Topical Encyclopedia
Introduction: The concept of God's fame is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His glory, power, and the reverence He commands among His people and the nations. God's fame is not merely about His renown but is intrinsically linked to His divine attributes, acts of salvation, and the fulfillment of His promises.
Old Testament References: In the Old Testament, God's fame is often associated with His mighty acts and the deliverance of His people. For instance, in the Exodus narrative, God's fame is established through the miraculous events that lead to the liberation of the Israelites from Egypt. In
Exodus 9:16 , God declares to Pharaoh, "But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display My power in you and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth."
The Psalms frequently celebrate God's fame, emphasizing His sovereignty and the awe He inspires.
Psalm 96:3 exhorts, "Declare His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all peoples." This call to proclaim God's fame underscores the universal scope of His majesty and the expectation that all creation should recognize His greatness.
Prophetic Literature: The prophets also speak of God's fame, often in the context of His redemptive plans for Israel and the nations.
Isaiah 12:4 proclaims, "Give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples, proclaim that His name is exalted." Here, the prophet envisions a time when God's fame will be acknowledged worldwide, linked to His acts of salvation and justice.
New Testament Perspectives: In the New Testament, God's fame is further revealed through the person and work of Jesus Christ. The miracles and teachings of Jesus spread His fame throughout the regions of Galilee and beyond.
Mark 1:28 notes, "And the news about Him spread quickly through the whole region of Galilee." This fame is not merely about notoriety but signifies the in-breaking of God's kingdom and the revelation of His character through Christ.
The apostolic mission also contributes to the spread of God's fame. The early church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, becomes a vessel for proclaiming God's mighty works.
Acts 19:17 recounts, "When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor."
Theological Implications: God's fame is deeply connected to His glory and the fulfillment of His divine purposes. It is not an end in itself but serves to draw people into a relationship with Him, leading to worship and obedience. The fame of God is a testament to His holiness, love, and justice, inviting all creation to acknowledge His rightful place as the sovereign Lord.
Practical Application: Believers are called to participate in the proclamation of God's fame through their lives and witness. This involves living in a manner that reflects God's character and sharing the message of His salvation with others. As seen in
Matthew 5:16 , "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Conclusion: While the entry does not include a formal conclusion, it is evident that the fame of God is a central theme that permeates the biblical narrative, inviting all to recognize and respond to His unparalleled greatness.