the great and final issue of redemption is to be the reputation of God. That’s the goal of all spiritual achievements. That’s the glorious climax of all things. God will have a universal and glorious and everlasting reputation!
Here in Ezekiel, the term “name” speaks of God’s reputation. We often say, “That man has a great name.” What we really mean is that his character results in a far-reaching reputation. O we might hear it said that someone’s name has been dragged through the mud---tarnished, or soiled.
Webster says that a reputation is “an estimation, favorably or unfavorably, in which a person or thing is held.” Think of some names with me. What do they conjure up in your mind?
- Hitler: evil
- Einstein: genius
- Moses: deliverer
- Michaelangelo: art
- Rockefeller: money
- Mother Teresa: compassion
- Edison: inventions
Where does God derive His reputation from? - His creation
- His mighty acts on behalf of mankind