KJV and NKJV Scripture
– But made himself of no reputation, and took upon himself the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. And, in fashion as a man, he (Jesus) humbled himself and became obedient unto death – even the death of the Cross. – Philippians 2:7-8
– Serving our own interest to the neglect of Jesus is a very great sin. It is common among Christians and ministers. Many prefer their own credit, ease, and safety – before truth, holiness, and duty. The things of their own pleasure and reputation before the things of Christ and giving honor to God. – Matthew Henry
After Jesus cleansed a certain leper, the leper was instructed to say nothing about it to any man – but only to show himself to a priest in a city where they both resided. The leper did not listen. Instead, he began to publish the event much, and blazed abroad about the miracle … to the point where Christ could not enter into this city openly (Mark 1:40-45). There would just be too much attention centered on Jesus.
During the Feast of the Tabernacles, some of Christ’s brethren questioned his obvious desire to shun the public spotlight and remain unspotted as much as possible (James 1:27). They said, “Go into Judea, so your disciples may also see the works you do. For there is no man who does anything in secret, and he himself seeks to be known openly. If you do these things, show yourself to the world (John 7:3-4).”
These words were all born out of unbelief (John 7:5). Jesus was not acting or talking like a king of earthly reputation would – much less an eternal king. Christ did not show any cravings for notoriety, nor showed any desire for some sort of status in society. Jesus simply went about his Father’s business quietly (Luke 2:49), humbly obeying Him all the way to the Cross. Dying there so we would learn to live the same way.
All reputations, good, bad, or in between are of this world. They show God continued conformance to it, and not being transformed by truth (Romans 12:1-2). Positive reputations can bring a certain amount of prestige and praise, while negative ones can bring a lot of problems and pain. People who have the latter can squander precious time attempting to repair and restore broken images by external methods or means.
Whatever reputations do or don’t do, they are all in direct opposition to God’s Word. No matter how they are created or destroyed, they are not in alignment or agreement with His will. Climbing up the corporate ladder to fame and making a name, or the Christian rungs to do the same, is not why God put us here on earth. It is to stay humbly obedient to His way until death, so we might be saved (e.g. Hebrews 9:15).
Sadly, and with eternal consequences if not corrected, the modern church has been creating a idolatrous culture of celebrity Christian singers, writers, and speakers for decades. Some of these people are of great repute and have attained cult-like followings. But, they are grievous wolves drawing disciples away for themselves. Speaking perverse things for profit, and to preserve their reputation (Acts 20:29-30).
This all may seem new, but it’s not (Ecclesiastes 1:9-10). Moses dealt with 250 princes in his assembly who rose up against him and Aaron. Men of renown, with reputations, and all famous in the congregation (Numbers 16:2). Paul spoke of those who seemed to be somebody, but it made no difference to him. They didn’t add anything to his teachings as God respects no man’s person (Romans 2:11, Galatians 2:6).
God has several thoughts regarding all of this. Read what the prophet Daniel writes about it: “And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing. And, He does according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth. None can stay His hand and say to Him, ‘What are You doing (Daniel 4:35)?'” Still, there is someone who wants us to think differently when it comes to reputations.
The deceiver of this world (Revelation 12:9) and its prince (John 14:30), Satan, does a very good job in convincing even the most steadfast Christians they must maintain a certain image in life to present to others; a religious reputation to uphold. This is a device the devil uses to trick believers into thinking they’re standing firm in faith. But, it’s only upon their reputation, and not the foundation of Jesus – if at all.
This is how Christians fall from repentance and grace (Hebrews 6:4-6, Hebrews 12:15) – and can end up finding no space in heaven. It is how they give place to Satan and fall into his same condemnation, as good reputations tend to puff people up in pride (Ephesians 4:27, 1 Timothy 3:6). Having one pushes God to the sidelines, unless He seems to be helping them keep their high esteem and good standing before others.
Instead of having the same before Him. What keeps us in our Father’s esteem, good standing, and favor, is repenting of things like desires to have a reputation – along with the haughty airs having one can bring. Yes, it is true we are created in His image, but this does not mean we are born with His attributes. To obtain them, we’re commanded to produce spiritual fruits not usually esteemed among men (Luke 16:15).
The humble example of Christ is set before us in the Bible. Learning Jesus is not a recommendation from God to contemplate (Ephesians 4:20-32). It is not something to mull over, but a commandment to obey. Desires for the fleeting praise and prestige worldly admiration can bring, along with the advantage of reputations, are dangerous ways to defy God, and to face consequences for doing so (2 Thessalonians 1:8).
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