Bad Company

 Luke 15:2
And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
It is important to guard our influence. The religious people in Jesus day thought this was necessary in order to maintain their reputation. They valued their reputation over seeking the lost. Paul admonishes believers not to be a stumbling block to others by the things they do and say. But on the other hand, he says “​​I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” It is prudent that we be careful with the kind of people we hang around with and guard against being influenced by evil. Guilty by association is often attributed to those who hang around bad company, but Jesus sees people who are lost and need to be found. He casted away any inhibition of being identified with sinners and meets people where they are to share His love and forgiveness. Christian who are the light of the world, a world that is darkened by sin are to live in the world, but are not to be a part of it. Let the light of Christ shine to those who are lost and so they can find a way out of darkness.

Good Reputation

Phil 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

A good reputation is characterized by the good things people think of us. We mean what we say, and we say what we mean. Honest in business, and the willingness to treat others fairly.  A bad reputation is determine by the negative opinion that others have of us, normally based on the deeds and actions we do. The habits we form in life are seen by others, which form an opinion that can leave a good or bad reputation of our character. Making yourself of no reputation is to do what is right regardless what others may think of you. Jesus sat and ate with the Publicans, had no regard to his reputation. He was a friend to sinners, making himself of no reputation to the religious leaders of that day. It is important that we guard our reputation, but what others think of us should not hinder us from doing what is right. People may not always understand, but God who knows the heart, is pleased. Don’t worry what man thinks of you, but be concern what God thinks of you. We should always seek a good reputation in the sight of God.

A Good Reputation

Phil 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

We value a good reputation. We want people to think well of us. A good name is well guarded from being destroyed. There is good reason to maintain a good reputation among others. Our reputation influences our witness for Christ. It is the perception that others have of us. But our reputation is not who we are. What people think of us does not constitute our character. Following the example of Christ in the way He lived may require us to lay down our reputation and lay down our pride and be what He wants us to be. Jesus was not concern about being great in this world. He came to earth for a purpose, He came to give His life for you and for me, He came to show us how to live a life that is free from the opinions of men. How to walk this life’s journey, living a life of servanthood and humility. As the worldly mind, strives to climb the heights of power and popularity, the mind of Christ seeks not to be seen, but to serve.