Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version “I am not insane, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and reasonable. New Living Translation But Paul replied, “I am not insane, Most Excellent Festus. What I am saying is the sober truth. English Standard Version But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. Berean Standard Bible But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. Berean Literal Bible But Paul says, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus, but I declare forth words of truth and sobriety. King James Bible But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. New King James Version But he said, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and reason. New American Standard Bible But Paul said, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; on the contrary, I am speaking out with truthful and rational words. NASB 1995 But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. NASB 1977 But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. Legacy Standard Bible But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. Amplified Bible 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. Berean Annotated Bible But Paul (humble) answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus (festival); I am speaking words {rhēmata} of truth and sobriety. Christian Standard Bible 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. Holman Christian Standard Bible 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. American Standard Version But Paul saith, I am not mad, most excellent Festus; but speak forth words of truth and soberness. Contemporary English Version But Paul replied, "Honorable Festus, I am not crazy. What I am saying is true, and it makes sense. English Revised Version But Paul saith, I am not mad, most excellent Festus; but speak forth words of truth and soberness. GOD'S WORD® Translation Paul replied, "I'm not crazy, Your Excellency Festus. What I'm saying is true and sane. Good News Translation Paul answered, "I am not mad, Your Excellency! I am speaking the sober truth. International Standard Version But Paul said, "I'm not out of my mind, Your Excellency Festus. I'm reporting what is absolutely true. NET Bible But Paul replied, "I have not lost my mind, most excellent Festus, but am speaking true and rational words. New Heart English Bible But he said, "I am not crazy, most excellent Festus, but boldly declare words of truth and reasonableness. Webster's Bible Translation But he said, I am not insane, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. Weymouth New Testament "I am not mad, most noble Festus," replied Paul; "I am speaking words of sober truth. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleBut he answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. World English Bible But he said, “I am not crazy, most excellent Festus, but boldly declare words of truth and reasonableness. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd he says, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but of truth and soberness I speak forth the sayings; Berean Literal Bible But Paul says, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus, but I declare forth words of truth and sobriety. Young's Literal Translation and he saith, 'I am not mad, most noble Festus, but of truth and soberness the sayings I speak forth; Smith's Literal Translation And he says, I am not frenzied, most excellent Festus; but I speak the words of truth and soundness of mind. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd Paul said: I am not mad, most excellent Festus, but I speak words of truth and soberness. Catholic Public Domain Version And Paul said: “I am not insane, most excellent Festus, but rather I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. New American Bible But Paul replied, “I am not mad, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and reason. New Revised Standard Version But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking the sober truth. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleBut Paul said to him, I am not mad, O most excellent Festus; but I speak the words of truth and soberness. Aramaic Bible in Plain English Paulus said, “I am not insane, excellent Festus, but I am speaking words of truth and integrity.” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentBut he replied: I am not mad, most excellent Festus, but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. Godbey New Testament But Paul says, I am not a maniac, most noble Festus; but I speak forth the words of truth and soberness. Haweis New Testament But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but utter words of truth and sobriety. Mace New Testament I am not mad, said he, most noble Festus, but what I say, is very sound truth. Weymouth New Testament "I am not mad, most noble Festus," replied Paul; "I am speaking words of sober truth. Worrell New Testament But Paul says, "I am not mad, most noble Festus; but I utter words of truth and soberness. Worsley New Testament But he replied, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but I speak the words of truth and of a sound mind. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Festus Interrupts Paul's Defense24At this stage of Paul’s defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You are insane, Paul! Your great learning is driving you to madness!” 25But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. 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.… Cross References But Paul answered, Acts 24:10 When the governor motioned for Paul to speak, he began his response: “Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense. 1 Peter 3:15 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, Proverbs 15:28 The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil. “I am not insane, Mark 3:21 When His family heard about this, they went out to take custody of Him, saying, “He is out of His mind.” John 10:20 Many of them said, “He is demon-possessed and insane. Why would you listen to Him?” 2 Corinthians 5:13 If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you. most excellent Festus; Acts 24:3 In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude. Acts 23:26 Claudius Lysias, To His Excellency, Governor Felix: Greetings. Luke 1:3 Therefore, having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, I am speaking words of truth Proverbs 8:7 For my mouth will speak the truth, and wickedness is detestable to my lips. Ephesians 4:25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one another. John 18:37 “Then You are a king!” Pilate said. “You say that I am a king,” Jesus answered. “For this reason I was born and have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to My voice.” and sobriety. Romans 12:3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment, according to the measure of faith God has given you. 1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and sober, so that you can pray. 1 Thessalonians 5:6 So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. Treasury of Scripture But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. I am not. John 8:49 Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me. 1 Peter 2:21-23 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: … 1 Peter 3:9,15 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. Acts 23:26 Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting. Acts 24:3 We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness. Luke 1:3 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. Titus 1:9 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. Titus 2:7,8 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, … Jump to Previous Boldly Crazy Declare Excellent Festus Forth Insane Mad Mind Noble Paul Reasonable Sayings Sober Soberness Speak Speaking True. Truth Utter Wise WordsJump to Next Boldly Crazy Declare Excellent Festus Forth Insane Mad Mind Noble Paul Reasonable Sayings Sober Soberness Speak Speaking True. Truth Utter Wise WordsActs 26 1. Paul, in the presence of Agrippa, declares his life from his childhood;12. and how miraculously he was converted, and called to his apostleship. 24. Festus charges him with being insane, whereunto he answers modestly. 28. Agrippa is almost persuaded to be a Christian. 31. The whole company pronounces him innocent. But Paul answered Paul's response is a direct and respectful reply to Festus, the Roman governor. 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 most excellent Festus I am speaking words of truth and sobriety Persons / Places / Events 1. PaulThe 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. Festus 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. King Agrippa Herod Agrippa II, the Jewish king who is present at Paul's defense. He is familiar with Jewish customs and the prophets. 4. Caesarea The location where Paul is being held and where this trial takes place. It was a significant city in Roman Judea. 5. Paul's Defense The event where Paul is making his case for the gospel and his own sanity, asserting the truth of his message about Jesus Christ. Teaching Points The Importance of Truth and SobrietyPaul emphasizes that his message is grounded in truth and reason. As Christians, we are called to present the gospel with clarity and integrity. Responding to Skepticism with Respect Paul addresses Festus respectfully, even when accused of insanity. This teaches us to engage with critics respectfully and thoughtfully. The Power of Personal Testimony Paul's defense is rooted in his personal encounter with Christ. Our testimonies are powerful tools for witnessing to others. Courage in the Face of Opposition Despite being on trial, Paul boldly proclaims the gospel. We are encouraged to stand firm in our faith, even when facing challenges. Understanding the Audience Paul tailors his message to his audience, knowing their background and beliefs. We should be mindful of our audience when sharing the gospel. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Acts 26:25?2. How does Paul's response in Acts 26:25 demonstrate confidence in his faith? 3. What can we learn from Paul's calm demeanor when defending his beliefs? 4. How does Acts 26:25 connect to 1 Peter 3:15 about defending faith? 5. How can we apply Paul's example in Acts 26:25 to modern-day evangelism? 6. What strategies can we use to remain composed when our faith is challenged? 7. How does Acts 26:25 affirm the rationality of Christian faith? 8. What historical context supports Paul's defense in Acts 26:25? 9. How does Acts 26:25 challenge the perception of faith as irrational? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Acts 26? 11. What are the Bible's teachings on false accusations? 12. Does Festus’s accusation in Acts 26:24 suggest that Paul’s claims are too extraordinary to be taken seriously? 13. How reliable is Luke's account of Paul's defense in Acts 26:30-32, given the limited external historical corroboration? 14. How can one heal from being hurt by the church? What Does Acts 26:25 Mean But Paul answered• Luke records a calm, deliberate response from Paul right after Festus shouted, “You are out of your mind, Paul!” (Acts 26:24). • The immediacy of “But Paul answered” underscores Paul’s readiness “to make a defense to everyone who asks” (1 Peter 3:15). • Scripture presents this courtroom scene as real history, affirming that Paul’s words are accurately preserved (Acts 24:10; Luke 1:1-4). I am not insane • Paul refutes the charge of madness, asserting a sound, Spirit-governed mind (2 Timothy 1:7). • His denial parallels the moment when Jesus’ family thought He was “out of His mind” (Mark 3:21), showing that accusations of insanity often meet bold truth. • Paul had earlier written, “If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you” (2 Corinthians 5:13), highlighting the difference between spiritual fervor and actual irrationality. most excellent Festus • Paul addresses the governor with formal honor, following the example of “most excellent Theophilus” (Luke 1:3) and obeying God’s command to “honor the emperor” (1 Peter 2:17). • Respectful speech strengthens Christian witness before civil authorities (Romans 13:1-7; Acts 24:3). • By acknowledging Festus’s position, Paul models how to stay polite without compromising truth. I am speaking words of truth and sobriety • Truth: Paul’s testimony about Jesus’ death and resurrection is factual, “not cleverly devised myths” (2 Peter 1:16). • Sobriety: His reasoning is balanced and clear-minded, matching the call to “be self-controlled and sober-minded” (1 Peter 4:7; Titus 2:12). • Gospel facts—fulfilled prophecy, eyewitness accounts (1 Corinthians 15:3-8), and transformed lives—prove both truth and rationality (John 17:17; 1 Timothy 2:7). • Paul’s confidence rests on the literal fulfillment of Scripture, inviting Festus—and every listener—to embrace that same truth. summary Paul’s reply in Acts 26:25 shows a respectful yet unflinching defense of the gospel. He denies insanity, honors authority, and insists his message is both true and rational. The verse reminds believers to couple unwavering confidence in Scripture with courteous, sober speech whenever the truth of Christ is challenged. (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 (Acts 24:3). The painful experience of Acts 23:3 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 Acts 24:25, 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. 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 Acts 23:26; Acts 24:3). St. Luke also applies it to Theophilus (Luke 1:3). 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 (Mark 5:15; Luke 8:35; 2 Corinthians 5:13, etc.), and of σωφρονίζειν σωφρωνισμός σώφρων, etc. So also in Plato, σωφρωσύνη is opposed to μανία.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek Butδὲ (de) Conjunction Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc. Paul Παῦλος (Paulos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 3972: 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 Strong's 5346: 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 Strong's 3756: 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 Strong's 3105: 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 Strong's 2903: Superlative of a derivative of kratos; strongest, i.e. very honorable. Festus; Φῆστε (Phēste) Noun - Vocative Masculine Singular Strong's 5347: Festus. Of Latin derivation; festal; Phestus, a Roman. I am speaking ἀποφθέγγομαι (apophthengomai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular Strong's 669: To speak out, declare. From apo and phtheggomai; to enunciate plainly, i.e. Declare. words ῥήματα (rhēmata) Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural Strong's 4487: From rheo; an utterance, ; by implication, a matter or topic; with a negative naught whatever. of truth ἀληθείας (alētheias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular Strong's 225: From alethes; truth. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. sobriety. σωφροσύνης (sōphrosynēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular Strong's 4997: Soundness of mind, sanity; self-control, sobriety. From sophron; soundness of mind, i.e. sanity or self-control. Links Acts 26:25 NIVActs 26:25 NLT Acts 26:25 ESV Acts 26:25 NASB Acts 26:25 KJV Acts 26:25 BibleApps.com Acts 26:25 Biblia Paralela Acts 26:25 Chinese Bible Acts 26:25 French Bible Acts 26:25 Catholic Bible NT Apostles: Acts 26:25 But he said I am not crazy (Acts of the Apostles Ac) |
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