That is right, aside from doing "good" quests, paying money at the temple is another way to build rep. points. Though in your status, it sounds like you may have trouble making enough money to do much good. I would personally suggest you do a cheat for some money, enough to get your status into a comfortable position. You will certainly enjoy your game much more with higher rep. points. I believe the back part of the instrucion manual lists the point system.
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Larry, Sell-Sword to the OHF