2 Corinthians 2:12-17 Triumph in Christ

After leading the Corinthian church into forgiveness toward a church member, Paul now focuses on the truth that is the life of Jesus Christ, which leads to a divine triumph over evil. The apostle now addresses the true fragrance of salvation and sincere teaching.

12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord, 13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find Titus my brother; but taking my leave of them, I departed for Macedonia.” (2 Corinthians 2:12-13)

It was in Troas, a large city on the Turkish Aegean coast that Paul received confirmation from the Lord, that he should proceed to Macedonia where he would preach the gospel. The apostle’s hope was that he would find Titus on this journey and get to hear about the status of the Corinthian church and its members. Paul had been longing for news from his beloved Corinth after his first letter to them earlier in the year.

14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” (2 Corinthians 2:14-15)

Paul gives thanks to God for leading his footsteps throughout his ministry, as the apostle continues to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ. The saved are described as a fragrance pleasurable to God, and distinct from the stench that rises from the lake of fire where skeptics burn in agony.

16 To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things?” (2 Corinthians 2:16)

God is the one who brings strength to the weak, and courage to the weary. A person’s spirit, saved in Christ is pleasing to God but means death to sin. Those in Christ exude a fragrance which is life while those without Christ pour out the stench of burning flesh.

17 For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 2:17)

Paul separates himself and his ministry from the Judaizers of the time, false teachers who did not deliver the true gospel but a crafty melange meant to benefit their own plan rather than God’s. Paul described his endeavor as one based on sincerity and responsibility toward God almighty.

All believers should allow this scripture to impact their daily lives just as Paul did. Driven by faith rather than greed, fueled by God’s pleasure which stems from a deep sense of responsibility, we must advance the gospel with Christ like love. Let us pray!

Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.

Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.

God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.

May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.

We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.

Praise God,
Amen!

This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com

Posted in Bible Studies.

Daniel St.Pierre