Scripture teaches that “a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches” (Prov. 22:1). Pastor Terry shows why a good name is spiritual treasure, how it functions as our testimony, and how the Name above every name—the Lord Jesus—saves and transforms. We all carry multiple “names”: our personal/family name, our church’s name, and—most importantly—the name Christian. Guard your testimony with daily, principled choices that point people to Christ.
A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. —Proverbs 22:1
Introduction
We make many choices every day—hitting the snooze button, coming to church, reading our Bibles. Proverbs 22:1 reminds us of a far more important choice: choose a good name. Many spend life chasing wages and wealth, but Scripture says a good name is better than all of that, and it brings “loving favour.”
You can build a good testimony over a lifetime—and ruin it in a few moments with one decision.
Think of names that instantly paint a picture: Judas Iscariot (betrayal); John the beloved (closeness to Jesus); David (a man after God’s heart). In the same way, when your name is spoken, something comes to mind. Your reputation precedes you.
1) The Treasure of a Good Name
Ecclesiastes 7:1 says, “A good name is better than precious ointment.” Like soothing ointment, a godly reputation blesses those around you. The “day of death” is better than “the day of birth” because a life’s work is complete—accomplishments and faithfulness are known, not just imagined.
2) The Names We Bear
- Spiritual name: We are Christians, believers, brethren. Our walk with God in secret will show openly (Matt. 6; Luke 2:52).
- Family name: Don’t bring reproach to it; live so your family gladly bears it after you.
- Church name: Your workplace should associate your church with honesty, effort, and excellence (Rom. 14:16).
- Steward: God has entrusted you with your family, time, and gifts—be found faithful (1 Cor. 4:2).
- A debtor of love: Owe no man any thing, but to love one another (Rom. 13:8). Everywhere you go, you “owe” people the love and gospel that changed you.
3) The Testimony of a Good Name
Honesty isn’t merely the “best” policy—it’s the only policy for a Christian. Are you on time? Trustworthy? Do you give 100%? The Bible’s biographies warn us: Solomon had wisdom and glory, yet one decision—loving many strange women—turned his heart (1 Kings 11). Samson was strong but rebellious and careless. Daniel stood firm in prayer. Ruth was faithful; Mary was trusted by God. Paul served and discipled. Your name will be linked to choices you repeatedly make—and sometimes to the one choice you make in a critical moment.
You can build a good testimony for years and ruin it in minutes. So Scripture calls us to “abstain from all appearance of evil” (1 Thess. 5:22) and to live the new life we have in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17).
4) Daily Choices Shape Your Name
A season of WWJD bracelets doesn’t make us holy; obeying the Word does. Decide ahead of time to act by principle, not by mood. Let people say, “I saw Jesus in you.”
5) The Triumph of God’s Name
“Neither is there salvation in any other… for there is none other name… whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Salvation is personal and certain: “If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart… thou shalt be saved… For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Rom. 10:9–13)
Conclusion
How is your name? Personally, spiritually, and as part of this church—what do people think when they hear it? Most of all, does God know your name (John 10:27)? Choose a good name; walk worthy of Christ; draw people to the Saviour.
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