Topical Encyclopedia The term "disreputable" refers to someone or something lacking respectability in character or behavior, often associated with dishonor or disgrace. In the context of the Bible, individuals or actions deemed disreputable are often contrasted with the virtues of righteousness and integrity that are upheld by God's commandments.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, disreputable behavior is frequently highlighted in narratives and laws that underscore the importance of living a life pleasing to God. For instance, the account of Rahab, the prostitute in Jericho, illustrates how someone with a disreputable profession can still play a pivotal role in God's plan. Despite her occupation, Rahab's faith and actions in hiding the Israelite spies led to her being spared during the conquest of Jericho (Joshua 2:1-21). Her inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) further emphasizes the transformative power of faith and redemption. The Proverbs often contrast the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, highlighting behaviors that lead to a disreputable life. Proverbs 6:12-15 describes a "worthless person, a wicked man" who "walks with a perverse mouth," warning that such a person will face sudden calamity. This passage underscores the biblical view that disreputable behavior ultimately leads to destruction. New Testament Context In the New Testament, Jesus frequently interacted with those considered disreputable by society, such as tax collectors and sinners. His association with these individuals was often criticized by the religious leaders of the time. In Matthew 9:10-13 , Jesus dines with tax collectors and sinners, prompting the Pharisees to question His disciples. Jesus responds, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick... For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." This interaction highlights the redemptive mission of Christ and His willingness to reach out to those marginalized by society. The Apostle Paul also addresses disreputable behavior in his epistles, urging believers to live lives that reflect their faith. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 , Paul warns that "the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God," listing behaviors such as sexual immorality, idolatry, and theft as disreputable actions that separate individuals from God's kingdom. However, he also emphasizes the transformative power of Christ, stating in verse 11, "And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." Cultural and Social Implications The Bible's treatment of disreputable individuals and actions often reflects the cultural and social norms of the time. However, it also transcends these norms by offering a message of hope and redemption. The biblical narrative consistently points to the possibility of transformation through faith and repentance, regardless of one's past or societal status. In the early Christian community, believers were encouraged to live above reproach, setting an example for others. In 1 Timothy 3:7 , Paul advises that a church leader "must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the snare of the devil." This instruction underscores the importance of maintaining a life that reflects the values of the Christian faith, avoiding disreputable conduct that could harm the witness of the church. Conclusion The concept of being disreputable in the Bible serves as a reminder of the call to live a life of integrity and righteousness. While the Bible acknowledges the reality of disreputable behavior, it also offers a path to redemption and transformation through faith in Jesus Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Not in esteem; dishonorable; disgraceful; tending to bring into disesteem; as, it is disreputable to associate familiarly with the mean, the lewd, and the profane.Library But Let us See what those Statements of his are which Follow Next ... Lateranus, as You Say, is the God and Genius of Hearths... Observe Now with Regard to the Following Statement of Celsus... State of Affairs in 311 Rom. xiii. 11 The Two Debtors. The Parable of the Lost Sheep Are we Not, in Like Manner, Enjoined to Put Away from us all ... The Psychology of Contemplation With whom we are to Associate. Thesaurus Disreputable (1 Occurrence)... (a.) Not in esteem; dishonorable; disgraceful; tending to bring into disesteem; as, it is disreputable to associate familiarly with ...Disreputable (1 Occurrence). ... /d/disreputable.htm - 6k Leg (24 Occurrences) Exorcist (1 Occurrence) Disrepute (3 Occurrences) Disregards (3 Occurrences) Discreditable (1 Occurrence) Calumniate (1 Occurrence) Adullam (10 Occurrences) Taxing (3 Occurrences) Tax (43 Occurrences) Resources What is the ragamuffin gospel? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christian women wear makeup or jewelry? | GotQuestions.org What is a vagabond in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Disreputable: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Disreputable (1 Occurrence)Job 30:8 Subtopics Related Terms |