Acts 26:25 – “I am not insane, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and reasonable.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Paul is responding to Festus, the Roman governor, who had just interrupted him, accusing him of being out of his mind (Acts 26:24). Festus thought that Paul’s message—especially about the resurrection of Jesus—was nonsense. But Paul stands firm, calmly and respectfully answering the charge.

Paul’s response has two key points:

1. He denies the accusation of insanity. Paul was not ranting or confused. He was speaking with clarity, conviction, and deep understanding.
2. He affirms that the gospel is both “true and reasonable.” The message of Jesus Christ is not based on myths or emotions—it is based on truth and can stand up to logical scrutiny.

This verse shows Paul’s confidence in the truth of the gospel. Even in the face of mockery, he does not shrink back. Instead, he boldly asserts that what he is saying is both factual and rational.

Historical Context

Paul is on trial before King Agrippa and Governor Festus after being imprisoned for preaching about Jesus. The Jewish leaders wanted Paul executed, but the Romans were unsure how to handle the situation.

Festus, a Roman, struggled to understand Paul’s belief in Jesus’ resurrection. In Roman thinking, a man rising from the dead was absurd. To Festus, Paul’s intense passion and deep knowledge seemed like madness.

Paul, however, was not an uneducated fanatic—he was one of the most highly trained Jewish scholars of his time (Philippians 3:5-6). His response to Festus was calm and logical, showing that Christianity is not just a blind leap of faith but is based on truth that can be examined and defended.

Theological Implications

1. Christianity is based on truth. Paul insists that his message is true and reasonable (John 17:17).
2. Faith and reason are not opposites. The gospel is not just an emotional experience—it is rooted in historical fact and prophecy (Isaiah 1:18).
3. Boldness in faith is necessary. Paul does not let Festus’ insult discourage him; instead, he keeps proclaiming the truth (2 Timothy 1:7).

Paul’s words remind us that faith in Jesus is not blind—it is built on truth, logic, and evidence.

Literary Analysis

• “I am not insane, most excellent Festus.” Paul remains respectful even when falsely accused. He does not respond with anger but with calm assurance.
• “What I am saying is true and reasonable.” Paul presents the gospel as something that makes sense, not just something to be accepted blindly.
• This verse is part of a dialogue where Paul defends the truth of Christianity against skepticism and mockery—a situation many believers still face today.

Biblical Cross-References

• Isaiah 1:18 – “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord.” (God invites us to think through our faith.)
• John 17:17 – “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” (God’s word is absolute truth.)
• 1 Peter 3:15 – “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (We are called to explain our faith with logic and clarity.)
• 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” (Like Paul, we are called to stand firm in faith.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. We must stand firm in the truth. The world may mock Christianity, but we must remain confident in our faith.
2. Our faith is reasonable. Christianity is not based on emotion or wishful thinking—it is based on historical events, fulfilled prophecy, and a risen Savior.
3. We should respond to opposition with respect and clarity. Paul did not get defensive—he calmly spoke the truth. When we face criticism, we should answer with grace and wisdom.

In a world where Christianity is often dismissed, this verse challenges us to know what we believe and stand confidently in it.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

• God invites us to seek the truth. Christianity is not about blind faith—God encourages us to examine His word and ask questions.
• God strengthens His people in times of challenge. Paul was able to stay strong because God was with him. In the same way, God helps us stand firm in faith.
• God’s truth is unshakable. No matter how the world reacts, the gospel remains true (Matthew 24:35).

God’s love is shown in His willingness to reveal truth to us and strengthen us when we are challenged.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul’s response is similar to how Jesus defended Himself before those who accused Him:

1. Jesus was also accused of being out of His mind. (Mark 3:21 – “He is out of his mind,” his own family said.)
2. Jesus was calm in the face of opposition. (John 18:37 – Jesus answered Pilate with truth, not anger.)
3. Jesus is the ultimate truth. (John 14:6 – “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”)

Paul was simply following Jesus’ example—standing firm in the truth even when others mocked or misunderstood him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever faced criticism for your faith? How did you respond?
2. Why do you think some people view Christianity as foolish or unreasonable?
3. How can you grow in your ability to explain your faith logically and clearly?
4. What can we learn from Paul’s calm and respectful response?
5. How does knowing that Christianity is true and reasonable strengthen your faith?

This verse is a powerful reminder that the gospel is not just true—it is reasonable, logical, and worthy of our trust. Like Paul, we must stand firm in our faith, even when the world does not understand.