PM Scripture Reading: Proverbs 22.1-6

This Evening’s Sermon: Brent T. Willey

A Good Name

Introduction:

1. Solomon emphasized the importance of reputation by describing the value of a “good name” (Prov. 22.1 & Eccl. 7.1).

2. The Hebrew word for “name” is shem, and is used nearly 1,000 times in the Old Testament.

   1. Noah’s eldest son. (Gen. 5.32; Luke 3.36) [Lit., “renown”]

   2. Linked to shamayim, which literally means “to be lofty,” but is usually translated as “heaven(s)” (Gen. 1.1).

3. A “good name” is more desirable than material riches!

I. OUR SPIRITUAL IDENTITY…

1. “Believers” [pistos], object. means trustworthy; subj. means trustful. (Acts 5.14; 2 Cor. 6.151 Tim. 4.12)

2. “Disciples” [mathetes], lit. means a learner or student. (Luke 6.40; John 8.31; Acts 11.26)

3. “Saints” [hagios], means holy or sacred; physically pure or morally blameless; religiously consecrated or devoted to sacred things. (Psa. 106.16–LXX; Rom. 1.7; Phil. 4.21-22)

4. “Christians” [Christianos], an actual appellative because we wear Christ’s name. It carries the idea of following Christ. (Acts 11.26; 26.28; 1 Pet. 4.16)

II. HONOR THE GOOD NAME!

1. Alexander: “Change your conduct or change your name!”

2. Do not blaspheme God’s name! (Rom. 2.24)

3. A contradiction in names…Sardis! (Rev. 3.1-5)

4.   Names written in heaven! (Luke 10.17-20; Rev. 21.23-27)

Conclusion: What kind of name do you have?