Definition: Community favor refers to the positive regard, goodwill, and approval that individuals or groups receive from their surrounding community. In a biblical context, it often implies a harmonious relationship between believers and the broader society, characterized by mutual respect and support.

Biblical Examples:

1. Jesus and His Early Ministry: Jesus, during His early years, is described as growing in favor with both God and man. Luke 2:52 states, "And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." This verse highlights the balanced development of Jesus, not only spiritually but also socially, indicating that He was well-regarded by those around Him.

2. The Early Church: The early Christian community in Jerusalem enjoyed favor with the people. Acts 2:47 notes, "praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." This passage illustrates how the believers' conduct and communal life attracted positive attention and goodwill from the broader society, contributing to the growth of the church.

3. Joseph in Egypt: Joseph, despite being a foreigner and initially a slave, found favor in the eyes of those around him due to his integrity and God's blessing. Genesis 39:4 says, "Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household and entrusted him with everything he owned." Joseph's favor with Potiphar and later with Pharaoh was instrumental in God's plan for the preservation of Israel.

Principles for Gaining Community Favor:

1. Righteous Living: Proverbs 3:3-4 advises, "Let loving devotion and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man." A life marked by love and faithfulness naturally attracts favor.

2. Wisdom and Understanding: Proverbs 13:15 states, "Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the faithless is difficult." Wisdom and discernment in interactions with others can lead to favorable relationships.

3. Service and Humility: Jesus taught that serving others is a path to greatness and favor. In Mark 10:43-44 , He said, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all." Humble service often results in respect and favor from others.

Challenges and Considerations:

1. Persecution and Misunderstanding: While community favor is desirable, Scripture also acknowledges that believers may face persecution and misunderstanding. Jesus warned His followers in John 15:18-19 , "If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world."

2. Balancing Truth and Favor: Maintaining community favor should not come at the expense of compromising biblical truth. Acts 5:29 records Peter and the apostles saying, "We must obey God rather than men," highlighting the priority of divine approval over human favor.

Conclusion: Community favor, while beneficial for the spread of the Gospel and harmonious living, must be pursued with discernment, ensuring that it aligns with a life of righteousness, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to God's truth.