What other biblical figures were known for their good reputations among believers? Setting the Scene: Timothy’s Reputation in Acts 16:2 “The brothers in Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him.” (Acts 16:2) Timothy’s life was already speaking before he ever opened his mouth to preach. His faith, conduct, and consistency created a testimony other believers could gladly endorse. Why a Good Reputation Matters • Proverbs 22:1—“A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.” • 1 Timothy 3:7—Leaders “must have a good reputation with outsiders.” • Matthew 5:16—Our light should “shine before men” so they glorify the Father. Reputation isn’t about self-promotion; it’s about reflecting Christ so clearly that others can’t help but notice. Other Men and Women Scripture Commends • Stephen – Acts 6:3, 5 “Select from among yourselves seven men who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom… They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” • Barnabas – Acts 11:24 “Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.” • Demetrius – 3 John 12 “Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself.” • Ananias (of Damascus) – Acts 22:12 “A devout man by the standard of the Law, well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there.” • Cornelius – Acts 10:22 “Cornelius the centurion is a righteous and God-fearing man, well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation.” • Tabitha (Dorcas) – Acts 9:36 “She was always doing good works and acts of charity.” • Joseph – Genesis 41:38-39 Pharaoh said, “Can we find anyone like this man, in whom is the Spirit of God? … There is no one so discerning and wise as you.” • Daniel – Daniel 6:3 “Daniel distinguished himself… because an extraordinary spirit was in him.” • Ruth – Ruth 3:11 “All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character.” • Boaz – Ruth 2:1 “A man of standing whose name was Boaz.” (His integrity is confirmed throughout the chapter.) Common Threads in Their Testimonies • Spirit-filled character—each person’s reputation traced back to God at work within. • Consistent service—whether distributing food (Stephen), giving generously (Tabitha), or showing hospitality (Cornelius). • Visible integrity—outsiders as well as believers recognized their authenticity. • Humble posture—they weren’t chasing fame; they were simply faithful. Living It Out Today • Walk in the Spirit—yield daily; reputation grows from the inside out. • Serve where you are—small acts of faithfulness often speak the loudest. • Guard consistency—let speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity align (1 Timothy 4:12). • Keep Christ central—He is the source and goal of every “good testimony.” |
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