How should we respond when our faith is dismissed as "insane"? Setting the Scene—Paul Before Festus “At this stage of Paul’s defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, ‘You are out of your mind, Paul! Your great learning is driving you to madness!’ But Paul replied, ‘I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sober judgment.’” What We Learn from Paul’s Calm Reply • Respectful address: “most excellent Festus” • Clear denial of the charge without agitation • Confidence that the gospel is “truth” and “sober judgment,” not fantasy • Implicit invitation to examine the evidence—Paul had just rehearsed Christ’s death and resurrection Why the World Calls Us Crazy • John 15:18—“If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first.” • 1 Corinthians 1:18—“The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing.” • 2 Corinthians 5:13—“If we are out of our mind, it is for God.” • Even Jesus’ own family said, “He is out of His mind” (Mark 3:21). Guidelines for Our Response Today • Expect misunderstanding; it confirms we follow a crucified Lord. • Stay courteous: harsh words only confirm the charge of irrationality. • Stand on Scripture’s truth; do not dilute or apologize for it (2 Timothy 3:16). • Offer reasoned explanation: “Always be prepared to give a defense…with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). • Share personal testimony, as Paul did (Acts 26:29). • Pray and trust God to open blinded eyes (2 Corinthians 4:6). Remember, We’re in Good Company • Prophets called madmen (2 Kings 9:11). • Apostles labeled fools: “We are fools for Christ” (1 Corinthians 4:10). • Early church believers “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). Turning Accusations into Opportunities Practical steps: 1. Memorize anchor verses (Acts 26:25; 1 Corinthians 1:18). 2. Keep a calm tone and steady eye contact—visible sobriety undercuts the “insane” label. 3. Ask listeners to examine the historical evidence for the resurrection. 4. Demonstrate a consistent, loving lifestyle that makes the gospel plausible (Matthew 5:16). 5. Leave results to the Holy Spirit; persuasion is His work (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Closing Encouragement When someone calls our faith “insane,” Scripture assures us we are standing exactly where God’s people have always stood—on truth that appears foolish to the world but is “the power of God” to salvation. |
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