Festus Interrupts Paul’s Defense

24 At this stage of [Paul’s] defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You are insane, Paul! [Your] great learning is driving you to madness!”

25 But Paul answered “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. 26 For 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. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you [do].”

28 Then 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.”

30 Then the king and the governor rose, along with Bernice and those seated with them. 31 On their way out, they said to one another “This man has done nothing worthy of death or imprisonment.”

32 And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar.”