That's Crazy!

““So, having obtained help from God, I stand to this day testifying both to small and great, stating nothing but what the Prophets and Moses said was going to take place; that the Christ was to suffer, and that by reason of His resurrection from the dead He would be the first to proclaim light both to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.” While Paul was saying this in his defense, Festus said in a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind! Your great learning is driving you mad.” But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth”” (Acts 26:22–25).

The apostle Paul has been given an opportunity to tell his story before King Agrippa. He talks of his background as a Pharisee, including his strong opposition to the followers of Jesus. He then relates his incredible encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. When he gets to the point of mentioning the resurrection of Christ, the Roman governor Festus has heard enough. In essence, he says, “Paul, you're crazy!” The phrase “out of your mind” is from a Greek word that is the root of our English words “mania” or “maniac.” When critics resort to questioning our sanity, it shouldn’t surprise us. They did the same thing to the Lord. His own family thought He had “lost His senses” (Mark 3:21). Fellow Jews in John 8 claimed He had a demon (John 8:48,52). A couple of chapters later in John 10, some added insanity to the list (John 10:19).

To many in the time of Jesus and Paul, the talk of crucified and resurrected Messiah were beyond sane belief. It remains true today. “To a worldly, materialistic mind, it seems insane to risk so much to gain what seems to be so little. But as you follow Christ, you soon discover that one’s most prized possessions cannot compare to even the smallest eternal reward” (Life Application Study Bible).

God loves you!

Mike