless a deep-lying enthusiasm in his character, but it was an enthusiasm which had its root not in madness, but in truth.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/acts/26.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 25. - Paul saith for he said, A.V. and T.R.; excellent for noble, A.V.; words for the words, A.V. Most excellent (κράτιστε). It appears to be the proper title to give the procurator (see <a href="/acts/23-26.htm">Acts 23:26</a>; <a href="/acts/24-3.htm">Acts 24:3</a>). St. Luke also applies it to Theophilus (<a href="/luke/1-3.htm">Luke 1:3</a>). In classical Greek οἱ κράτιστοι are the aristocracy. Soberness (σωφροσύνη); sound or sober mindedness; just the opposite of the μανία of which he was accused. See the use of σωφρονεῖν (<a href="/mark/5-15.htm">Mark 5:15</a>; <a href="/luke/8-35.htm">Luke 8:35</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13</a>, etc.), and of σωφρονίζειν σωφρωνισμός σώφρων, etc. So also in Plato, σωφρωσύνη is opposed to μανία. <a href="/commentaries/acts/26-25.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. Paul Παῦλος (Paulos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3972.htm">Strong's 3972: </a> Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle. answered φησίν (phēsin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5346.htm">Strong's 5346: </a> To say, declare. Properly, the same as the base of phos and phaino; to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e. Speak or say. vvv, Οὐ (Ou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. “I am not insane, μαίνομαι (mainomai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3105.htm">Strong's 3105: </a> To be raving mad, speak as a madman. Middle voice from a primary mao; to rave as a 'maniac'. most excellent Κράτιστε (Kratiste) Adjective - Vocative Masculine Singular - Superlative <a href="/greek/strongs_2903.htm">Strong's 2903: </a> Superlative of a derivative of kratos; strongest, i.e. very honorable. Festus; Φῆστε (Phēste) Noun - Vocative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5347.htm">Strong's 5347: </a> Festus. Of Latin derivation; festal; Phestus, a Roman. I am speaking ἀποφθέγγομαι (apophthengomai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_669.htm">Strong's 669: </a> To speak out, declare. From apo and phtheggomai; to enunciate plainly, i.e. Declare. words ῥήματα (rhēmata) Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4487.htm">Strong's 4487: </a> From rheo; an utterance, ; by implication, a matter or topic; with a negative naught whatever. of truth ἀληθείας (alētheias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_225.htm">Strong's 225: </a> From alethes; truth. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. sobriety. σωφροσύνης (sōphrosynēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4997.htm">Strong's 4997: </a> Soundness of mind, sanity; self-control, sobriety. From sophron; soundness of mind, i.e. sanity or self-control. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/acts/26-25.htm">NT Apostles: Acts 26:25 But he said I am not crazy (Acts of the Apostles Ac) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/acts/26-24.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Acts 26:24"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Acts 26:24" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/acts/26-26.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Acts 26:26"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Acts 26:26" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>