Illusion Of Scent

The Apostle Paul has got to be the master of using word pictures. In 2 Corinthians 2:12-17, Paul uses the pictures of smell and scent to help us understand how we should walk the walk.

Verse 12: When I came to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ….
Staying focused upon the gospel is what is important for us. All else is mere fluff and of little or no value.

Verse 13: ….my spirit was not at rest because I did not find my brother Titus there.
We are to care about our brothers and sisters in Christ and by extention, people in general. Our prayers should be uplifting our brothers and sisters, for our spiritual leaders, for needs within the Body, for the salvation of the lost we know.

Verse 14: ….and through us spreads the knowledge of Him everywhere.
I can not read this verse without smiling. We should not only to be observed by the world around us, but to be sniffed! We are to get out into the world.

Verse 15: For we are the aroma of Christ….
In other words, you smell like something, so let it be Jesus that you smell like to all of those whom are sniffing and observing you.

Verse 16: ….to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life.
Some people are not going to like what they smell, others will. Do not sweat their reactions (assuming you are walking on safe ground in Jesus!). But do be aware of reactions to what you smell like!

Verse 17: For we are not, like so many, peddlers of the God’s Word, but men of sincerity….
Treat the Gospel with integrity. Adding to this message with our own issues and beliefs only cheapens His message, making fools of us in the world’s eyes.