Homilist Acts 26:24-25 And as he thus spoke for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, you are beside yourself; much learning does make you mad.… Concerning the two duellists in the text, notice — 1. Both were signally able men. The speech of Festus (see Acts 25:27) shows this, and the high position to which his abilities had raised him. Paul was not less able, but even more so. 2. Both were well known. 3. Both had distinguished spectators. There were present Agrippa, the king, "the chief captains," and the principal men of the city." I. AS SECULARISM REPRESENTED IN THE ATTACK OF THE ONE. Festus was a man of the world, a worldling, a strong, enlightened, talented secularist. Two remarks concerning this attack. 1. It was dealt out by a man of distinguished power. 2. It was prompted by motives that seemed reasonable. II. AS CHRISTIANITY REPRESENTED IN THE DEFENCE OF THE OTHER. Two remarks are suggested. 1. The defence was direct. Paul says, "I am not mad." 2. The defence was rational. He says, "I speak forth the words of truth and soberness." 3. The defence was respectful. Paul addresses his accuser as "most noble [R.V., excellent] Festus." (Homilist.) Parallel Verses KJV: And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. |
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