How does Paul's response in Acts 26:25 demonstrate confidence in his faith? Background: Paul on Trial • Paul has been imprisoned for preaching Christ (Acts 24–26). • He now stands before Festus and King Agrippa, sharing his testimony. • Festus interrupts, accusing Paul of being insane because of his “great learning” (Acts 26:24). Paul’s Immediate Reply (Acts 26:25) “I am not insane, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “I am speaking words of truth and sobriety.” Marks of Confidence Revealed in Paul’s Response • Calm composure – Instead of protesting angrily, Paul speaks with respectful address (“most excellent Festus”), showing inner peace (cf. Isaiah 26:3). • Clear assertion of sanity – He openly states, “I am not insane,” rejecting the charge without hesitation or apology. • Appeal to truth – Paul is certain his words align with reality: “I am speaking words of truth.” His assurance rests on the literal, historical resurrection of Jesus (Acts 26:22–23). • Emphasis on reason – The term translated “sobriety” (or “sound judgment”) highlights logical clarity. Faith is reasonable, not blind (cf. Isaiah 1:18; 1 Peter 3:15). • Public boldness – Paul testifies before powerful officials, demonstrating the courage Jesus promised to His witnesses (Acts 1:8; Matthew 10:18–19). Scriptural Threads That Reinforce Paul’s Confidence • Acts 26:26 – “The king knows about these matters… I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice.” Paul expects verification because the events were public. • 2 Timothy 1:12 – “I know Whom I have believed and am convinced…” Same author, same settled certainty. • Romans 1:16 – “I am not ashamed of the gospel.” That conviction pulses through his defense before Festus. • Acts 23:11 – The Lord had already stood by Paul, promising he would testify in Rome; Paul now leans on that promise. • Acts 4:19–20 – Earlier apostles declared they could not help but speak; Paul lives out that precedent. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Confidence grows out of knowing the gospel is historically true and rational. • Respectful tone enhances, not weakens, bold witness. • God’s promises sustain courage when authority figures challenge faith. • A clear conscience (Acts 23:1) empowers believers to speak plainly and calmly. • Truth and reason are allies in gospel proclamation; Scripture invites honest investigation. Summary Paul’s short answer in Acts 26:25 brims with assurance: he is mentally sound, his message is undeniably true, and it rests on solid, reasonable grounds. Standing before earthly power, he relies on a higher Authority, demonstrating unwavering confidence in Christ and in the factual, rational foundation of the gospel. |
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