Chapter Seven: The Glorious Poverty of a Bad Reputation
The Desecration of Jesus Christ
There was a day when one’s reputation was all that they had. A deal between two people could be sealed with just a handshake.
Solomon wrote in Proverbs 22:1 that, “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.”
We all desire a good reputation, what others think about us is important. Sometimes we go to extremes to protect our names. Jesus, however, was not concern about his reputation in the same way we are. Throughout his ministry he was bad-mouthed, accused, and maligned by his enemies and sometimes even by his family. Yet, he did not spend precious time defended himself. He was aware of who he was and his purpose.
He was more concerned with defending the honor of his Father’s name and glory. In essence when they attacked Jesus they attacked the Father. Even at his trial “he opened not his mouth” not even to give a defense to the charges against him.
Piper writes that, “In the end, the only ‘good name’ that mattes is not how men feel about us, but how God feels about us.” I believe those are good words. Never let the thoughts of others dictate how we serve our Master. We seek not to please man, but God.
If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.
1 Peter 4:14-16 (ESV)
P.S. Please feel free to share your comments and questions.
Rob
Wonderful reminder to fight against our tendencies to want to look good in peoples’ eyes more than in God’s. Thank you for the post.
“Seeing & Savoring Jesus Christ” is a fantastic set of articles in book form. Please take one FREE from our church if you haven’t already.