Back to Enoch and Abraham, while the two did not gain fame for their work, deed, or skill, they did have fame nevertheless as being among the greatest heroes of the faith. Enoch was known for being one of the only ones in the genealogical list to being one of God’s person other than Abel, and Abram is blessed by all.
Seeking Fame?
While outside the church you will face unpopularity, within the church it may be different. Who wouldn’t want to be known as a the luminaries of the church, God’s man or woman, that said, not everyone of faith would even make it to fame in church, let alone, within Christianity. The questions you must ask yourself is:
- Would you like to be known for your heroics/occupation/status, or your faith?
- If you choose the latter then are you content with anonymity?
- But if you’re not OK with anonymity but desired spiritual fame then is it for the glory of God for your own?
If you want fame then heed this caution of mine; you may not be good for it.
God called men to be in the public eye not because they’ve earned it, but because they are to be leaders. And to be a leader is to live in such a way that no one can fault them. They become targets, and even if they’ve done no wrong will others slander; to reduce one to ignominy because they hate the truth. Paul had to defend himself because there were those who’ve claimed he was a false apostle (1 Corinthians 9:1-2), a con-artist (2 Corinthians 11:7-9), and more. Paul had to live in such a way that he is blameless (which might have included taking jobs rather than living as a full-time preacher) (Acts 18:1-4).
Are you ready for the same treatment, and are you ready to make the same sacrifices?
Now, it not easy. Some of us are of little note in church, ignored like a janitor in school while others have that same treatment within our own families; not many of us go to school reunions for that reason. But if our focus is only for God’s glory, then we’ve reached the level of spiritual maturity in Christ (but by no means the only sign):
30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
– John 3:30
Agur's Observations 