2 Corinthians 2
by Philip Layton
Paul describes Christians as ‘an aroma of Christ’
Click here to read 2 Corinthians 2
Discussion Question
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To those who want to hear the gospel and to those who don’t, are you aware of your spiritual ‘smell’ (v 15)?
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Going Deeper From 'Words of Life'
We are people of the new covenant. Because of this, as Paul emphasises to the Corinthians, we have the awesome responsibility to spread the beautiful ‘fragrance’ of Christ to others. The apostle is fully aware of the desperate need for people to be saved, so continues:
For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing (v 15).
Paul had faced so much pressure in his ministry: persecution, opposition, unexpected difficulties. Yet he still speaks in terms of working for Christ as triumph, not defeat. In fact he uses the term ‘triumphal procession’, relating to Roman spectacles of which the Corinthians would be very aware – the general of the day leading a procession through the streets of Rome, following a great victory. The aroma of incense would be evident at these significant events.
Christ is the universal conqueror. And because of this profound truth, we are the ones spreading the incense, the fragrance, the aroma of Christ wherever we minister in his name. It is about sharing the gospel with the world, in our communities, with the person living next door.
Can we smell the aroma? It is beautiful! Do we have the assurance in our heart that others will take in this sweet fragrance? Today, be intentional in spreading the beautiful aroma of Christ to at least one person. For we are the aroma. We are Christ’s hands, his feet. The beauty of Jesus, seen in us.
Prayer
Lord, I want to bask in your delightful fragrance so that I will be able to spread the aroma of Christ to others. Help me to share the good news of the gospel with someone, even today.
Beverly Ivany
Tags: 2 Corinthians