“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.” 2 Corinthians 2:14
Paul had been anxious to hear from Titus how the Corinthian church had received his first letter. Had they responded to his loving, apostolic exhortations? Had they disciplined the sinning brother as he had instructed (1 Cor. 5; 2 Cor. 2:4)? Coming to Troas, Paul expected to see Titus. He did not show up. Was he delayed? Was he hurt? Even though the Lord had opened a door there for the gospel Paul was restless. Whether led by the Spirit or just in his weakness, Paul departed for Macedonia (2 Cor. 2:12-13). It was there that Titus’ arrival comforted him with the news that the Corinthians still had a fond affection for him and had acted on his Spirit-led words (7:5-13).
Alluding to “The Roman Triumph,” Paul joyfully erupted with thanksgiving to God (2:14). During this parade, the Romans celebrated military victories with a triumphal procession honoring the conquering general. Captured enemy prisoners were forced to march in the train while incense was burned along the route. It was the aroma of victory.
Through His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension, Christ won the battle at Calvary. By His death, the Holy One fully paid the penalty for our sin through His shed blood, satisfying a holy God’s justice, and opening the way of salvation for any who believe on Him (1 Pet. 1:18-19). From the cross He proclaimed this victory over sin with the victorious shout “Finished!” By His resurrection, Christ demonstrated His victory over death and His Father’s satisfaction with His offering. The grave could not hold the righteous One (Ps. 16:10-11). By His ascension the Father vindicated His righteous Servant (John 16:10) who demonstrated His victory over the evil one as He returned to His Father, disarming and routing the prince of the power of the air and his evil hordes (Eph. 4:8-10; Col. 2:15). Indeed “Calvary was not a battle; it was a conquest” (See Voices from the Past on page 7).
On the basis of Christ’s triumphant conquest, Paul pictured Christ leading him and all believers, captives of God’s grace, in an unremitting victory march that extends into eternity. Though we may have trying circumstances, outside conflicts and inner fears (2 Cor. 7:5), we can continue to live triumphantly for Christ and serve Him. We are not fighting for victory, but in our lives, worship, and service are following in the procession of Christ’s triumph, celebrating His already completed conquest. This is the continuing ministry of the cross as we await the shout, the redemption of our bodies, and transport to heaven.
To God we are the pleasing aroma of Christ. As we share the gospel, we are the fragrance of death leading to death for those who reject Christ and the fragrance of life leading to life for those who trust Him (vv.15-16). As we submit to Christ’s lordship, we emit a triumphal incense, releasing the fragrance of Christ through our lives and service. Even in our weaknesses and failures, the Lord continues to lead us in triumph, working out all things together for good to those who love him (Rom. 8:28). Later, the Lord did lead Paul back to Troas for fruitful and effective ministry (Acts 20:5-12).
Isaiah prophesied that God’s elect Servant, the Son of God “will not fail nor be discouraged…” (42:1, 4). During His first advent, the Lord carried out God’s eternal purposes with a resolute single-mindedness that could not be thwarted. It is with that same determination that Christ is continuing His work today in and through us. He will not fail to finish that work (Phil. 1:6).
“Who is sufficient for these things?” (2 Cor. 2:16). “Our sufficiency is from God” (2 Cor. 3:5). When we are downcast or troubled (2 Cor. 7:6), remember that Christ will continue to lead us in triumph. Forever!