Definition and Context:
Fame and influence are concepts that appear throughout the Bible, often intertwined with themes of leadership, reputation, and the impact of one's actions on others. Fame refers to the widespread recognition or renown of an individual, while influence denotes the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.

Biblical Examples:

1. King Solomon:
Solomon, son of David, is a prominent biblical figure known for his wisdom, wealth, and fame. His reputation spread far and wide, attracting dignitaries such as the Queen of Sheba. The Bible records, "King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth. All the kings of the earth sought an audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart" (2 Chronicles 9:22-23). Solomon's fame was directly linked to the divine wisdom granted to him, illustrating how God can elevate individuals for His purposes.

2. Jesus Christ:
Jesus' fame grew rapidly during His ministry due to His teachings, miracles, and acts of compassion. The Gospels note, "News about Him spread all over Syria, and people brought to Him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed—and He healed them" (Matthew 4:24). Jesus' influence was profound, as He not only healed physical ailments but also transformed lives spiritually.

3. The Apostles:
The early church leaders, particularly the apostles, gained fame and influence as they spread the Gospel. Acts 5:12-16 describes how "the apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people," leading to an increase in believers and the spread of their reputation. Their influence was rooted in their faithfulness to Christ's commission and the power of the Holy Spirit working through them.

Warnings and Challenges:

1. Pride and Misuse of Fame:
The Bible warns against the dangers of pride and the misuse of fame. King Nebuchadnezzar's account serves as a cautionary tale. His pride in his achievements led to his downfall until he acknowledged God's sovereignty (Daniel 4:28-37). This narrative underscores the importance of humility and recognizing God's ultimate authority.

2. False Prophets and Misleading Influence:
Scripture warns of false prophets who gain influence through deceit. Jesus cautioned, "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves" (Matthew 7:15). The influence of such individuals can lead people astray, highlighting the need for discernment and adherence to biblical truth.

Positive Aspects of Influence:

1. Godly Leadership:
Godly leaders use their influence to guide others toward righteousness. Joshua, for example, led the Israelites with faith and obedience, declaring, "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15). His influence encouraged the nation to remain faithful to God.

2. Spreading the Gospel:
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) exemplifies the positive use of influence, as Jesus commands His followers to "go and make disciples of all nations." The apostles and early Christians used their influence to spread the message of salvation, impacting countless lives and shaping the course of history.

Conclusion:
The Bible presents fame and influence as tools that can be used for both good and ill. When aligned with God's purposes, they can lead to the spread of His kingdom and the betterment of society. However, they also carry the risk of pride and corruption, necessitating a heart aligned with God's will and a life grounded in humility and service.