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The Old Testament is filled with prophecy showing that Jesus would suffer, be resurrected, and
proclaim salvation to the Jews and Gentiles (Psalm 22; Isaiah 42:6; 53:1-12; 60:1). Even though
Agrippa is presiding over the meeting, Festus interrupts Paul. Paul will use this occasion to
answer Festus and hit Agrippa with Old Testament scriptures.

PAUL CONTINUES HIS DEFENSE UNDER PRESSURE (24-32)

Festus interrupts Paul’s testimony accusing him of being mad. Paul refutes his accusation.
After hearing Paul, Agrippa recognizes that he is innocent and he is in jail because of a religious
dispute between Paul and the Jews. However, King Agrippa also does not release Paul and uses
Paul’s appeal to Caesar as the excuse.

Act 26:24 Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, "Paul, you are
beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!"

And as he thus spake for (defended) himself, Festus said (interrupted) with a loud voice, Paul,
thou art beside thyself (mainomai: maniac, mad); much learning doth make it thee mad (mania:
mania, crazy).

Festus calls Paul insane, raving mad. Festus has heard of Paul’s study even while in prison and
attacks his knowledge of the Word.

Act 26:25 But he said, "I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and
reason.

Even under great pressure, Paul keeps his composure. Paul is speaking the Old Testament
scriptures which Festus knows nothing of. Paul now makes him look bad before the Jews and
Agrippa.

Act 26:26 For the king, before whom I also speak freely, knows these things; for I am convinced
that none of these things escapes his attention, since this thing was not done in a corner.

For the king (Agrippa) knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely (Agrippa would
never interrupt me): for I am persuaded that one of these things are hidden from him; for this
thing (death, burial, resurrection) was not done in a corner.

Coming from the Herodian line, Agrippa was well versed in the Old Testament scriptures. If
Paul is angry, Agrippa is also angry. Agrippa has seen the rituals, heard the prophecies, and
knows of the injustices done to Jesus.

Act 26:27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe."
Paul has known for some time that Agrippa believed the Old Testament Scriptures. Agrippa
figures out quickly where Paul is heading. He knows Paul will tie Jesus into the Old Testament
verses and stops short of believing in Jesus as his own Savior.

Act 26:28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian."