Reputation
Summary
Reputation—one's standing in the estimation of others—is valued in Scripture as something to be guarded, though never at the expense of faithfulness to God.
☩Value of Good Reputation
Proverbs declares that 'a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.' Leaders in the church were to be of good reputation, having a good report from those outside the community of faith. Demetrius 'hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself.' A good reputation opens doors of influence and testimony.
☩Christ Made Himself of No Reputation
Paul writes that Christ Jesus 'made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant.' The Greek phrase literally means He 'emptied Himself,' voluntarily laying aside the visible glory of deity to become man. His example challenges believers to esteem others above themselves and serve without regard to status or recognition.
☩Reputation vs. Faithfulness
Jesus warned that seeking approval from men could prevent true faith. 'How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?' The apostles rejoiced when counted worthy to suffer dishonor for Christ's name. Faithfulness to God must take precedence over human approval.
Related Verses7 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Reputation," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VIII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Reputation," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Reputation," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).