Festus
said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are crazy! Your great learning is driving you insane!”
Acts 26:24
Acts 26 [19.] “Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but declared first to them of Damascus, at Jerusalem, and throughout all the country of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, doing works worthy of repentance. For this reason the Jews seized me in the temple, and tried to kill me. Having therefore obtained the help that is from God, I stand to this day testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would happen, how the Christ must suffer, and how, by the resurrection of the dead, he would be first to proclaim light both to these people and to the Gentiles.”
Acts 26 [24.] As he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are crazy! Your great learning is driving you insane!”
Acts 26 [25.] But he said, “I am not crazy, most excellent Festus, but boldly declare words of truth and reasonableness. For the king knows of these things, to whom also I speak freely. For I am persuaded that none of these things is hidden from him, for this has not been done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.”
Meaning:
This verse captures a dramatic moment during Paul’s defense before King Agrippa and Festus, highlighting the tension and misunderstandings that often accompanied his testimony.
Audience: Paul is speaking before King Agrippa II, who is accompanied by Festus, the Roman governor, and other prominent figures. This is a pivotal moment in Paul’s legal saga, where he has the opportunity to present his defense and share the gospel.
Paul’s Defense: Earlier in the chapter, Paul recounts his conversion experience on the road to Damascus, his mission to the Gentiles, and his unwavering faith in Christ. His testimony is both a defense and a proclamation of the gospel.
- Background to Festus’ Outburst:
Paul’s Boldness: As Paul speaks, he passionately defends his faith and mission, recounting his transformation from a persecutor of Christians to an ardent apostle of Christ. His boldness and the depth of his message provoke a reaction from Festus.
Festus’ Response: Festus, perhaps overwhelmed by Paul’s intense defense and the spiritual depth of his message, interrupts, declaring Paul mad. His statement reflects the common perception of Paul’s teachings as irrational or fanatic.
Significance
- Festus’ Dismissal:
Accusation of Madness: Festus’ reaction — calling Paul mad — underscores the skepticism and misunderstanding that often met Paul’s message. The concept of “madness” was a common way to dismiss ideas that were seen as irrational or counter-cultural.
Cultural and Intellectual Divide: Festus’ comment highlights the divide between the worldview of the Roman authorities and Paul’s radical, gospel-centered message. It illustrates how the message of Christ, with its call to repentance and new life, often clashed with prevailing cultural norms.
- Paul’s Response:
Composure and Clarity: Despite Festus’ outburst, Paul remains composed, continuing to defend his faith with clarity and grace. His response underscores his confidence in the truth of the gospel and his commitment to proclaiming it, regardless of the audience’s reaction.
Appeal to Reason and Faith: Paul’s defense is not just a legal argument but also a profound appeal to reason, faith, and the power of God. He challenges Festus and Agrippa to consider the evidence of Christ’s resurrection and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Theological Reflection
- The Power of the Gospel:
Divine Wisdom vs. Human Foolishness: Paul’s defense illustrates the paradox of the gospel — that what the world considers foolishness is, in fact, the power of God for salvation. 1 Corinthians 1:18 states, “For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
Transformation and Witness: Paul’s life is a testimony to the transformative power of the gospel. His journey from persecutor to apostle is a living example of how God can change lives, turning enemies into fervent witnesses for Christ.
- Challenges to Faith and Reason:
Faith Amidst Opposition: Paul’s experience encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even when faced with ridicule or opposition. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
The Call to Apologetics: Paul’s approach to defending his faith exemplifies the importance of apologetics — the reasoned defense of the Christian faith. 1 Peter 3:15 advises, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.”
Practical Applications
- Engaging with Skepticism:
Responding with Gentleness and Respect: When faced with skepticism or hostility, Paul’s example teaches us to respond with gentleness and respect. Ephesians 4:15 urges, “But speaking the truth in love, we may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, even Christ.”
Staying Grounded in Truth: Like Paul, we should be grounded in the truth of Scripture and the power of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to stand firm in our faith and articulate our beliefs with conviction.
- Living Out Our Testimony:
Consistency in Witness: Paul’s unwavering commitment to his calling serves as a model for us. Whether in public or private, our lives should reflect the truth and love of Christ, making our testimony compelling to those around us.
Boldness in Sharing the Gospel: Let us take inspiration from Paul’s boldness to share the gospel fearlessly. Acts 4:29 encourages us, “Now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness.”
Cross-References:
1 Corinthians 1:18-25: "For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, ‘I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.’ Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Hasn’t God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For seeing that in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom didn’t know God, it was God’s good pleasure through the foolishness of the preaching to save those who believe. For Jews ask for signs, and Greeks seek after wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews, and foolishness to Greeks; but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God." This passage underscores the contrast between worldly wisdom and the wisdom of God revealed in the cross of Christ.
2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. From now on, the crown of righteousness is stored up for me, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day; and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved his appearing.” Paul’s reflection on his journey reinforces his unwavering commitment to his faith and mission.
Philippians 1:21: "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Paul’s perspective on life and death encapsulates his radical commitment to Christ, regardless of the cost.
Conclusion: Acts 26:24 is a moment of stark contrast and powerful testimony. Festus’ reaction to Paul’s defense highlights the tension between the gospel’s message and the world’s wisdom. Yet, Paul’s calm and resolute response showcases the strength of faith and the compelling nature of the gospel. As we navigate our own challenges and share our faith, may we be inspired by Paul’s example to remain steadfast, bold, and unwavering in our testimony, trusting that God’s truth will prevail.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible