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Acts 26:25

Acts 26:25 in Multiple Translations

But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety.

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

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

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

“I'm not mad, Festus your Excellency,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and makes sense.

But he said, I am not mad, O noble Festus, but I speake the wordes of trueth and sobernes.

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

But he said, “I am not crazy, most excellent Festus, but boldly declare words of truth and reasonableness.

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

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

But Paul answered, “Your Excellency, Festus, I am not raving insanely. On the contrary, what I am saying is true and sensible!

But Paul said, “No, Festus, sir, I’m not crazy. I’m talking in a true and sensible way.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Acts 26:25

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Acts 26:25 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
GRK ο δε ου μαινομαι φησιν κρατιστε φηστε αλλα αληθειας και σωφροσυνης ρηματα αποφθεγγομαι
ο ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NSM
δε de G1161 then Conj
ου ou G3756 no Particle-N
μαινομαι mainomai G3105 to rave Verb-PNI-1S
φησιν phēmi G5346 to assert Verb-PAI-3S
κρατιστε kratistos G2903 excellent Adj-VSM-S
φηστε Phēstos G5347 Festus Noun-VSM
αλλα alla G235 but Conj
αληθειας alētheia G225 truth Noun-GSF
και kai G2532 and Conj
σωφροσυνης sōphrosunē G4997 mental soundness Noun-GSF
ρηματα rhēma G4487 declaration Noun-APN
αποφθεγγομαι apophthengomai G669 to declare Verb-PNI-1S
Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — Acts 26:25

ο ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NSM
The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.
Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.
δε de G1161 "then" Conj
This is a conjunction that means and, but, or then, used to connect ideas like in Matthew 1:2 and 2 Corinthians 6:15.
Definition: δέ (before vowels δ᾽; on the general neglect of the elision in NT, see WH, App., 146; Tdf., Pr., 96), post-positive conjunctive particle; __1. copulative, but, in the next place, and, now (Abbott, JG, 104): Mat.1:2ff., 2Co.6:15, 16, 2Pe.1:5-7; in repetition for emphasis, Rom.3:21, 22, 9:30, 1Co.2:6, Gal.2:2, Php.2:8; in transition to something new, Mat.1:18, 2:19, Luk.13:1, Jhn.7:14, Act.6:1, Rom.8:28, 1Co.7:1 8:1, al.; in explanatory parenthesis or addition, Jhn.3:19, Rom.5:8, 1Co.1:12, Eph.2:4, 5:32, al.; ὡς δέ, Jhn.2:9; καὶ . . . δέ, but also, Mat.10:18, Luk.1:76, Jhn.6:51, Rom.11:23, al.; καὶ ἐὰν δέ, yea even if, Jhn.8:16. __2. Adversative, but, on the other hand, prop., answering to a foregoing μέν (which see), and distinguishing a word or clause from one preceding (in NT most frequently without μέν; Bl., §77, 12): ἐὰν δέ, Mat.6:14, 23, al.; ἐγὼ (σὺ, etc.) δέ, Mat.5:22, 6:6, Mrk.8:29, al.; ὁ δέ, αὐτὸς δέ, Mrk.1:45, Luk.4:40, al.; after a negation, Mat.6:19, 20, Rom.3:4, 1Th.5:21, al. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 2552 NT verses. KJV: also, and, but, moreover, now (often unexpressed in English) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:10; 1 Corinthians 12:9; 1 Peter 1:7.
ου ou G3756 "no" Particle-N
This is a strong 'no', used to deny something completely. It appears in the New Testament, such as in Matthew 13:29 and John 1:21. It is a negative answer to a question.
Definition: οὐ, before a vowel with smooth breathing οὐκ, before one with rough breathing οὐχ (but improperly οὐχ ἰδού, Act.2:7, WH, mg.; cf. WH, Intr., §409; M, Pr., 44, 244), [in LXX for אֵין ,אַיִן ,לֹא ;] neg. particle, not, no, used generally with indic, and for a denial of fact (cf . μή); __1. absol. (accented), οὔ, no: Mat.13:29 Jhn.1:21 21:5; οὒ οὕ, Mat.5:37 Jas.5:12. __2. Most frequently negativing a verb or other word, Mat.1:25 10:26, 38, Mrk.3:25 9:37, Jhn.8:29, Act.7:5, Rom.1:16, Php.3:3, al.; in litotes, οὐκ ὀλίγοι (i.e. very many), Act.17:4, al.; οὐκ ἄσημος, Act.21:39; πᾶς . . . οὐ, with verb, (like Heb. כֹּל . . . לֹא), no, none, Mat.24:22, Mrk.13:20, Luk.1:37, Eph.5:5, al.; in disjunctive statements, οὐκ . . . ἀλλά, Luk.8:52 Jhn.1:33 Rom.8:2o, al.; with 2 of person(s) fut. (like Heb. לֹא, with impf.), as emphatic prohibition, Mat.4:7, Luk.4:12, Rom.7:7, al. __3. With another negative, __(a) strengthening the negation: Mrk.5:37, Jhn.8:15 12:19, Act.8:39, al.; __(b) making an affirmative: Act.4:20, 1Co.12:15. __4. With other particles: οὐ μή (see: μή); οὐ μηκέτι, Mat.21:19; with μή interrog., Rom.10:18, 1Co.9:4, 5 11:22. __5. Interrogative, expecting an affirmative answer (Lat. nonne): Mat.6:26, Mrk.4:21, Luk.11:40, Jhn.4:35, Rom.9:21, al. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 1410 NT verses. KJV: + long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but See also: 1 Corinthians 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:32; 1 Peter 1:8.
μαινομαι mainomai G3105 "to rave" Verb-PNI-1S
To rave or be furious, like a mad person, as seen in John 10:29 and Acts 12:15. It means being beside oneself with anger or insanity. This word is used to describe extreme emotions.
Definition: μαίνομαι [in LXX: Jer.25:16 (הָלַל hith.) Jer.29:26 (שָׁגַע pu.), Wis.14:28, a). ;] __1. to rage, be furious. __2. to rave, be mad: Jhn.10:29, Act.12:15 26:24-25, 1Co.14:23 (cf. ἐμ-μαίνομαι).† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 5 NT verses. KJV: be beside self (mad) See also: 1 Corinthians 14:23; Acts 26:24; John 10:20.
φησιν phēmi G5346 "to assert" Verb-PAI-3S
To assert or declare, meaning to speak or say something, as seen in Matthew 13:29 and John 1:23. It is often used to quote someone's words or make a statement.
Definition: φημί [in LXX chiefly for נָאַם, also for אָמַר; frequently in 2-4 Mac ;] to declare, say: frequently in quoting the words of another, Mat.13:29 26:61, Luk.7:40 22:58, Jhn.1:23, al.; interjected into the recorded words (cl.), Mat.14:8, Act.23:35, al.; φησί, impersonal (Bl., § 30, 4), 1Co.6:16 (Lft., Notes, 217; but cf. Bl., l.with), 2Co.10:10 (WH, mg., φασίν), Heb.8:5; joined with syn. verb (cf. LS, see word, II, 2), ἀποκριθεὶς αὐτῷ ἔφη, Luk.23:3; before -πρός, Luk.22:70, al.; with accusative of thing(s), 1Co.10:15 10:19; accusative and inf., Rom.3:8; before ὅτι (Bl., § 70, 3), 1Co.10:19 15:50 (cf. σύν-φημι) (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 58 NT verses. KJV: affirm, say See also: 1 Corinthians 6:16; Acts 26:25; Hebrews 8:5.
κρατιστε kratistos G2903 "excellent" Adj-VSM-S
In the Bible, this word means excellent or noble, used to show great respect, as in Luke 1:3 and Acts 23:26. It describes someone of high dignity and honor. The word is used as a title of respect.
Definition: κράτιστος, -η, -ον superl, of κρατύς (Hom.), __1. strongest, mightiest (Hom.). __2. noblest, best (cf. κρείσσων), most excellent (find., Soph., al.): voc., κρατίστε, as title of honour and respect (DCG, ii, 727a), Luk.1:3, Act.23:26 24:3 26:25.† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 4 NT verses. KJV: most excellent (noble) See also: Acts 23:26; Acts 26:25; Luke 1:3.
φηστε Phēstos G5347 "Festus" Noun-VSM
Festus was a Roman procurator of Judaea, mentioned in Acts 24-26. He is known for his interactions with Paul. Festus succeeded Felix as procurator.
Definition: φῆστος, -ου, ὁ (Porcius), Festus, procurator of Judæa: Act.24:27 25:1 ff. Act.26:24-25, 32.† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 13 NT verses. KJV: Festus See also: Acts 24:27; Acts 25:14; Acts 26:32.
αλλα alla G235 "but" Conj
But is a strong opposing word, used in Matthew 5:15 and John 7:16. It shows contrast or surprise, like in the phrase 'but God' in Romans 3:31.
Definition: ἀλλά (ἀλλ᾽ usually bef. α and υ, often bef. ε and η, rarely bef. ο and ω, never bef. ι; Tdf., Pr., 93 f.; WH, App., 146), adversative particle, stronger than δέ; prop. neuter pl. of ἄλλος, used adverbially, with changed accent; hence prop. otherwise, on the other hand (cf. Rom.3:31); __1. opposing a previous negation, but: οὐ (μὴ) . . . ἀ., Mat.5:15, 17 Mrk.5:39, Jhn.7:16, al.; rhetorically subordinating but not entirely negativing what precedes, οὐ . . . ἀ., not so much . . . as, Mrk.9:37, Mat.10:20, Jhn.12:44, al.; with ellipse of the negation, Mat.11:7-9, Act.19:2, 1Co.3:6 6:11 7:7, 2Co.7:1, Gal.2:3, al.; in opposition to a foregoing pos. sentence, ἀ. οὐ, Mat.24:6, 1Co.10:23; οὐ μόνον . . . ἀ. καί, Jhn.5:18, Rom.1:32, al.; elliptically, after a negation, ἀ. ἵνα, Mrk.14:49, Jhn.1:8 9:3, al.; = εἰ μή (Bl., §77, 13; M, Pr., 241; but cf. WM, §iii, 10), Mat.20:23, Mrk.4:22. __2. Without previous negation, to express opposition, interruption, transition, etc., but: Jhn.16:20 12:27, Gal.2:14; before commands or requests, Act.10:20 26:16, Mat.9:18, Mrk.9:22, al.; to introduce an accessory idea, 2Co.7:11; in the apodosis after a condition or concession with εἰ, ἐάν, εἴπερ, yet, still, at least, Mrk.14:29, 1Co.9:2, 2Co.4:16, Col.2:5, al.; after μέν, Act.4:17, Rom.14:20, 1Co.14:17; giving emphasis to the following clause, ἀλλ᾽ ἔρχεται ὥρα, yea, etc., Jhn.16:2; so with neg., ἀλλ᾽ οὐδέ, nay, nor yet, Luk.23:15. __3. Joined with other particles (a practice which increases in late writers; Simcox, LNT, 166), ἀ. γε, yet at least, Luk.24:21, 1Co.9:2; ἄ ἤ., save only, except, Luk.12:51, 2Co.1:13; ἀ. μὲν οὖν, Php.3:8 (on this usage, see MM, VGT, see word). (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 603 NT verses. KJV: and, but (even), howbeit, indeed, nay, nevertheless, no, notwithstanding, save, therefore, yea, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:9; 1 Peter 1:15.
αληθειας alētheia G225 "truth" Noun-GSF
The Greek word for truth, meaning the reality of a matter, is used in Romans 9:1 and Galatians 2:5 to describe Christian doctrine. It can also mean truthfulness, as in being honest. Jesus teaches about truth in John 8:32.
Definition: ἀλήθεια, -ας, ἡ (ἀληθής), [in LXX chiefly for אֱמֶת (on which, see Cremer, 627f.), אֱמוּנָה ;] truth (see DB, iv, 818f.). __1. Objectively, "the reality lying at the basis of an appearance; the manifested, veritable essence of a matter" (Cremer, 86): Rom.9:1, al.; of religious truth, Rom.1:25, al.; esp. of Christian doctrine, Gal.2:5, al.; ἀ. θεοῦ, Rom.15:8. __2. Subjectively, truthfulness, truth, not merely verbal (cl.), but sincerity and integrity of character: Jhn.8:44, 3Jo.3. __3. In phrases (MM, VGT, see word): ἐπ᾽ ἀληθείας, Mrk.12:14, al.; ἀ. λέγειν (εἰπεῖν, λαλεῖν), Rom.9:1, 2Co.12:6, Eph.4:25, al.; ἀ. ποιεῖν, Jhn.3:21, 1Jn.1:6 (cf. DB, iv, 818b, ff.). (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 99 NT verses. KJV: true, X truly, truth, verity See also: 1 Corinthians 5:8; Ephesians 4:24; 1 Peter 1:22.
και kai G2532 "and" Conj
And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.
Definition: καί, conj., and __I. Copulative. __1. Connecting single words; __(a) in general: Mat.2:18, 16:1, Mrk.2:15, Luk.8:15, Heb.1:1, al. mult.; repeated before each of the terms in a series, Mat.23:23, Luk.14:21, Rom.7:12, 9:4, al. __(b) connecting numerals (WM, §37, 4): Jhn.2:20, Act.13:20; __(with) joining terms which are not mutually exclusive, as the part with the whole: Mat.8:33, 26:59, Mrk.16:17, Act.5:29, al. __2. Connecting clauses and sentences: Mat.3:12, Act.5:21, al. mult.; esp. __(a) where, after the simplicity of the popular language, sentences are paratactically joined (WM, §60, 3; M, Pr., 12; Deiss., LAE, 128ff.): Mat.1:21, 7:25, Mrk.9:5, Jhn.10:3, al.; __(b) joining affirmative to negative sentences: Luk.3:14, Jhn.4:11, IIIJhn.10; __(with) consecutive, and so: Mat.5:1, 23:32, Heb.3:19, al.; after imperatives, Mat.4:19, Luk.7:7, al.; __(d) = καίτοι, and yet: Mat.3:14, 6:26, Mrk.12:12, Luk.18:7 (Field, Notes, 72), 1Co.5:2, al.; __(e) beginning an apodosis (= Heb. וְ; so sometimes δέ in cl.), then: Luk.2:21, 7:12, Act.1:10; beginning a question (WM, §53, 3a): Mrk.10:26, Luk.10:29, Jhn.9:36. __3. Epexegetic, and, and indeed, namely (WM, §53, 3c): Luk.3:18, Jhn.1:16, Act.23:6, Rom.1:5, 1Co.3:5, al. __4. In transition: Mat.4:23, Mrk.5:1, 21, Jhn.1:19, al.; so, Hebraistically, καὶ ἐγένετο (וַי:הִי; also ἐγένετο δέ), Mrk.1:9 (cf. Luk.5:1; V. Burton, §§357-60; M, Pr., 14, 16). __5. καὶ . . . καί, both . . . and (for τε . . . καί, see: τε); __(a) connecting single words: Mat.10:28, Mrk.4:41, Rom.11:33, al.; __(b) clauses and sentences: Mrk.9:13, Jhn.7:28, 1Co.1:22, al. __II. Adjunctive, also, even, still: Mat.5:39, 40; Mrk.2:28, al. mult.; esp. with pron., adv., etc., Mat.20:4, Jhn.7:47, al; ὡς κ., Act.11:17; καθὼς κ., Rom.15:7; οὑτω κ., Rom.6:11; διὸ κ., Luk.1:35; ὁ κ. (Deiss., BS, 313ff.), Act.13:9; pleonastically, μετὰ κ.. (Bl., §77, 7; Deiss., BS, 265f,), Php.4:3; τί κ., 1 Co 15:29; ἀλλὰ κ., Luk.14:22, Jhn.5:18, al.; καίγε (M, Pr., 230; Burton, §437), Act.17:27; καίπερ, Heb.5:8; κ. ἐάν, see: ἐάν. ἐάν, contr. fr. εἰ ἄν, conditional particle, representing something as "under certain circumstances actual or liable to happen," but not so definitely expected as in the case of εἰ with ind. (Bl., §65, 4; cf. Jhn.13:17, 1Co.7:36), if haply, if; __1. with subjc. (cl.); __(a) pres.: Mat.6:22, Luk.10:6, Jhn.7:17, Rom.2:25, 26 al.; { __(b) aor. (= Lat. fut. pf.): Mat.4:9 16:26 (cf. ptcp. in Luk.9:25; M, Pr., 230), Mrk.3:24, Luk.14:34, Jhn.5:43, Rom.7:2, al.; = cl. εἰ, with opt., Jhn.9:22 11:57, Act.9:2; as Heb. אִם = ὅταν, Jhn.12:32 14:3, I Jhn.2:28 3:2, Heb.3:7" (LXX) . __2. C. indic, (as in late writers, fr. Arist. on; see WH, App., 171; VD, MGr. 2, App., §77; Deiss., BS, 201f., LAE, 155, 254; M, Pr., 168, 187; Bl., §65, 4); __(a) fut.: Mat.18:19 T, Luk.19:40, Act.7:7; __(b) pres.: 1Th.3:8 (see Milligan, in l.). __3. With other particles: ἐ. καί (Bl., §65, 6), Gal.6:1; ἐ. μή (M, Pr., 185, 187; Bl., l.with), with subjc. pres., Mat.10:13, 1Co.8:8, Jas.2:17, 1Jn.3:21; aor., Mat.6:15, Mrk.3:27, Jhn.3:3, Rom.10:15, Gal.1:8 2:16 (see Lft., Ellic., in ll.); ἐ. τε . . . ἐ. τε, [in LXX for אִם . . . אִם, Est.19:13, al.,] Rom.14:8. __4. = cl. ἄν (which see) after relat. pronouns and adverbs (Tdf., Pr., 96; WH, App., 173; M, Pr., 42f.; Bl., §26, 4; Mayser, 152f.; Deiss., BS, 202ff.): ὃς ἐ., Mat.5:19, Mrk.6:22, 23 Luk.17:32, 1Co.6:18, al.; ὅπου ἐ., Mat.8:19; ὁσάκις ἐ., Rev.11:6; οὗ ἐ., 1Co.16:6; καθὸ ἐ., 2Co.8:12; ὅστις ἐ., Gal.5:10. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.
σωφροσυνης sōphrosunē G4997 "mental soundness" Noun-GSF
Mental soundness means having a clear and level head, being sane and sensible, as seen in Acts 26:25 and 1 Timothy 2:9-15.
Definition: σωφροσύνη, -ης, ἡ [in LXX: Est.3:13, Wis.8:7, 2Ma.4:37, 4Ma.6:1-35 * ;] __(a) soundness of mind, good sense, sanity (opposite to μανία, Xen.): Act.26:25; __(b) self-control, sobriety: 1Ti.2:9 (see Tr., Syn., § xx), 1Ti.2:15.† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 3 NT verses. KJV: soberness, sobriety See also: 1 Timothy 2:9; 1 Timothy 2:15; Acts 26:25.
ρηματα rhēma G4487 "declaration" Noun-APN
A declaration or utterance is what this word means, like in Matthew 27:14 or 2 Corinthians 12:4. It's about something being said or spoken, like a word or command.
Definition: ῥῆμα, -τος, τό [in LXX chiefly for דָּבָר, also for פֶּה, and Aram. פִּתְגָּם, etc. ;] __1. prop., of that which is said or spoken, __(a) a word: Mat.27:14, 2Co.12:4; pl., τὰ ῥ., of speech, discourse, Luk.7:1, Jhn.8:20, Act.2:14, Rom.10:18, 2Pe.3:2, al.; __(b) opposite to ὄνομα (a single word), a saying, statement, word of prophecy, instruction or command (in cl., phrase): Mat.26:75, Mrk.9:32, Luk.1:38 2:50, Act.11:16, Rom.10:8, Heb.11:3; ῥ. θεοῦ (κυρίου), Luk.3:2, Act.11:16, Eph.6:17, Heb.6:5 11:3, 1Pe.1:25" (LXX) ; τὰ ῥ. τ. θεοῦ, Jhn.3:34 8:47; ῥ. ἀργόν, Mat.12:36;ῥ. ἄρρητα, 2Co.12:4. __2. Like Heb. דָּבָר (but perh. also a Gk. colloquialism, see Kennedy, Sources, 124; Thackeray, Gr., 41), of that which is the subject of speech, a thing, matter (Gen.15:1, Deu.17:8, al.): Luk.1:37 2:15, Act.10:37; pl., Luk.1:65 2:19, 51, Act.5:32 13:42 (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 66 NT verses. KJV: + evil, + nothing, saying, word See also: 1 Peter 1:25; John 14:10; Hebrews 1:3.
αποφθεγγομαι apophthengomai G669 "to declare" Verb-PNI-1S
To declare something means to speak it plainly and clearly, like the disciples did in Acts 2:4 and 2:14. This word is about expressing oneself openly and honestly, often about spiritual matters or faith.
Definition: ἀπο-φθέγγομαι [in LXX for נָבָא, etc. ;] to speak forth, give utterance: Act.2:4, 14 26:25 (MM, s. see).† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 3 NT verses. KJV: say, speak forth, utterance See also: Acts 2:4; Acts 2:14; Acts 26:25.

Study Notes — Acts 26:25

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Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Acts 23:26 Claudius Lysias, To His Excellency, Governor Felix: Greetings.
2 Titus 1:9 He must hold firmly to the faithful word as it was taught, so that he can encourage others by sound teaching and refute those who contradict it.
3 Titus 2:7–8 In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works. In your teaching show integrity, dignity, and wholesome speech that is above reproach, so that anyone who opposes us will be ashamed to have nothing bad to say about us.
4 1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect,
5 1 Peter 2:21–23 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps: “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.” When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.
6 Acts 24:3 In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude.
7 1 Peter 3:9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
8 John 8:49 “I do not have a demon,” Jesus replied, “but I honor My Father, and you dishonor Me.
9 Luke 1:3 Therefore, having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,

Acts 26:25 Summary

In this verse, Paul is telling Festus that he is not crazy, but rather, he is speaking the truth about Jesus and the gospel. Paul is saying that his words are based on reality and are spoken in a clear and sober manner, similar to how Jesus spoke the truth in love as seen in John 1:14. This means that Paul is being honest and sincere in what he is saying, and he is not speaking out of madness or confusion, but rather out of a deep conviction and faith, as seen in Acts 4:20. We can learn from Paul's example by speaking the truth in love and standing firm in our faith, even when faced with opposition, and trusting in God's sovereignty as seen in Romans 8:28.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Festus accusing Paul of in this context?

Festus was accusing Paul of being insane, implying that his great learning had driven him to madness, as seen in Acts 26:24. However, Paul responds by stating that he is speaking words of truth and sobriety, as seen in Acts 26:25.

What does Paul mean by 'words of truth and sobriety'?

Paul means that he is speaking words that are grounded in reality and are free from exaggeration or fanaticism, similar to the idea of speaking the truth in love as seen in Ephesians 4:15.

How does Paul's response reflect his character and faith?

Paul's response reflects his confidence in the truth of the gospel and his commitment to speaking the truth, even in the face of opposition, as seen in Acts 4:20 where Peter and John said 'we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard'.

What can we learn from Paul's example in this verse?

We can learn the importance of standing firm in our faith and speaking the truth, even when faced with criticism or opposition, and trusting in God's sovereignty as seen in Romans 8:28.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do I respond when people accuse me of being 'crazy' for my faith, and what can I learn from Paul's example in this verse?
  2. What are some ways that I can speak 'words of truth and sobriety' in my own life, and how can I apply this principle in my relationships with others?
  3. How can I, like Paul, trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when faced with difficult circumstances, and what role does faith play in this?
  4. In what ways can I demonstrate a similar confidence and conviction in my own faith, and what steps can I take to grow in this area?

Gill's Exposition on Acts 26:25

But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus,.... That is, Paul said, as the Alexandrian copy, and some others, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions read: he replied to Festus, to

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Acts 26:25

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

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Acts 26:25

St. Paul with all meekness makes his reply to the governer, and not taking notice of his sharp censuring of him, returns an answer in most respectful terms unto him; as his blessed Master, who, when he was reviled, reviled not again, . Soberness, in contradiction to madness; modestly waiving the reflection, and denying the charge Festus had laid upon him.

Trapp's Commentary on Acts 26:25

25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. Ver. 25. I am not mad] Paul rather pitieth his ignorance than blameth his blasphemy, and allegeth his own words for a proof of his non-madness; like as Sophocles produced a tragedy he had recently made, that was full of art and wit, when his sons would have begged him for a dotard. These real apologies are most powerful; when thus managed, especially, with "meekness of wisdom."

Ellicott's Commentary on Acts 26:25

(25) I am not mad, most noble Festus.—There is something characteristic in the union of a calm protest with the courtesy which gives to rulers the honour which is their due. Comp. the use of the same word by Tertullus (Acts 24:3). The painful experience of Act 23:3 had, we may well believe, taught the Apostle to control his natural impulses, and to keep watch over his lips, so that no unguarded utterance might escape from them. The words of truth and soberness.—The latter word was one of the favourite terms of Greek ethical writers, as having a higher meaning than the “temperance” of Acts 24:25, to express the perfect harmony of impulses and reason (Aristot. Eth. Nicom. iii. 10). Here it is contrasted with the “madness” of which Festus had spoken, looking, as he did, on the Apostle as an enthusiastic dreamer. There was doubtless a deep-lying enthusiasm in his character, but it was an enthusiasm which had its root not in madness, but in truth.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Acts 26:25

Verse 25. I am not mad, most noble Festus] This most sensible, appropriate, and modest answer, was the fullest proof he could give of his sound sense and discretion. The title, κρατιστε, most noble, or most excellent, which he gives to Festus, shows at once that he was far above indulging any sentiment of anger or displeasure at Festus, though he had called him a madman; and it shows farther that, with the strictest conscientiousness, even an apostle may give titles of respect to men in power, which taken literally, imply much more than the persons deserve to whom they are applied. κρατιστος, which implies most excellent, was merely a title which belonged to the office of Festus. St. Paul hereby acknowledges him as the governor; while, perhaps, moral excellence of any kind could with no propriety be attributed to him. Speak forth the words of truth and soberness.] αληθειαςκαισωφροσυνης, Words of truth and of mental soundness. The very terms used by the apostle would at once convince Festus that he was mistaken. The σωφροσυνη of the apostle was elegantly opposed to the μανια of the governor: the one signifying mental derangement, the other mental sanity. Never was an answer, on the spur of the moment, more happily conceived.

Cambridge Bible on Acts 26:25

25. most noble [R. V. excellent] Festus] The same title of respect which is given to Felix (Acts 23:26, Acts 24:3). As St Chrysostom remarks the Apostle now answers with gentleness, not as to the high priest (Acts 23:3).soberness] The word, in classical Greek, is the opposite to that “madness” unto which Festus had said Paul was turned.

Barnes' Notes on Acts 26:25

I am not mad - I am not deranged. There are few more happy turns than what Paul gives to this accusation of Festus.

Whedon's Commentary on Acts 26:25

25. Most noble—His civil title. Truth—In itself. Soberness—Sanity in the individual. A reply at once most respectful and most firm.

Sermons on Acts 26:25

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A.W. Tozer The Bridge That Was Too Short by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher uses two illustrations to convey a powerful message. The first illustration is about a man driving his family across a bridge that was not long enough,
J.C. Philpot Spiritual Sickness and Health by J.C. Philpot J.C. Philpot preaches on the importance of soul-prosperity, drawing from 3 John 2 where John wishes Gaius to prosper and be in health as his soul prospers. Philpot explains the dif
A.W. Tozer (Titus - Part 9): Qualifications for Church Leadership Iii by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the absolute nature of the word of God. He describes it as a divine revelation that tells us what we need to know about God, although it doe
Zac Poonen Titus, Philemon by Zac Poonen In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on Jesus and his word rather than getting caught up in trivial arguments and controversies. He shares a personal e
Eric J. Alexander Part 2, Wed (Toronto Spiritual Life Convention 1993) by Eric J. Alexander In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the proclamation of the gospel in evangelism. He refers to the example of Paul in Corinth, who faced difficulties but was e
J.C. Philpot The Call and Qualifications for the Ministry by J.C. Philpot J.C. Philpot delves into the importance of a divine call and necessary qualifications for the Gospel ministry. He emphasizes that a true call to the ministry involves a deep inward
J.H. Newman Sermons for Saints' Days and Holidays. No. 2, the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary by J.H. Newman J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of upholding the true Gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the foundational belief in the Incarnation of our Lord and Savior as essential f

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