Devine Scripture

Acts 26:25

What does Acts 26:25 mean?

A plain-English look at Acts 26:25 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Acts 26:25 means

Paul responds with composure, denying madness and asserting that he speaks words of truth and soberness. He does not match Festus’s volume or scorn; he appeals to reason and reality. The Christian message involves profound mysteries, but it is not irrational. Paul’s defense rests on facts—Jesus’ public ministry, death, and reported resurrection—interpreted through Scripture. By insisting on sobriety, Paul claims mental soundness and invites fair judgment. His answer models how to engage skepticism: respectful, clear, and firmly grounded. He will now direct attention to Agrippa, whose knowledge of Jewish history and expectation can test the credibility of Paul’s claims.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But Paul saith, I am not mad, most excellent Festus; but speak forth words of truth and soberness.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But Paul saith, I am not mad, most excellent Festus; but speak forth words of truth and soberness.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Then Paul said, I am not off my head, most noble Festus, but my words are true and wise.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and he saith, `I am not mad, most noble Festus, but of truth and soberness the sayings I speak forth;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And Paul said: I am not mad, most excellent Festus, but I speak words of truth and soberness.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But Paul said, I am not mad, most excellent Festus, but utter words of truth and soberness;

Context

This calm reply counters Festus’s accusation (v.24) and pivots the conversation back to the central claims. Next, Paul will appeal to Agrippa’s familiarity with these matters (v.26), arguing that the events did not occur in secret. He then challenges Agrippa about belief in the prophets (v.27). The flow goes from challenge to the message’s rationality to an appeal to known public facts and prophetic authority.

v.24And as he thus made his defence, Festus saith with a loud voice, Paul, thou art mad; thy much learning is turning thee mad.

v.25This passage

v.26For the king knoweth of these things, unto whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things is hidden from him; for this hath not been done in a corner.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 1 Peter 3:15

    but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord: being ready always to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, yet with meekness and fear:

  • Luke 1:3

    it seemed good to me also, having traced the course of all things accurately from the first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus;

  • John 8:49

    Jesus answered, I have not a demon; but I honor my Father, and ye dishonor me.

  • Titus 2:7

    in all things showing thyself an ensample of good works; in thy doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity,

  • 1 Peter 3:9

    not rendering evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but contrariwise blessing; for hereunto were ye called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

  • 1 Peter 2:21

    For hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that ye should follow his steps:

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