But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.

ACTS 26:25KJV
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Acts 26:25 (KJV)

What does Acts 26:25 mean?

Acts 26:25 records Paul respectfully denying that he is insane, assuring Festus that his words are true and reasonable. Paul insists that he is speaking honestly and with clear-minded judgment, not out of madness.

In this moment, Paul is on trial before the Roman governor Festus and King Agrippa. Festus has just accused Paul of being out of his mind because of his passionate defense and claims about Jesus’ resurrection. Paul responds directly to Festus, addressing him as “most noble Festus,” and calmly explains that his testimony is grounded in truth and sound thinking.

The Greek behind Acts 26:25

  • “mad” (μαίνομαι, mainomai): This word often means to be insane or out of one’s mind. Paul’s denial shows he is aware of how incredible his claims sound but asserts his mental clarity.
  • “soberness” (σωφροσύνη, sōphrosynē): This Greek word points to soundness of mind, self-control, and rational thinking. Paul emphasizes that his message is not only true but also reasonable and thoughtful.
  • “truth” (ἀλήθεια, alētheia): This word means factual reality or what is genuinely the case. Paul claims his message is based on actual events, not imagination or delusion.

Why Acts 26:25 matters

  • Acts 26:25 clears up the idea that Paul was simply a fanatic or mentally unstable; he directly addresses this accusation and claims rationality.
  • The verse highlights Paul’s respectful approach, even when falsely accused, by calling Festus “most noble,” which shows his composure and respect for authority.
  • This moment connects to the larger theme in Acts of the apostles defending their faith with reason and truth, not just emotion or blind belief.

Where else these words appear

“forth” Greek G669 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
  • Acts 2:14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:

“soberness” Greek G4997 · used in 3 verses

  • 1 Timothy 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
  • 1 Timothy 2:15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

“noble” Greek G2903 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 1:3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
  • Acts 23:26 Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.
  • Acts 24:3 We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

“am” Greek G3105 · used in 5 verses

  • John 10:20 And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him?
  • Acts 12:15 And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel.
  • Acts 26:24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.