Our Name and Reputation

These are valuable assets developed through years of effort and discipline. We must exercise utmost caution as we guard them diligently.

• A Good Name – “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1). “A good name is better than precious ointment” (Ecclesiastes 7:1).
• A Reputation – “Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savor: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honor” (Ecclesiastes 10:1).

We must always remember that, day by day, brick by brick, and little by little, we are building a name and a reputation in the following areas.

1. The Church – Among our peers in the church, whether it be ministry or laity, we are building ourselves a name.
2. The Word – We are also known outside the church. Does our reputation in the world match our professed Christianity?

Everyone is susceptible to corruption. Both inside and outside influences can corrupt good manners. We must take steps to preserve our position with God and humanity. Not only is it important to build a good name, it is also essential to maintain that good name.