In what ways can 2 Corinthians 2:16 inspire our evangelistic efforts? Aroma and Impact: What 2 Corinthians 2:16 Shows Us About Evangelism “to the one we are an odor of death and demise; to the other, a fragrance that brings life. And who is qualified for such a task?” Christ’s Fragrance Through Us • Paul pictures believers as incense bearers in a victory parade (cf. 2 Corinthians 2:14). • God actually diffuses “the fragrance of the knowledge of Him” through ordinary people. • Evangelism, then, is not primarily our eloquence; it is Christ’s unmistakable scent carried by a Spirit-filled life (John 15:5). Two Distinct Reactions, One Unchanging Message • The same gospel smells like life to repentant hearts and like death to the hardened. • Knowing in advance that responses will differ frees us from manipulating the message (Galatians 1:10). • We proclaim plainly and let God handle results (Acts 13:48). Sobriety and Urgency • “Odor of death” reminds us that rejection has eternal stakes (Hebrews 9:27). • “Fragrance that brings life” reminds us that acceptance yields eternal joy (John 3:36). • Because eternity is in view, we speak with both tenderness and seriousness (2 Timothy 4:2). Who Is Qualified? Our Sufficiency Is in God • Paul’s own rhetorical question—“Who is qualified?”—pushes us to confess: not one of us. • Immediate answer in 2 Corinthians 3:5: “Not that we are competent in ourselves... but our competence comes from God”. • Relying on the Spirit, we approach gospel conversations with humility, not self-confidence (Zechariah 4:6). Practical Encouragements for Everyday Witness • Abide daily in Christ so His aroma grows stronger. Time in prayer and the Word makes the fragrance unmistakable (Psalm 1:2–3). • Live transparently; hypocrisy dampens the scent (Matthew 5:16). • Expect mixed reactions without personalizing rejection (Luke 10:16). • Speak Scripture; the Word carries its own aroma and power (Romans 1:16). • Celebrate every positive response as evidence of life-giving grace (Acts 11:18). Confidence in God’s Triumph • 2 Corinthians 2:14 anchors the whole picture: “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him”. • Evangelism joins the Conqueror’s parade; victory is already secured. • Therefore, we share boldly, trusting the Lord to make His aroma unmistakable in every place we set foot. |
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