3 John 1:12 Demetrius has good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yes, and we also bear record; and you know that our record is true. There be two things which we ought all to procure — a good conscience in respect of God, and a good name in regard of men. 1. A good name is sweet and comfortable; it is preferred before the most precious things that men have in greatest estimation (Proverbs 22:3). 2. It is profitable. A good name maketh the bones fat. A good name maketh a man fat; he eats, he drinks, he sleeps the better for it. 3. It secures a man while he is alive; they that have a bad report for their injurious dealing are maligned; they go, in some sort, in danger of their lives; they that have a good report walk cheerfully and safely. 4. It is a consolation to a man, even on his deathbed; he hath the less, then, to vex and trouble his mind. 5. It leaves a sweet savour after us; when we be dead it is an odoriferous ointment; the house will smell of it a good while after. Therefore let us so live, that we may be well reported of, so far as it is possible of all men. I say, so far as it is possible; for in truth it is impossible; the best of us all must make account to pass through good report and ill report into the kingdom of heaven. (W. Jones, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true. |
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