“By Reputation”
The KJV of the New Testament finds the word “reputation” four times: Acts 5:34; Galatians 2:2; Philippians 2:7 and 2:29. Using Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance as a reference to definition, Strong suggests four variant meanings for this word translated “reputation:” 1. To be of a considered honorable character, 2. Of valued, high(er) esteem, 3. To empty oneself of merit (see Phil. 2:7), and 4. To be considered of the highest esteem (ex., Phil. 2:29). By careful examination of the text, the student easily finds the correct definition of the word in context.
Examine Philippians 2: 25-30 and replace the identity of Epaphroditus with your name! Does the description fit? Here is what Paul thought of this good man’s reputation:
- “My brother, my companion in labor, my fellow soldier, your messenger, and my provider” (vs. 25)
- “He loves you and was humbled by your attention to his illness.” (vs. 26)
- “His illness made me sorrowful as well.” (vs. 27)
- “I’ve sent him to you with care so you can rejoice with me, knowing that he nearly died serving the Lord without regard for his physical welfare, to supply what you could not supply for this work.” (vs. 28 – 30)
A Christian’s REPUTATION is vital to the effectiveness of the gospel of Christ. Epaphroditus hazarded his life to not only help Paul, but also the brethren at Philippi. But notice in this passage, it was PHILIPPI who declared his reputation – not he, himself!
From the same chapter, notice Christ Jesus (verses 5 – 8). Jesus refused to exalt Himself, but as verse seven says, “But made Himself of no reputation.” That is, Jesus “emptied Himself of merit,” i.e., “being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Others exalted Him! God the Father highly exalted Him (vs. 9), “giving Him a name that is above every name.” Jesus did not build a reputation for His own prestige: He lived so God the Father would grant Him that reputation. If you study the chapter, you will see Epaphroditus followed that example: he let others exalt him (declare his reputation). The proverb writer expresses this manner as wise (Proverbs 27:2).
Yes, each of us builds our individual reputation. Our words and deeds fashion the character by which others determine our reputation (see the definitions listed above). Our reputation will be either positive or negative, determined by our words and deeds. Be aware, not all men shall speak well of us (Luke 6:26) because our character does not pacify their “standards” of respectability. However, as a Christian, our words and deeds must please GOD first (Matthew 6:33; Colossians 1:18). If God is pleased, then it does not matter what man does or thinks (Hebrews 13:5 – 6).
Be careful also to avoid comparing yourselves to others who you believe have a “higher reputation” than you have. You are you, not them! Life’s opportunities are different for you than for others. God expects each one of His children to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). While we are to follow the steps of Jesus (1 Peter 2:21), we cannot be Jesus. Just as Epaphroditus, we can follow the example, but we are ourselves, not another!
Therefore, guard your words and deeds carefully so that the reputation others will speak of you is one of the highest esteem, which comes by faithfully following Christ Jesus!