THE FRAGRANCE OF CHRIST

Paul compared the ministry of evangelism to the Roman military parades that were common in his time. The conquering heroes carried garlands of flowers and burned incense to their gods as they marched prisoners of war through the streets. Spectators and all those in the procession breathed in a strong fragrance as it wafted in the air. 

But thanks be to God, who always leads us in Christ’s triumphal procession and through us spreads the aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. 2 Corinthians 2:14

At the parade’s finale, many of the captives would be killed. Thus, the aromas were pleasing and life-giving to the victors, but they were the smell of death to those who had been defeated.

For to God, we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To some we are an aroma of death leading to death, but to others, an aroma of life leading to life. 2 Corinthians 2:15-16

Believers are considered soldiers in the Lord’s army, emitting the fragrance of the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ. For those who surrender to His Lordship, the aroma represents the joy of their salvation. But for those who refuse, the smell is offensive ... bringing condemnation.

And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil. John 3:19

That which took place on Calvary's cross released an aroma ... the 'sweet savor' of a perfect sacrifice. It therefore satisfied God's righteous judgment for man's sin. When we trust Christ's redemptive act, that 'fragrance' clings to us. 

Walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. Ephesians 5:2

It should be evident in our walk of faith.

When we've been alone with Jesus,
There's a difference others know;
And to them, it's like a fragrance
That we leave where'er we go. - Hess

Can people inhale the goodness and grace of God because of your intimate relationship with Christ?