29th October 2025

A Pleasing Aroma

For we are to God the fragrance of Christ

among those who are being saved

and among those who are perishing.

2 Corinthians 2:15

Today's Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17.

In today's text, 2 Corinthians 2:15, the Apostle Paul is using imagery of a Roman victory parade to describe the ministry of the Gospel. Taking a closer look, we are told . . .

“We are to God the fragrance of Christ.” Paul is saying that believers—especially those spreading the Gospel—are like a sweet-smelling aroma to God. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were often described as a “pleasing aroma” to God. Paul uses this to say that the life and work of believers reflects Christ and pleases God.

“Among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” The Gospel message goes out to everyone, both: those who accept it (being saved), and those who reject it (perishing). The fragrance is the same, but how it's received differs depending on the heart of the hearer. Paul may have been alluding to a Roman triumph parade, where: Victorious generals paraded captives through the streets. Incense was burned along the route, symbolising victory and power. To Romans, it smelled like victory, but to the captives, it was the smell of defeat and death. Likewise, the message of Christ is: Life to some, Judgment to others.

As Christians live and share the Gospel, they “carry the fragrance of Christ.” It’s not our job to change the reaction people have—only to remain faithful in carrying that fragrance. The life of every Christian believer should reflect Christ in such a way that His presence is noticed everywhere we go.

Prayer: Dear Lord God, let my life be a sweet fragrance of Christ to everyone I encounter, drawing hearts to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.