At this point in Paul’s defense, Festus declared with a loud voice, “You’ve lost your mind, Paul! Too much learning is driving you mad!” But Paul replied, “I’m not mad, most honorable Festus! I’m speaking what is sound and true. King Agrippa knows about these things, and I have been speaking openly to him. I’m certain that none of these things have escaped his attention. This didn’t happen secretly or in some out-of-the-way place. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” Agrippa said to Paul, “Are you trying to convince me that, in such a short time, you’ve made me a Christian?” Paul responded, “Whether it is a short or a long time, I pray to God that not only you but also all who are listening to me today will become like me, except for these chains.” (Acts 26:24-29, CEB)
Are you mad?
Have you lost your mind?
Have you ever spoken about Jesus to someone and they asked you these questions?
Paul was giving a defense of Christianity to Festus and Agrippa, and Agrippa, seriously or sarcastically, says that he is becoming a Christian. (This is one of the few times the word Christian is even used in the New Testament, and it is used by someone who is not a follower.)
And Paul says yes I hope that not only you Agrippa but everyone listening to him would be like him and follow after Jesus, except that they would be free. You see Paul was arrested in Jerusalem, according to Acts to protect him from other believers, and went on a journey through the powers that be to Roman. But the point I think this snippet is trying to make is that we should share our faith so boldly and unashamedly that people call us mad, and say we have learned to much.
Share your faith.
Loving People. Loving God.
aSacredRebel 