Festus Interrupts Paul’s Defense
Festus interrupts loudly and says Paul’s great learning has driven him mad, but Paul answers that he speaks true and sober words and appeals to Agrippa’s knowledge of these matters. He presses Agrippa on belief in the prophets, and when Agrippa responds with distance, Paul says he wishes all who hear him might become as he is, except for his chains.
A24t this stage of Paul’s defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You are insane, Paul! Your great learning is driving you to madness!” 25But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. 26For the king knows about these matters, and I can speak freely to him. I am confident that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. 27King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” 28Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?” 29“Short time or long,” Paul replied, “I wish to God that not only you but all who hear me this day may become what I am, except for these chains.”
When the hearing ends, the king, governor, Bernice, and the others withdraw and say together that Paul has done nothing deserving death or imprisonment. Agrippa then tells Festus that Paul could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar.
30Then the king and the governor rose, along with Bernice and those seated with them. 31On their way out, they said to one another, “This man has done nothing worthy of death or imprisonment.” 32And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar.”