24 Now as he [Paul] thus made his defence, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!”
25 But he said, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truthand reason.
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.
27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.”
28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.”
[Acts 26:24-28]
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Paul was originally brought to the court of Felix. However, Felix couldn’t adjudicate on the matter before going on retirement.
So when Festus took over as the new Judge, he attempted to rule on the matter by asking Paul to make his submissions before him. Unfortunately, Festus wasn’t able to make a determination. It seemed the arguments of Paul were too sophisticated for Festus. Later, Festus reconstituted the Panel comprising himself and King Agrippa, a more experienced judge.
At the hearing, Paul as usual was at his best. He was so eloquent and made his submissions forcefully. What was the reaction of Festus? He screamed by saying too much learning was making Paul mad. What a fascinating statement that is to my ears! He wasn’t allegedly getting mad as a result of cocaine, tramadol, heroin or any other hard drugs. Neither was he accused of making lousy submissions. He was talking at a level higher than the knowledge of the judge. Isn’t that awesome! When King Agrippa was pushed to the wall, he admitted Paul nearly convinced him to toe Paul’s line. Mad men don’t persuade sane people, you know.
Friends, Paul wasn’t just a dedicated Christian and an Apostle. He was also academically superb. That should be the hallmark of the believer even in this 21st Century. We should be able to demonstrate superior knowledge on the economy, governance, finance, the law etc. That’s the only way we can take our place in this country and the world at large.
The Holy Spirit lives in the inside of us and broods over our minds. We must produce enduring results by all means.
May the Lord help us with overflowing supply of grace, so we produce results that are abide forever in the Name of Jesus. Amen.