"Timothy was well spoken of by the brothers and sisters who were in Lystra and Iconium". (Acts 16:2,AMP)
Young Timothy joined the second missionary journey of Paul with Silas because folks saw something favorable in his character. It's a good thing to be commended by fellow believers.
"First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because the whole world is hearing about your faith". (Romans 1:8, GNT)
The Apostle Paul longed to go to Rome to fellowship with world known believers there. It's a good thing to be famous for your faith. I'm thinking Billy Graham, Anne Graham Lotz, Franklin Graham, David Jeremiah. Their Spiritual reputations precede them all over the world.
"For the report of your obedience has reached everyone, so that I rejoice over you." (Romans 16:19, AMP).
It's a good thing that everyone notices your honesty and loyalty, especially if one of those is a VIP in Christian circles.
"Men of God in days of old were famous for their faith." (Hebrews 11:2,TLB).
The Ancients that I read of in the Old Testament, such as Abraham, Moses, Isaiah, and Jeremiah proclaimed their faith courageously. Who can you name that is famous for their faith?
"By an act of faith, Abel brought a better sacrifice to God than Cain." (Hebrews 11:4, MSG).
Faith produces a pleasing sacrifice to God. He speaks well of it. What is my faith producing for God?
Spiritual reputation:
I'm seeing a sequence in these readings. Timothy approved by fellow believers
Roman Christians's faith famous worldwide.
What were they famous for? Faith. Faith resulted in doing the will of God. People spread the word about their faith; they had a spiritual reputation for faith in the living God.
The Ancients were commended for their faith and we're still learning from it. Finally, we're back at the beginning. Disobedient Adam bore Abel, who offered God an acceptable sacrifice as result of his faith.
So, what is spiritual reputation and why is it important? Since the beginning of recorded time, people are recognized by their reputation or their character.
Our oldest son David, since birth developed a strong willed personality, He is goal oriented and determined.
Our youngest, Todd, born with a free spirit to climb and explore his way through life.
Praise God, they both, after much deliberation, made a personal commitment to Christ early in life.
First, your faith is recognized locally, then it spreads and we have no idea how far it goes or who it touches or how your legacy plays out. The sacrifices made personally are seen by God.
Personally, I pray my spiritual reputation has overcome my carnal reputation and the legacy I leave will be as John the Baptist's: He did no miracles; he just pointed people to Jesus.
Spiritual Reputation: How are you doing with that?
Their spiritual reputation
