Chapter 1: Building a Good Reputation

1 Tim 3:7 - And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

We should have a good reputation with those outside the church. One should not be a hypocrite and be holy only on Sundays, or in the presence of family, friends or among Christians. We should be of good repute to our neighbours and even to people we do not know. Clearly, our actions, behaviour and speech need to be of no reproach (disapproved), such that we can be a testimony drawing people to Christ.

Former sins might cause us to become a snare and relive our bad reputation, hence we really have to be directed by Christ in our lives. While pride/ false humilty is a sin many often overlook, it is destructive.
Pro 16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
Jam 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore the scripture saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble.

Spiritual Growth

1. Reflect upon how people (Inside and Outside Church) really think of us.
2. Past: Were there any false views of us? Were our attitudes or actions misjudged? Why had this happened? What can we do to correct such views without appearing defensive?
3. Present: Are we aware of any attitudes or actions that are hurting our reputations now? What corrective steps can we take?
4. Future: What can we do to enhance our reputation as a Christian man?
   

The Measure of a Man
Twenty Attributes of a Godly Man
by Gene A. Getz

In this impure world today, we are faced with all kinds of temptations and trials. As a Christian, we cannot compromise on our values in order the win acceptance from the world. We are to be holy - to be separated from the world, even if it means having to suffer for Christ's sake. For Christ died on the cross, shed His precious blood to redeem us from all our sins. How Thankful we ought to be, for Salvation is more precious than gold and much better than silver.

Reading "The Measure of a Man" has been a blessing for me. I am humbled to see how imperfect and incomplete I am. There are many areas in my life I need to work on and God has to be in the picture. I hope that if you are a Christian reading this blog, you will surrender yourself to God as well. Let Him mould you into a masterpiece and experience the joy of a Christ-filled life. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

Taking excerpts from Gene's book, I hope this will benefit you in becoming a matured Christian man.

How do we recognise a man of God? What does he look like?

Paul's Maturity Profile - 1 Tim3:1-7; Titus 1:5-10

1. Overall spiritual maturity (a well-rounded man)
2. Above reproach (a man of good repute)
3. The husband of one wife (morally pure)
4. Temperate (balanced in words and actions)
5. Prudent (wise and humble)
6. Respectable (good role model)
7. Hospitable (unselfish and generous)
8. Able to teach (communicates sensitively in a non-threatening and non-defensive manner)
9. Not addicted to wine (not addicted to substances)
10. Not self-willed (not self-centered and controlling)
11. Not quick-tempered (void of anger that becomes sinful)
12. Not pugnacious (not abusive)
13. Gentle (sensitive, loving and kind)
14. Peaceable (non-argumentative and non-divisive)
15. Free from the love of money (non-materialistic)
16. Manages his own household well (a good husband and father)
17. Loving what is good (pursues godly activities)
18. Just (wise, discerning, non-prejudiced and fair)
19. Devout (holy, devoted to God)
20. Self-controlled (disciplined)
    

These qualities are goals for every Christian man. It is going to be an exciting challenge going forth. There are times however when Satan would tempt you with thoughts of impossibility, of how you failed again and again. But remember, Submit yourself to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near you. (Jas 4:7-8)
It would be good to find an accountability partner, for both of you to grow in this journey. May God bless your walk as I pour through each attribute in the coming days ahead.