2 Corinthians 2:14
Verse
Context
Triumph in Christ
13I had no peace in my spirit, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said goodbye to them and went on to Macedonia.14But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him.15For we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.
Sermons
Erlo Stegen
J. Vernon McGee
Zac Poonen
Roy Hession
Art KatzSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now, thanks be unto God - His coming dispelled all my fears, and was the cause of the highest satisfaction to my mind; and filled my heart with gratitude to God, who is the Author of all good, and who always causes us to triumph in Christ; not only gives us the victory, but such a victory as involves the total ruin of our enemies; and gives us cause of triumphing in him, through whom we have obtained this victory. A triumph, among the Romans, to which the apostle here alludes, was a public and solemn honor conferred by them on a victorious general, by allowing him a magnificent procession through the city. This was not granted by the senate unless the general had gained a very signal and decisive victory; conquered a province, etc. On such occasions the general was usually clad in a rich purple robe, interwoven with figures of gold, setting forth the grandeur of his achievements; his buskins were beset with pearls, and he wore a crown, which at first was of laurel, but was afterwards of pure gold. In one hand he had a branch of laurel, the emblem of victory; and in the other, his truncheon. He was carried in a magnificent chariot, adorned with ivory and plates of gold, and usually drawn by two white horses. (Other animals were also used: when Pompey triumphed over Africa, his chariot was drawn by elephants; that of Mark Antony, by lions; that of Heliogabalus, by tigers; and that of Aurelius, by deer.) His children either sat at his feet in the chariot, or rode on the chariot horses. To keep him humble amidst these great honors a slave stood at his back, casting out incessant railings, and reproaches; and carefully enumerating all his vices, etc. Musicians led up the procession, and played triumphal pieces in praise of the general; and these were followed by young men, who led the victims which were to be sacrificed on the occasion, with their horns gilded, and their heads and necks adorned with ribbons and garlands. Next followed carts loaded with the spoils taken from the enemy, with their horses, chariots, etc. These were followed by the kings, princes, or generals taken in the war, loaded with chains. Immediately after these came the triumphal chariot, before which, as it passed, the people strewed flowers, and shouted Io, triumphe! The triumphal chariot was followed by the senate; and the procession was closed by the priests and their attendants, with the different sacrificial utensils, and a white ox, which was to be the chief victim. They then passed through the triumphal arch, along the via sacra to the capitol, where the victims were slain. During this time all the temples were opened, and every altar smoked with offerings and incense. The people at Corinth were sufficiently acquainted with the nature of a triumph: about two hundred years before this, Lucius Mummius, the Roman consul, had conquered all Achaia, destroyed Corinth, Thebes, and Chalcis; and, by order of the senate, had a grand triumph, and was surnamed Achaicus. St. Paul had now a triumph (but of a widely different kind) over the same people; his triumph was in Christ, and to Christ he gives all the glory; his sacrifice was that of thanksgiving to his Lord; and the incense offered on the occasion caused the savour of the knowledge of Christ to be manifested in every place. As the smoke of the victims and incense offered on such an occasion would fill the whole city with their perfume, so the odour of the name and doctrine of Christ filled the whole of Corinth and the neighboring regions; and the apostles appeared as triumphing in and through Christ, over devils, idols, superstition, ignorance, and vice, wherever they came.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now--Greek, "But." Though we left Troas disappointed in not meeting Titus there, and in having to leave so soon so wide a door, "thanks be unto God," we were triumphantly blessed in both the good news of you from Titus, and in the victories of the Gospel everywhere in our progress. The cause of triumph cannot be restricted (as ALFORD explains) to the former; for "always," and "in every place," show that the latter also is intended. causeth us to triumph--The Greek, is rather, as in Col 2:15, "triumphs over us": "leadeth us in triumph." Paul regarded himself as a signal trophy of God's victorious power in Christ. His Almighty Conqueror was leading him about, through all the cities of the Greek and Roman world, as an illustrious example of His power at once to subdue and to save. The foe of Christ was now the servant of Christ. As to be led in triumph by man is the most miserable, so to be led in triumph by God is the most glorious, lot that can befall any [TRENCH]. Our only true triumphs are God's triumphs over us. His defeats of us are our only true victories [ALFORD]. The image is taken from the triumphal procession of a victorious general. The additional idea is perhaps included, which distinguishes God's triumph from that of a human general, that the captive is brought into willing obedience (Co2 10:5) to Christ, and so joins in the triumph: God "leads him in triumph" as one not merely triumphed over, but also as one triumphing over God's foes with God (which last will apply to the apostle's triumphant missionary progress under the leading of God). So BENGEL: "Who shows us in triumph, not [merely] as conquered, but as the ministers of His victory. Not only the victory, but the open 'showing' of the victory is marked: for there follows, Who maketh manifest." savour--retaining the image of a triumph. As the approach of the triumphal procession was made known by the odor of incense scattered far and wide by the incense-bearers in the train, so God "makes manifest by us" (His now at once triumphed over and triumphing captives, compare Luk 5:10, "Catch," literally, "Take captive so as to preserve alive") the sweet savor of the knowledge of Christ, the triumphant Conqueror (Col 2:15), everywhere. As the triumph strikes the eyes, so the savor the nostrils; thus every sense feels the power of Christ's Gospel. This manifestation (a word often recurring in his Epistles to the Corinthians, compare Co1 4:5) refutes the Corinthian suspicions of his dishonestly, by reserve, hiding anything from them (Co2 2:17; Co2 4:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now thanks be unto God,.... The apostle having mentioned the door that was opened for him at Troas, to preach the Gospel with success, calls to mind the great and manifold appearances of God for him and his fellow ministers, in blessing their labours to the conversion of many souls; which causes him to break forth into thanksgiving to God, on this account: what he takes notice of, and is thankful to God for is, that he always causeth us to triumph in Christ; not only had done so, but continued to do so: some versions ascribe this act of triumph to God, as his act, reading the passage thus, "now thanks be unto God, who triumphs over us", or "by us in Christ"; who has conquered us by his grace, and made use of us as instruments for the conversion of sinners; and so first triumphed over us, having subdued us to himself, and then over others by us, in whose hearts the arrows of his word have been sharp and powerful: so the word is used for the person's own act of triumph spoken of, Co2 2:15, but here it signifies, as words do in the Hebrew conjugation "Hiphil", which most commonly denotes an effect upon another, or which is caused and produced in another, and is rightly rendered, "which causeth us to triumph"; and refers not to the triumph of faith, common with the apostles to other believers; though this is in Christ, in his righteousness, death, resurrection, ascension, session at God's right hand, and intercession; and is what God causes, and to whom thanks is to be given for it: but this is a triumph peculiar to ministers of the Gospel, who are made to triumph over men and devils, over the world, the reproaches, persecutions, smiles, and flatteries of it; over wicked men, by silencing them, stopping the mouths of gainsayers, refuting false teachers, and preserving the Gospel pure, in spite of all opposition; and by being made useful to the turning of many souls from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God: and this is in Christ: it is owing to the victory he has got; it is by his strength, it is in his name, for his sake, and because of his glory herein concerned: and always; wherever the ministers of Christ are called to labour, and wherever the Gospel is purely and powerfully preached by them, some good is done; and they are made to triumph over hell and earth, over sin, Satan, and the world; and for all this, thanks is due to God; for he it is that causes them to triumph, or they never could; as will easily appear, if we consider what poor weak instruments they themselves are; what opposition is made against them; what wonderful things are done by them; by what means they triumph, by the preaching of the cross, and that in the midst of the greatest pressures and afflictions. Thanks are also given to God, that he maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place; by "his knowledge" is meant, either the knowledge of God, who causes the ministers of the Gospel to triumph; or the knowledge of Christ, in whom they triumph; or rather of both, of the knowledge of God in Christ; and designs the Gospel, which is the means thereof: and which is said to have a "savour" in it, and denotes the acceptableness of it to sensible souls; and the good name, fame, and credit, which Christ has by the faithful ministration of it; and is an allusion to Sol 1:3. Now this, God is said to make manifest; it was hid before, hid in himself, and to the sons of men; it was like a box of ointment shut, but now opened by the preaching of the word, which diffuses a fragrant smell; and therefore he is said to make it manifest "by us": the ministers of the Gospel, who openly, boldly, and faithfully preach it; and "by manifestation of the truth"; spread the savour of it, and that "in every place", where they come; their commission being at large, to go into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:14–7:4 At this point, the story about finding Titus breaks off and will not be resumed until 7:5. Paul digresses to discuss his ministry as an apostle proclaiming the Good News. 2:14 Like captives in a Roman general’s celebration march, Paul was in Christ’s triumphal procession (cp. 1 Cor 4:9; Eph 4:7-11), carrying the marks of willing servitude (see Rom 1:1; Gal 6:17).
2 Corinthians 2:14
Triumph in Christ
13I had no peace in my spirit, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said goodbye to them and went on to Macedonia.14But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him.15For we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Fragrant Life
By Erlo Stegen4.3K1:17:14Living WorthyPRO 13:20MAT 6:33MRK 14:32CO 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a heart that has been visited and filled by Jesus. He uses the story of Baron von Sincendorf and his friends discussing their passions to illustrate the idea of having a deep love for the Lord. The speaker also talks about how people with similar lifestyles and beliefs are drawn to each other, using examples of drunkards and immoral individuals. He then compares Jesus' questioning of Peter to the American use of bunker buster bombs, highlighting the penetrating power of Jesus' love and the need for our hearts to be pierced by Him.
(A Heavenly Church) 4. the Faith of Jesus
By Zac Poonen3.6K1:07:09New Covenant LivingFaithISA 55:8EZK 36:27MAT 6:21LUK 18:8ROM 4:201CO 2:162CO 2:14PHP 2:13HEB 11:401JN 2:1Zac Poonen emphasizes the rarity of true faith and love in today's world, referencing Luke 18:8, where Jesus questions if He will find faith on earth upon His return. He critiques the shallow, intellectual understanding of faith that many believers possess, which leads to a lack of spiritual depth and experience of God's power. Poonen encourages believers to seek a deeper, experiential faith that aligns with the New Testament, where faith is not merely belief in facts but a transformative relationship with God that empowers them to live as Jesus did. He highlights the importance of surrendering to the Holy Spirit, allowing God to write His laws in our hearts, and living a life that reflects the values of the Kingdom of Heaven rather than earthly concerns. Ultimately, he calls for a faith that is active, vibrant, and reflective of Christ's own faith, urging believers to evaluate their lives and priorities in light of eternal truths.
The Only Written Prophecy of Elijah
By J. Vernon McGee3.1K44:48MAT 6:332CO 2:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the gospel and the responsibility of individuals to respond to it. He highlights that while there are many books and ideas in the world, ultimately God will judge the world through Jesus Christ. The preacher references the apostle Paul's presentation of the gospel to Felix, which caused him to tremble. He also mentions Peter's warning that judgment will begin with the house of God. The preacher encourages the listeners to consider the gospel and make a decision for themselves, as it is their responsibility.
Through the Bible - Joshua
By Zac Poonen3.1K57:26EXO 12:7JOS 3:15JOS 4:6JOS 4:14MAT 6:33ROM 6:142CO 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God when He performs miracles in our lives. He uses the example of the Israelites crossing the River Jordan and building a memorial of stones to remember God's faithfulness. The speaker also warns against seeking advice from others instead of seeking guidance from the Lord, as the Israelites did when they made a covenant with their neighbors without consulting God. He encourages listeners to focus on what God is saying rather than wasting time studying the opinions of critics. The sermon concludes with the reminder that our calling is to share and tell others to listen to what God is saying, just as Moses, Joshua, and Peter did.
(Names of Jehovah) 3. Jehovah Nissi
By Roy Hession2.7K51:21Spiritual WarfareVictory in ChristJehovah NissiEXO 17:15PSA 60:4ISA 59:19JHN 16:33ROM 8:371CO 15:572CO 2:14GAL 5:171TH 5:23HEB 7:25Roy Hession explores the name Jehovah Nissi, emphasizing that God is our banner and source of victory in spiritual battles. He recounts the story of Israel's battle against Amalek, illustrating how Moses' intercession and the support of Aaron and Hur led to Israel's triumph. Hession highlights the internal conflict between the flesh and the spirit, urging believers to recognize and combat the flesh with the help of the Holy Spirit. He reassures that with Jehovah as our banner, we can overcome our struggles and experience God's provision and victory in all aspects of life. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to trust in Jehovah Nissi for their battles, both internal and external.
(Texas 2009) God Has Provided Something Better for Us
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:05:22New Covenant1CO 11:12CO 2:14PHP 4:4HEB 11:4HEB 11:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the disappointment faced by Moses when he was unable to enter the land of Canaan due to losing his temper. The speaker emphasizes that when more is given to someone, more is required from them, using the example of Moses and the children of Israel. The speaker highlights the importance of how one lives their life outside of church, including their behavior at home and in the workplace. They also emphasize the significance of following the example of Jesus as a forerunner, rather than just following a set of laws. The sermon concludes with a reminder that it is not just about starting the Christian race well, but also about finishing well.
K-033 Extravagant Love
By Art Katz1.7K1:13:55Love2CO 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the significance of the suffering and death of Jesus. The event of Jesus' crucifixion was so powerful that it caused even the dead to come out of their graves. It revealed God's love in the most profound way and serves as the ultimate revelation of who God truly is. The speaker also discusses the importance of obeying the commandment to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and how many Christians struggle to truly live out this commandment.
The Earnest of Heaven
By C.H. Spurgeon1.6K42:12MAT 6:33LUK 15:6ACT 9:111CO 2:102CO 2:14REV 7:14REV 21:27The sermon transcript discusses the joy in heaven when a lost sheep is found and when sinners repent. It emphasizes the joy and celebration among the angels and saints in heaven when someone turns to God. The sermon also mentions the importance of studying the Bible and seeking God's message in the text. It concludes by highlighting the eternal joy and service of the people of God in heaven, never growing weary or hoarse with music.
A Concern for God's Name
By Zac Poonen1.5K49:24ReverenceMAT 5:32CO 2:14PHP 4:4PHP 4:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the challenging nature of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5, 6, and 7. He acknowledges that these chapters do not provide explicit instructions on how to attain the qualities mentioned, such as being poor in spirit or pure in heart. The speaker highlights the importance of looking upward to God, inward to examine oneself, and outward to serve others. He also discusses the significance of thirst and the need for the Holy Spirit in one's life.
Verses to Cope With Crises
By William MacDonald1.5K45:47CrisesPSA 126:5ROM 8:312CO 2:122CO 2:14COL 3:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark chapter 4, verses 35 to 41. He emphasizes the idea that even when we feel like the boat is about to sink in the midst of adversity, Jesus is with us and can bring peace to our lives. The speaker also highlights the importance of staying faithful to God's mission, even in the face of challenges and discouragement. He shares examples of individuals who remained steadfast in their service to God and encourages listeners to trust in God's power and grace.
(Daniel: The Man God Uses #4) Fragrance of Christ
By Ed Miller1.3K1:14:02ChristMAT 6:332CO 2:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the testimony of King Nebuchadnezzar from the book of Daniel in the Bible. The preacher highlights how Nebuchadnezzar, the king of all the earth, openly shares his experience of going insane for seven years. The preacher emphasizes that this testimony is significant because it shows a change that occurred in Nebuchadnezzar's life. The preacher also mentions that the story in Daniel chapter 4 and 5 provides clear pictures that can be understood when one knows what to look for.
The Burden of Jesus' Heart
By Zac Poonen1.3K1:02:37MAT 5:16JHN 17:172CO 2:14EPH 4:32JAS 1:51PE 2:9REV 2:10
This sermon emphasizes the deep intimacy Jesus had with His heavenly Father, as seen in John 17, revealing the burden of Jesus' heart for unity among believers. It challenges Christians to study John 17 to understand how they may have disappointed Jesus and fallen short of His desires. The sermon highlights the importance of being set apart from the world, seeking to live a life that reflects God's goodness and love, ultimately pointing to the responsibility believers have to show the world that the Father sent Jesus and that His love never ceases.
The Cup and the Fire - Part 3
By T. Austin-Sparks1.2K49:06Christian LifeLUK 12:49LUK 12:511CO 3:102CO 2:14HEB 12:261PE 1:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the testing of the Israelites' hearts during the 40 days and nights that Moses was on Mount Sinai. The Israelites failed this test when they engaged in idolatry and worshiped a golden calf. The speaker then transitions to the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus speaks about bringing division rather than peace on earth. The speaker explains that the coming of the Holy Spirit, symbolized by fire, brings judgment and tests the motives and intentions of people's hearts. This judgment extends to human relationships, as the fiery sword discerns the true nature of individuals.
When the Messenger and Message Become One
By Dennis Kinlaw1.2K56:58Messenger1CO 11:12CO 2:142CO 11:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on a specific passage in the Bible, 2 Corinthians 2:14-3:6. He explains that this passage is the essence of what Paul wants to convey to the Corinthians. The speaker challenges the traditional interpretation of this passage, which suggests that believers march triumphantly through life in the train of the conquering Christ. Instead, he presents a historical context where a victorious general captures key figures alive to be a showpiece for him. The speaker then connects this concept to the apostles being put on display by God, highlighting their suffering and persecution for the sake of Christ.
How to Overcome Addictions
By Jim Van Gelderen1.1K55:54MAT 5:16ROM 6:141CO 10:132CO 2:14EPH 4:22COL 3:51PE 2:12The video begins by describing a documentary where a camera was placed on the bottom of a Blue Angels jet, giving viewers the sensation of flying in the jet. The speaker then shares an anecdote about his daughters witnessing two teenagers getting sick while watching the documentary. The sermon then transitions to discussing the importance of knowing the right facts before making decisions, using the example of the debate over whether the country should have gone to war in Iraq. The speaker emphasizes the need for factual information in order to make informed decisions and applies this concept to the importance of knowing the transforming power of Christ in our lives. The sermon concludes by introducing Romans chapter 6 as a passage that confronts and challenges listeners, offering insights into the actions that God calls us to take in our faith.
God's First Messages to Man - (1) Forty Messages From Genesis Chapters 1 to 11
By Zac Poonen1.0K56:07GEN 1:1GEN 1:26GEN 1:28GEN 1:31JHN 15:5ROM 6:142CO 2:142CO 4:16PHP 4:19
This sermon emphasizes the importance of studying the Scriptures in a transformative way, focusing on key lessons from Genesis chapter 1. It highlights the need to be honest about our spiritual condition, submit to the Holy Spirit's work, listen to God's word daily, separate from darkness, understand sanctification as a daily process, allow God to reproduce His image in us, be rulers over our passions, trust in God's provision, rely on His blessing for fruitfulness, and believe that God can make something beautiful out of our lives.
Into the All Sufficiency of Christ #2 - Fulness
By Ed Miller94549:542CO 2:142CO 3:122CO 3:172CO 4:5COL 2:3In this sermon, the preacher focuses on 2 Corinthians 4 and 5 as the basis for his message. He emphasizes the importance of not preaching oneself, but rather preaching Christ Jesus as Lord and serving others as bond-servants for Jesus' sake. The preacher then introduces the concept of the Roman triumphus, a parade held in Rome after a victory, to illustrate the transformation that occurs when one becomes a bondservant of God and man. He highlights three key changes that take place when one crosses the line into this new way of living. The sermon also explores the process by which God creates a bondservant's heart and the need for believers to be pressed beyond their own limitations and into the all-sufficiency of the Lord Jesus.
Growing in the Grace of God #17 - More Characteristics of New Covenant Living Part 1
By Bob Hoekstra82747:04MAT 6:332CO 1:122CO 2:142CO 3:32CO 3:182CO 4:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the ministry of mercy and how God wants to mark us as those who minister by His mercy. The speaker acknowledges that reaching people can be challenging, especially when they seem blind to the message. The enemy uses various tactics to blind people, but our message is the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of shining the light of Christ into the darkness of the world and appealing to people's conscience.
Knowing Jesus as Our Bridegroom by Sanjay Poonen & Zac Poonen
By Zac Poonen7221:11:012CO 2:14
This sermon emphasizes the importance of truly knowing Jesus, not just knowing about Him. It highlights the need to have a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus, to hate sin that crucified Him, and to pursue a deep love for Him above all else. The speaker encourages humility, a focus on inner transformation, and a genuine pursuit of knowing Jesus as the ultimate goal.
Sufficiency for Godly Living #6 - Resurrected Living by God's Sufficiency
By Bob Hoekstra7051:00:45GEN 2:7MAT 6:331CO 15:31CO 15:582CO 2:142CO 3:6EPH 1:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenges and burdens that believers may face in their lives. He emphasizes that even great leaders like Jesus and Paul experienced difficulties and hardships. The speaker shares a personal story about a family who came to know the Lord and highlights the transformation that occurred when they embraced a relationship with Jesus rather than religious practices. He also shares his own experience of feeling hopeless and dead in his ministry until a young man approached him with an opportunity to teach a home Bible study, which ultimately brought him out of his despair. The sermon concludes with the speaker reflecting on the power of God to call believers out of their metaphorical tombs, just as Jesus called Lazarus out of the tomb.
It's Worth It!
By Basilea Schlink70204:35Radio ShowMAT 11:30ROM 8:371CO 15:572CO 2:141PE 5:81JN 5:4REV 2:10In this sermon by Basilia Schlenk titled "It's Worth It," she encourages listeners to persevere through difficult circumstances and relationships. She references Matthew 11:30, where Jesus assures us that God has placed these challenges in our lives to draw us closer to Him. Schlenk emphasizes that through these trials, God wants to help us find true love and joy that comes from Him. She urges listeners to fight the good fight of faith, knowing that victory is assured through Christ's sacrifice on the cross.
Knowing God's Ways - Part 7
By Walter Beuttler69630:42Knowing GodPSA 32:8ISA 35:1ISA 40:3ISA 43:2ISA 43:19HOS 2:142CO 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the cost of having a real ministry and the price one must pay for it. He mentions that true ministries are not found in God's bargain basement and that one must be willing to endure hardships and challenges. The speaker also discusses how God allures us into the wilderness, referring to a hunger for more of God and a willingness to surrender all. He quotes Isaiah 43:19, which speaks about God doing a new thing and making a way in the wilderness. The sermon concludes with a story about a pastor who experienced the joy of the Lord even in the midst of tragedy.
Jesus Is Victor
By Basilea Schlink64204:35Radio ShowROM 8:371CO 15:572CO 2:14EPH 6:10JAS 4:71PE 5:91JN 5:4In this sermon, Basilia Schlink shares the testimony of a woman whose alcoholic husband was transformed by Jesus' victory. The woman, a cleaning woman, endured years of mistreatment and her husband's addiction without losing faith. She wore a pin with the inscription "Jesus is victor" as a sign of her unwavering belief. After thirteen years, her husband experienced a complete change and asked to follow Jesus with her. This story serves as a reminder of the power of steadfast faith and the ability of Jesus to bring victory over sin and bondage.
The Church: How Jesus Builds It #5 - Ministry to the World
By Bob Hoekstra60454:10MAT 5:13LUK 24:27ACT 8:5ACT 8:272CO 2:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of evangelism and the role of every believer in sharing the gospel. He shares a personal anecdote about a friend with a gift of evangelism who quickly shared the gospel with someone they met. The speaker acknowledges that evangelism may not be everyone's gift, but encourages all believers to participate in the work of evangelism. He then moves on to discuss the ministry of witness, emphasizing the impact of our attitudes and behaviors on the world. The sermon concludes with a reference to Matthew 5:13-16, where Jesus describes believers as the salt of the earth and encourages them to let their light shine before others.
Learning How to Make Progress in Christian Life
By Zac Poonen6011:18:31GEN 3:15MAT 5:3MAT 8:16MAT 11:29MAT 18:4LUK 17:3ROM 8:31ROM 14:17ROM 16:202CO 2:142CO 7:11JN 4:17
This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life that honors God and reflects the character of Jesus Christ. It highlights the need for humility, purity, and compassion towards sinners while being firm against unrepentant sin. The message encourages believers to seek victory over the devil, to cleanse themselves from all filthiness, and to have the aroma of Christ in their lives. It calls for a church where Christ is honored and the devil is defeated, urging individuals to respond to God's call to live a life of holiness and victory.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now, thanks be unto God - His coming dispelled all my fears, and was the cause of the highest satisfaction to my mind; and filled my heart with gratitude to God, who is the Author of all good, and who always causes us to triumph in Christ; not only gives us the victory, but such a victory as involves the total ruin of our enemies; and gives us cause of triumphing in him, through whom we have obtained this victory. A triumph, among the Romans, to which the apostle here alludes, was a public and solemn honor conferred by them on a victorious general, by allowing him a magnificent procession through the city. This was not granted by the senate unless the general had gained a very signal and decisive victory; conquered a province, etc. On such occasions the general was usually clad in a rich purple robe, interwoven with figures of gold, setting forth the grandeur of his achievements; his buskins were beset with pearls, and he wore a crown, which at first was of laurel, but was afterwards of pure gold. In one hand he had a branch of laurel, the emblem of victory; and in the other, his truncheon. He was carried in a magnificent chariot, adorned with ivory and plates of gold, and usually drawn by two white horses. (Other animals were also used: when Pompey triumphed over Africa, his chariot was drawn by elephants; that of Mark Antony, by lions; that of Heliogabalus, by tigers; and that of Aurelius, by deer.) His children either sat at his feet in the chariot, or rode on the chariot horses. To keep him humble amidst these great honors a slave stood at his back, casting out incessant railings, and reproaches; and carefully enumerating all his vices, etc. Musicians led up the procession, and played triumphal pieces in praise of the general; and these were followed by young men, who led the victims which were to be sacrificed on the occasion, with their horns gilded, and their heads and necks adorned with ribbons and garlands. Next followed carts loaded with the spoils taken from the enemy, with their horses, chariots, etc. These were followed by the kings, princes, or generals taken in the war, loaded with chains. Immediately after these came the triumphal chariot, before which, as it passed, the people strewed flowers, and shouted Io, triumphe! The triumphal chariot was followed by the senate; and the procession was closed by the priests and their attendants, with the different sacrificial utensils, and a white ox, which was to be the chief victim. They then passed through the triumphal arch, along the via sacra to the capitol, where the victims were slain. During this time all the temples were opened, and every altar smoked with offerings and incense. The people at Corinth were sufficiently acquainted with the nature of a triumph: about two hundred years before this, Lucius Mummius, the Roman consul, had conquered all Achaia, destroyed Corinth, Thebes, and Chalcis; and, by order of the senate, had a grand triumph, and was surnamed Achaicus. St. Paul had now a triumph (but of a widely different kind) over the same people; his triumph was in Christ, and to Christ he gives all the glory; his sacrifice was that of thanksgiving to his Lord; and the incense offered on the occasion caused the savour of the knowledge of Christ to be manifested in every place. As the smoke of the victims and incense offered on such an occasion would fill the whole city with their perfume, so the odour of the name and doctrine of Christ filled the whole of Corinth and the neighboring regions; and the apostles appeared as triumphing in and through Christ, over devils, idols, superstition, ignorance, and vice, wherever they came.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now--Greek, "But." Though we left Troas disappointed in not meeting Titus there, and in having to leave so soon so wide a door, "thanks be unto God," we were triumphantly blessed in both the good news of you from Titus, and in the victories of the Gospel everywhere in our progress. The cause of triumph cannot be restricted (as ALFORD explains) to the former; for "always," and "in every place," show that the latter also is intended. causeth us to triumph--The Greek, is rather, as in Col 2:15, "triumphs over us": "leadeth us in triumph." Paul regarded himself as a signal trophy of God's victorious power in Christ. His Almighty Conqueror was leading him about, through all the cities of the Greek and Roman world, as an illustrious example of His power at once to subdue and to save. The foe of Christ was now the servant of Christ. As to be led in triumph by man is the most miserable, so to be led in triumph by God is the most glorious, lot that can befall any [TRENCH]. Our only true triumphs are God's triumphs over us. His defeats of us are our only true victories [ALFORD]. The image is taken from the triumphal procession of a victorious general. The additional idea is perhaps included, which distinguishes God's triumph from that of a human general, that the captive is brought into willing obedience (Co2 10:5) to Christ, and so joins in the triumph: God "leads him in triumph" as one not merely triumphed over, but also as one triumphing over God's foes with God (which last will apply to the apostle's triumphant missionary progress under the leading of God). So BENGEL: "Who shows us in triumph, not [merely] as conquered, but as the ministers of His victory. Not only the victory, but the open 'showing' of the victory is marked: for there follows, Who maketh manifest." savour--retaining the image of a triumph. As the approach of the triumphal procession was made known by the odor of incense scattered far and wide by the incense-bearers in the train, so God "makes manifest by us" (His now at once triumphed over and triumphing captives, compare Luk 5:10, "Catch," literally, "Take captive so as to preserve alive") the sweet savor of the knowledge of Christ, the triumphant Conqueror (Col 2:15), everywhere. As the triumph strikes the eyes, so the savor the nostrils; thus every sense feels the power of Christ's Gospel. This manifestation (a word often recurring in his Epistles to the Corinthians, compare Co1 4:5) refutes the Corinthian suspicions of his dishonestly, by reserve, hiding anything from them (Co2 2:17; Co2 4:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now thanks be unto God,.... The apostle having mentioned the door that was opened for him at Troas, to preach the Gospel with success, calls to mind the great and manifold appearances of God for him and his fellow ministers, in blessing their labours to the conversion of many souls; which causes him to break forth into thanksgiving to God, on this account: what he takes notice of, and is thankful to God for is, that he always causeth us to triumph in Christ; not only had done so, but continued to do so: some versions ascribe this act of triumph to God, as his act, reading the passage thus, "now thanks be unto God, who triumphs over us", or "by us in Christ"; who has conquered us by his grace, and made use of us as instruments for the conversion of sinners; and so first triumphed over us, having subdued us to himself, and then over others by us, in whose hearts the arrows of his word have been sharp and powerful: so the word is used for the person's own act of triumph spoken of, Co2 2:15, but here it signifies, as words do in the Hebrew conjugation "Hiphil", which most commonly denotes an effect upon another, or which is caused and produced in another, and is rightly rendered, "which causeth us to triumph"; and refers not to the triumph of faith, common with the apostles to other believers; though this is in Christ, in his righteousness, death, resurrection, ascension, session at God's right hand, and intercession; and is what God causes, and to whom thanks is to be given for it: but this is a triumph peculiar to ministers of the Gospel, who are made to triumph over men and devils, over the world, the reproaches, persecutions, smiles, and flatteries of it; over wicked men, by silencing them, stopping the mouths of gainsayers, refuting false teachers, and preserving the Gospel pure, in spite of all opposition; and by being made useful to the turning of many souls from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God: and this is in Christ: it is owing to the victory he has got; it is by his strength, it is in his name, for his sake, and because of his glory herein concerned: and always; wherever the ministers of Christ are called to labour, and wherever the Gospel is purely and powerfully preached by them, some good is done; and they are made to triumph over hell and earth, over sin, Satan, and the world; and for all this, thanks is due to God; for he it is that causes them to triumph, or they never could; as will easily appear, if we consider what poor weak instruments they themselves are; what opposition is made against them; what wonderful things are done by them; by what means they triumph, by the preaching of the cross, and that in the midst of the greatest pressures and afflictions. Thanks are also given to God, that he maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place; by "his knowledge" is meant, either the knowledge of God, who causes the ministers of the Gospel to triumph; or the knowledge of Christ, in whom they triumph; or rather of both, of the knowledge of God in Christ; and designs the Gospel, which is the means thereof: and which is said to have a "savour" in it, and denotes the acceptableness of it to sensible souls; and the good name, fame, and credit, which Christ has by the faithful ministration of it; and is an allusion to Sol 1:3. Now this, God is said to make manifest; it was hid before, hid in himself, and to the sons of men; it was like a box of ointment shut, but now opened by the preaching of the word, which diffuses a fragrant smell; and therefore he is said to make it manifest "by us": the ministers of the Gospel, who openly, boldly, and faithfully preach it; and "by manifestation of the truth"; spread the savour of it, and that "in every place", where they come; their commission being at large, to go into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:14–7:4 At this point, the story about finding Titus breaks off and will not be resumed until 7:5. Paul digresses to discuss his ministry as an apostle proclaiming the Good News. 2:14 Like captives in a Roman general’s celebration march, Paul was in Christ’s triumphal procession (cp. 1 Cor 4:9; Eph 4:7-11), carrying the marks of willing servitude (see Rom 1:1; Gal 6:17).