2 Corinthians 2:15
For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:
2 Corinthians 2:15 (KJV)
Context
The Apostle Paul wrote the Second Epistle to the Corinthians to address various issues within the Corinthian church. In this verse, Paul discusses the nature of the ministry and the impact it has on different groups of people.
Meaning
Paul uses the imagery of a “sweet savour” to describe the ministry of himself and his fellow workers. The phrase “sweet savour” refers to a pleasing fragrance or aroma that is offered as a sacrifice to God. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were often accompanied by incense, symbolizing worship and the offering of one’s life to God. The imagery draws from the Old Testament concept of sacrificial offerings, where a pleasing aroma ascends to God.
In this context, Paul is saying that their ministry, which is centered on Christ and the Gospel, is like a pleasing fragrance to God. It implies that their service and proclamation of the Gospel are acceptable and pleasing to God. They are fulfilling their role as ministers of Christ faithfully. The “sweet savour” is not the believer’s own merit but the merit of Christ, which makes the believer’s offering acceptable. The emphasis is on the believer’s position and purpose before God, not on the outcome in the hearers.
The phrase “in them that are saved” highlights the transformative power of the Gospel. Through their ministry, Paul and his team witness the change that occurs in the lives of believers. The Gospel brings about salvation, reconciliation with God, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The message of the Gospel brings salvation to those who believe. When people respond to the preaching of the Gospel and put their faith in Christ, it is a testimony to the effectiveness of the ministry.
Interestingly, Paul also mentions that their ministry is a “sweet savour of Christ” even among those who are perishing. This refers to those who reject the message of the Gospel and remain in spiritual darkness. The preaching of the Gospel may not always result in the salvation of everyone who hears it. However, it still has an impact on their lives. The ministry of Paul and his team serves as a testimony and a witness to those who reject the Gospel. It confronts them with the truth and challenges their unbelief. Although some may reject the message and ultimately perish, the responsibility of the ministers is to faithfully proclaim the Gospel. The same gospel message brings life to some and judgment to others, but the believer’s responsibility is to be a faithful channel of the fragrance of Christ.
Application
Faithful ministry: This verse reminds us of the importance of faithfully ministering the Gospel. Just as Paul and his companions were a pleasing fragrance to God, we should strive to serve Christ and share the message of salvation faithfully. Our ministry should reflect Christ’s love, grace, and truth.
Impact on others: We should recognize that our ministry has an impact on both believers and unbelievers. Among believers, our lives and teachings should inspire and encourage their faith. Among unbelievers, our witness may challenge their unbelief and convict their hearts. We should be mindful of the influence our lives have on those around us.
Perseverance in the face of rejection: Paul’s mention of the “them that perish” reminds us that not everyone will accept the Gospel message. We may face rejection and opposition when sharing the Good News. However, we should not be discouraged but continue to faithfully proclaim the Gospel, leaving the results to God.
Our lives as a pleasing fragrance to God: Just as the ministry of Paul and his companions was a “sweet savour of Christ,” we are called to live our lives in a way that brings glory to God. Our actions, words, and attitudes should reflect Christ’s character, so that our lives become an offering that pleases God.
The believer’s life is a continual offering, and its value is determined by its connection to Christ. The verse assures that the believer’s service is acceptable to God in Christ, even when it does not produce visible results. This encourages believers to persevere in their calling, understanding that their labor is not in vain because it is offered to God through Christ.
Remember to study the surrounding verses and the entire chapter to gain a deeper understanding of the context and the message conveyed by Paul in his letter to the Corinthians.
