Renown in the biblical context often refers to the fame, reputation, or honor that individuals or nations acquire due to their actions, character, or divine favor. The concept of renown is frequently associated with God's glory and the acknowledgment of His mighty works among the nations.

In the Old Testament, renown is often linked to God's chosen people, Israel, and their leaders. For instance, in Deuteronomy 26:19, God promises to set Israel "high above all nations which He has made, in praise, in name, and in honor," indicating that their renown is tied to their obedience and relationship with Him. Similarly, King David's renown is highlighted in 1 Chronicles 14:17: "So David’s fame spread throughout every land, and the LORD caused all nations to fear him."

The prophets also speak of renown in terms of restoration and divine favor. In Ezekiel 34:29, God promises to raise up a "plant of renown" for His people, symbolizing prosperity and divine blessing. This promise of renown is not merely for human glory but serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and power.

In the New Testament, the concept of renown shifts towards the renown of Jesus Christ and His followers. The early church's growth and the spread of the Gospel are often described in terms of increasing renown. Acts 19:17 recounts how "the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor" in Ephesus, illustrating how the renown of Christ's name spread through miraculous works and the testimony of believers.

Witness

The term "witness" in the Bible carries significant theological and practical implications. It refers to the act of testifying to the truth, often concerning God's character, deeds, and the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

In the Old Testament, the concept of witness is foundational to the legal and covenantal systems. Deuteronomy 19:15 states, "A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses," underscoring the importance of reliable testimony in establishing truth and justice. The prophets also serve as witnesses, called by God to testify against Israel's unfaithfulness and to proclaim His promises.

The New Testament expands the role of witness, particularly in relation to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The apostles are primary witnesses, as seen in Acts 1:8, where Jesus commissions them: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This mandate underscores the responsibility of believers to testify to the truth of the Gospel.

The concept of witness also extends to the Holy Spirit, who is described as a witness to Christ's work and the believer's adoption as children of God (Romans 8:16). Furthermore, the lives of believers serve as a witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, as they are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling (Ephesians 4:1).

In Revelation, the theme of witness culminates in the testimony of the martyrs, who bear witness to their faith even unto death, exemplifying the ultimate commitment to the truth of Christ's message.