Your name and reputation are priceless. Your name is who you are, and nobody likes a sour-puss cranky-crank. Who’s the guy who disrupts everything, the bully, the crazy uncle at Thanksgiving? That guy needs a talking to; are you that guy? What is your name and reputation? What do people know and say about you? Who are you? Who does God say you are?
The apostle John wrote a letter to the church, his third letter. He commended two men, Gaius and Demetrius. Gaius stood for the truth and walked in the truth. It was John’s great joy to hear about Gaius’ leadership and ministry and work for the Lord. He had great love for the church and welcomed and supported missionaries in their efforts. Demetrius was praised and thanked for his efforts as well. Everyone spoke well of him, including John. These are the guys you want to have in your church. These are the guys you want to be like as you go to church. Praise God for people like Gaius and Demetrius in the church, who do good and are from God! They have a great reputation.
Then you have other guys, like Diotrephes. He’s a train-wreck that already happened, a dumpster fire in progress. It wasn’t a pretty picture; Diotrephes has five strikes against him. He’s full of pride and does not acknowledge John’s authority. He’s talking wicked nonsense against John, slandering and spreading rumors. And Diotrephes is not content with that: he adds to the troubles and refuses to welcome the brothers who are visiting, and then he stops those who want to welcome them and he puts those good people out of the church. This is toxic. This is spiritual abuse. This is not helpful and not good for church. Do you know a guy like this? Are you this guy? Is this your reputation?
Who are you? What is your reputation? There are many good examples to follow in the Bible; be a John, or Gaius, or Demetrius. Does your name and life bring praise and glory to Jesus? Are you serving Him in love and truth? Your actions, words, and reputation ought to reflect His truth and love. Your name and reputation are all you have; don’t let that be “harm, mayhem, and destruction” like Diotrephes.