Madness?

As the Roman procurator of Judea, Festus listened as Paul defended himself. Festus had been joined by King Agrippa and his wife, Bernice, who wanted to hear Paul for themselves. They listened to his story, as he described how Jesus appeared to him and his life was changed.

Paul might have thought he was being reasonable, but Festus was not moved. Speaking in a “loud voice,” he declared his conviction that Paul was “beside himself.” That he was “mad.”

The Greek word here is mania (the only time this word is used in the Bible). It is a word that means madness or frenzy. This word also is common in our culture. The Encarta World English Dictionary defines “mania” as “an excessive and intense interest in or enthusiasm for something.” People with mania are “maniacs.”

Some people in the world look at Christians and think that we are mad. Yet the fact is that we should have an excessive and intense enthusiasm for the Gospel, and a passion for God’s Word. People should recognize that we are different, that Jesus really has changed our lives, that we are “new creatures” in Christ. That we are on fire for Jesus.

Today, ask yourself what people around you think. Are you living in such a way that you just conform to the world? Are you afraid to make a bold stance for Jesus or worried what other people might say about you? Have you committed all of your time, talent, and treasure to God?

Ask Him to help you put aside the things of this world and seek first His Kingdom. To be more passionate about your faith. To be more concerned about serving Him than your reputation. Let Him transform you into a new creature in Christ.