The Fragrance Of Christ

For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things? 

II Corinthians 2:15-16 

What affect does our life have when we make much of Christ? Paul was convinced of the truth of the gospel. He proclaimed it far and wide. The preaching of Christ, and more than that, the imitation of Christ was his passion. He went to the ends of the earth to make Christ known by life and lip. He was cognitively aware his life was having an effect. He articulates it in our text. This fragrance of which he speaks is the way in which others encountered Christ by their contact with Paul. They could smell Christ when they were around Paul. This was because Paul spent much time in the presence of Christ. His experience of Christ gave his life the fragrance of Him. Not everyone reacted the same way to Paul’s representation of Christ. Some abhorred the smell and depart to pursue the things that end in death. Others found this fragrance delightful. Regardless of how people received it, Paul understood the importance of making much of Christ. As we spend time with Christ, we began to bear His aroma. Others will find this either acceptable or unacceptable. Either way, the important thing is for us to remain close to Him.  

Our Gracious Master and our God, 
we rejoice that we have the privilege to walk with You. 
We praise you that as we do, 
Your fragrance becomes ours. 

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning