MY
NAME’S NOT FOR SALE

Topics: Character; Christians; Compromise; Convictions; Glorifying God; Identity in Christ; Integrity; Money; Name

Reference: 1 Peter 4:14–16

Mark Cuban, owner of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, recently offered WGN Chicago Radio sports-talk host David Kaplan $50,000 to change his name legally to “Dallas Maverick.” When Kaplan declined, Cuban sweetened the offer. Cuban would pay Kaplan $100,000 and donate $100,000 to Kaplan’s favorite charity if he took the name for one year.

Despite some soul-searching and email bombardment from listeners, who said he was crazy to turn down the money, Kaplan held firm. “I’d be saying I’d do anything for money, and that bothers me,” Kaplan said. “My name is my birthright. I’d like to preserve my integrity and credibility.”

“Christian” is the birthright of every follower of Jesus Christ. We have a responsibility to live every day in a way that brings honor to that name.

—Skip Bayless, “Radio Host Prefers Class over Crass,” Chicago Tribune (January 10, 2001)