2 Corinthians - 03.23.23
SCRIPTURE: 2 Corinthians 2:14b CEV
“God also helps us spread the knowledge about Christ everywhere, and this knowledge is like the smell of perfume.”
OBSERVATION:
Paul had experienced a number of unexpected setbacks and disappointments—yet—Paul’s Faith remained strong. He was confident that God was in control and working EVERYTHING for Good. Paul said, “Thanks be to God who ALWAYS leads us as captives in Christ’s “Triumphal Procession”.
The imagery Paul is using here is that of a “Roman Triumph” Procession—a special tribute that Rome gave their conquering generals. This would be a Parade of the Commander riding in a Golden Chariot-surrounded by his officers as they follow down a special route displaying the “Spoils of the Battle” as well as the captive enemy soldiers. The Roman priests would also be in the parade carrying burning incense to pay tribute to the Victorious army.
The aroma of the Priest’s incense was the fragrance of Life and Victory to the Triumphant Soldiers—but to the captive enemy it was the stench and odor of death.
APPLICATION:
Believers are to be the very Fragrance of Jesus Christ—
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of HIM everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life.” (2 Corinthians 2:14-16a NIV)
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus,
Your Word says “we are to Spread the Knowledge of You Everywhere”—and this is pleasing to You—it rises like a sweet aroma. I pray You will give me more and more courage and as the author of my faith—greater faith—to open my mouth and share—even when I don’t feel at my best—even when I feel weary, weak, and unclear—may my whole Trust be in You. May I remember I have the mind of Christ and the Holy Spirit. My Trust is IN You, Lord.
“Though the mountains be shaken
and the hills be removed,
yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken
nor my covenant of peace be removed,”
says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” (Isaiah 54:10 NIV)
Tina L Kudelka