Fame and Famous: Public Reputation

The state of being widely known, recognized, and celebrated by many people, often bringing public attention, influence, and admiration from others.As believers, we should aspire to be great in the Kingdom of God because of our acts of faith, good works, godly influence and righteous lifestyle rather than trying to make it in this world's fickle society, which is but a fleeting illusion.

Understanding Fame

While fame can provide opportunities and a platform to impact others, it is temporary and often based on worldly standards that shift with cultural trends. Biblical wisdom consistently warns against seeking fame for selfish reasons, as it can lead to pride, distraction from spiritual priorities, and the temptation to receive glory that belongs to God alone.

The motive of the people who started building the tower of Babel was let's make a name for ourselves (Gen 11:4). Moses, who was extremely humble (and maintained that attribute throughout his life), was used by God in outstanding ways (Num 12:3; Deut 34:10-12).

Seek the approval of God, not the praise of man

News about the healing power of Jesus spread with His reputation and fame enraging the jealous religious leaders (Mt 4:24; Lk 5:15).

The Dangers of Earthly Fame

Individuals who achieve a certain level of fame are consistently subject to public attention. Unfortunately, the unrelenting attention and pressure often has a serious negative impact and instead of being role models for others to follow, because of pride and unholy lifestyles, they crash out, as their character has not grown along with their fame. They have accepted the praise and glory of man, rather than attributing it to the rightful recipient — God (Deut 8:18; Mt 5:16).

The Humbling of Proud Hearts

When an Old Testament king's heart became arrogant and hardened with pride in his own ability, he was stripped of his glory (Dan 4:30, 5:20). After this humbling experience he acknowledged and gave glory to God, the true source of all his achievements, and he was restored to his position (Dan 4:37, 5:21).

Centuries later another ruler delivered a speech which his hearers claimed as "This is the voice of a god, not of a man". Immediately because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down and he died (Act 12:21-23). We must learn this lesson well: God will not allow anyone to receive and retain the credit and adoration that is due to Him and rightfully His (Isa 42:8).

Jesus told His hearers, if you practice your outward expression of righteousness before other people with the motive to be seen by them (and accept their praise), you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven (Mt 6:1). He was using the Pharisees as an example of those "who do all their deeds to be seen by others" (Mt 23:5).

Do I live to be honoured by man or God?

He had previously highlighted three areas that people often use to impress others with their spirituality — giving and good works, praying, fasting or spiritual activities/disciplines (Mt 6:1,2,5,16).

Am I guilty of these or other actions that are done to appear 'spiritual' and be praised by man? Instead, we should live to receive a "Well done good and faithful servant" commendation from the Lord (Mt 25:21,23).

As Christians, we are encouraged to give, be involved in good works, prayer and various other godly disciplines for the benefit of our own spiritual life and His Kingdom. However, the driving or motivating force must not be for earthly recognition.

After the disciples had a powerful ministry experience, Jesus said focus on the real priority, "Do not rejoice that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven" (Lk 10:20). Is a successful ministry my god, or is it God? Do I crave temporary earthly recognition from man or lasting reward from God?

Jesus said, "I do not accept praise from men...yet you make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from God?" (Jn 5:41,44). Jesus further said, "I always do what pleases the Father" (Jn 8:29).

While it is right to recognise and thank those who have contributed their efforts, time and resources to an endeavour, this should not be exclusively directed to them. However, there should be an acknowledgement it is the Lord's enablement and they have just been obedient vessels doing what He wants as they have worked with Him (Gen 24:27; Neh 6:16; Mk 16:20; Lk 17:10).

Reflection and Application:

Examine your motives: Are your good works done for God's glory or human recognition?
Consider which type of praise matters more to you — earthly applause or heavenly commendation.
Reflect on whether you're building your own name or God's Kingdom.
Ask yourself: Is success in ministry my god, or is it God Himself?