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But thanks to The God, the One who always leads us in triumph1 in union with the Christ. [He] is the one manifesting the fragrance His knowledge through us in every place.2
| 1 | Always leads us in triumph: Or, CON: in the train of his triumph; WEY: triumphal procession; AMP: as trophies of Christ’s victories; MOF: he makes my life a constant pageant or triumph in Christ. Paul may allude to the Roman victory marches after a great victory. |
| 2 | Manifesting the fragrance His knowledge through us in every place: Or, odor, perfume. Like the rose petals and scented flowers thrown before a conquering hero. |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose 2 Corinthians 2:14 as the theme of the chapter – Sadness and Cheer. Paul knows where he is going with some stern counsel to the Corinthians, so he began with words of comfort. In chapter two he moves to the subject of “sadness” with a mixture of joy and cheer. [1-4] He tells the congregation that he loves them.
This introduces a case of sexual immorality mentioned in 1 Corinthians chapter five. The “majority” in the congregation had rebuked such a brother, but Paul now calls on them to forgive him. [5-11] He says this so that, “we never be grabbed by Satan, for we are not ignorant of his designs.” [TCV]
In describing the Christian Church Paul uses the analogy of a “triumphal procession” similar to victorious Roman leaders. [14-17] Sweet smelling flower pedals were scattered before such conquerors so the odor of their victory was spread everywhere. Just so Christ is a “sweet fragrance” to all being saved leading to Life.
Unlike some modern television evangelists Paul states that he and his associates “are not peddling the Word of God.” Rather, he speaks out of sincerity and in harmony with the teachings of Christ.
May Heaven cheer us up.
[13 June 2002]
A Roman triumph was given because of victory; God always gave the victory, through Christ, in the end. He had feared that Corinth would be an exception. The figure is that of a sacrifice. A sweet-smelling savor was diffused by the offerings. So, through them everywhere, the knowledge of God was made known, and was grateful to the saved.
