2 CorinthiansSample

Paul had actually intended to meet Titus in Troas to hear how the church in Corinth was doing. But Titus wasn't there—and Paul found himself in an inner conflict: Should he take the opportunity to proclaim the gospel in Troas or travel on to find Titus? Paul decides on the latter. And he experiences that no matter where he goes, Jesus opens doors for him to speak about Him.

Paul describes himself as part of a triumph, like the Roman triumphal processions the Corinthians knew: Christ is the victor, and Paul is allowed to walk behind Him and witness the victory—not by his own strength, but because Jesus has already won the victory.

Paul understands his life as a "pleasing aroma of God"—an image reminiscent of the incense offering (cf. Leviticus 1:17). What is decisive is not how others see him, but how God perceives his life. The message of Jesus has different effects: for some, it is a life-giving scent; for others, a stumbling block. But that is not in Paul's hands—his task is to proclaim faithfully.

For Reflection:

You get to be part of Jesus' triumphal procession—not because you are strong, but because He leads you along. No matter where you are right now, your life can be a pleasing aroma of God—for the glory of His name. You get to tell others about Jesus—He does the rest.