Bible Strands
Acts 26:25
But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul addresses Governor Festus during his formal defense, responding immediately after Festus loudly accuses him of being driven mad by his own extensive learning.
The words — Paul uses οὐ (ou) with μαίνομαί (mainomai) to literally deny being insane, and addresses Festus as κράτιστε (kratiste), a formal title meaning "most excellent."
The thread — This combination of sober defense and respectful address appears in Acts 23:26 and mirrors the call to sound teaching and integrity in Titus 1:9 and Titus 2:7.
Why it lands — The text explicitly states Paul’s claim of truth and sobriety before any interpreter notes the contrast with Festus’s emotional outburst, demanding that readers assess religious claims against factual accuracy and self-control rather than emotional intensity.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.
Cross-references
- Acts 23:26 Claudius Lysias, To His Excellency, Governor Felix: Greetings.
- Titus 1:9 He must hold firmly to the faithful word as it was taught, so that he can encourage others by sound teaching and refute those who contradict it.
- Titus 2:7 In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works. In your teaching show integrity, dignity,
- 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,
- John 8:49 “I do not have a demon,” Jesus replied, “but I honor My Father, and you dishonor Me.
- Acts 24:3 In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude.
- 1 Peter 2:21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps:
- 1 Peter 3:9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
- 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,