2 Corinthians 2:15
Verse
Context
Triumph in Christ
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. 16To the one, we are an odor of death and demise; to the other, a fragrance that brings life. And who is qualified for such a task?
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ - The apostle still alludes to the case of a triumph; the conqueror always represented the person of Jupiter; as even the heathens supposed that God alone could give the victory: and as the punishment of death was inflicted on some of the captives, who had often rebelled and broken leagues and covenants; so others were spared, made tributaries, and often became allies. Alluding to this, the apostle says: We are a sweet savour to God - we have fulfilled his will in faithfully proclaiming the Gospel, and fighting against sin. And as he has determined that those who believe shall be saved, and those who believe not shall perish, we are equally acceptable to him though we unsuccessfully preach the Gospel to some who obstinately reject it, and so perish, as we are in preaching to others who believe, and are saved.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The order is in Greek, "For (it is) of Christ (that) we are a sweet savor unto God"; thus, the "for" justifies his previous words (Co2 2:14), "the savor of HIS (Christ's) knowledge." We not only scatter the savor; but "we are the sweet savor" itself (Sol 1:3; compare Joh 1:14, Joh 1:16; Eph 5:2; Jo1 2:27). in them that are saved--rather, "that are being saved . . . that are perishing" (see on Co1 1:18). As the light, though it blinds in darkness the weak, is for all that still light; and honey, though it taste bitter to the sick, is in itself still sweet; so the Gospel is still of a sweet savor, though many perish through unbelief [CHRYSOSTOM, Homilies, 5.467], (Co2 4:3-4, Co2 4:6). As some of the conquered foes led in triumph were put to death when the procession reached the capitol, and to them the smell of the incense was the "savor of death unto death," while to those saved alive, it was the "savor of life," so the Gospel was to the different classes respectively. and in them--in the case of them. "Those being saved" (2Co. 3:1-4:2): "Those that are perishing" (Co2 4:3-5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we are unto God a sweet savour,.... Here a reason is given, why the savour of the knowledge of God in Christ is made manifest by the ministers of the Gospel, because they themselves are a sweet savour; not that they are so in themselves, for they have the same corrupt hearts and natures, and complain of them as other men; but as having the gifts and graces of the Spirit of God, comparable to fragrant and sweet smelling ointments, Sol 1:3, by which they are enabled to preach the savoury doctrines of the Gospel, and to adorn and recommend them by their exemplary lives and conversations: the allusion is to Aaron and the priests under the law, who were anointed with the anointing oil, which was poured upon their heads, ran down upon their beards, and descended to the skirts of their garments, so that they were all over a perfume, a sweet smell and savour; and so are the ministers of the word, being anointed with that, which the other was typical of. They are said to be a sweet savour of Christ, because they have their gifts, grace, and Gospel from him, and he is the subject of their ministry; so that this sweet savour of theirs, is not properly theirs, but his, whose person, blood, righteousness, sacrifice, grace, and the fulness of it, as held forth in the Gospel ministry, are sweet and savoury to believers. Moreover, it is "unto God" they are such a savour, not unto men, mere carnal men, for with them they are the filth of the world, and the offscouring of all things; but they are grateful and well pleasing to the Lord, as their ministrations make for, and show forth his honour and glory: and this they are in them that are saved, who are chosen by God unto salvation, for whom Christ has wrought it out, to whom it is applied by the Spirit of God, who are heirs of it, and are kept unto it, and for it, by the power of God, and shall certainly enjoy it: yea, they are a sweet savour in them that perish, all mankind are, through sin, in a perishing condition: some of them shall never perish; but are, and shall be saved with an everlasting salvation: others will perish in their sins, to which they are abandoned; and what sense the ministers of the Gospel are a savour in these is shown in the following verse.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:15-16 Incense was scattered along the parade route of a victorious Roman general, and it was received in one of two ways. For the captives, who were on their way to the arena and death, it was a dreadful smell of death and doom. For the victors, it was a life-giving perfume. So it is with the lives of those who proclaim the Good News, which either leads to eternal life or seals the fate of the person who rejects it (cp. 1 Cor 1:18).
2 Corinthians 2:15
Triumph in Christ
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. 16To the one, we are an odor of death and demise; to the other, a fragrance that brings life. And who is qualified for such a task?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Christian Leadership) the Aroma of Christ
By Zac Poonen2.6K1:23:02JOB 33:7MAT 6:33LUK 22:40JHN 13:34ACT 1:82CO 2:15COL 4:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of giving words of encouragement to our loved ones. He challenges listeners to reflect on whether they are truly living like Christ and spreading a positive aroma through their actions and words. The speaker encourages believers to be a blessing wherever they go and to speak words that God can use to touch people's hearts. He also highlights the need for Christians to live in such a way that others see Christ in them, even if they never see them again. The speaker criticizes the degradation of the concept of being witnesses for Christ and urges believers to take their walk with God seriously, rather than comparing themselves to other Christians. He warns against the decay and corruption in Christendom and emphasizes the importance of serving others rather than seeking distance and awe like royalty.
Death, and After This, the Judgment
By Rolfe Barnard81854:24ECC 12:7MAT 6:332CO 2:151TH 5:3HEB 9:272PE 3:10REV 20:14In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the certainty of death and the judgment that follows. He mentions significant events in recent history, such as the televised funeral services of President John F. Kennedy and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. These events serve as reminders of the inevitability of death and the need for salvation. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus died because all men must die and face judgment. He urges the audience to turn to Christ for salvation and asks those who have a reasonable hope in Christ to affirm their faith.
The Beauty of God in the Life of a Believer (Ps. 90:17)
By Mike Bickle2355:49The Beauty of GodHumility and SurrenderPSA 27:4PSA 90:17PSA 149:4ISA 61:3MAL 3:16MAT 10:422CO 2:15COL 3:3HEB 2:71PE 3:4Mike Bickle emphasizes the beauty of God and how it is imparted to believers, highlighting that God's beauty is not only to be admired but also shared with His people. He explains that this beauty begins at the moment of salvation and is cultivated through humility and surrender, which may often go unrecognized in this life but will be celebrated in the age to come. Bickle encourages believers to intentionally seek out and recognize the beauty within themselves and others, as it is a reflection of God's grace and love. He reminds us that even the smallest acts of kindness and humility are beautiful in God's eyes and contribute to our eternal significance. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a shift in perspective, urging believers to see their lives through the lens of God's beauty and purpose.
Epistle 231
By George Fox0FaithfulnessTrials of FaithJER 48:28AMO 5:24MAT 18:20JHN 4:24ROM 1:162CO 2:15PHP 1:51TI 6:191PE 1:7REV 21:17George Fox emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God, urging believers to live in His truth and righteousness, which will serve as a blessing in their generation. He highlights the trials of faith and worship, contrasting those who gather in the name of Jesus with those who are rooted in the fall of Adam. Fox encourages the faithful to dwell in the security of Christ, the second Adam, and to be valiant for the truth, assuring them of their eternal inheritance in the kingdom of God. He reminds them to remain steadfast and not be swayed by worldly distractions, as they are called to reign with Christ and be a light in the darkness. Ultimately, he calls for a life lived in the spirit and truth, celebrating the mysteries revealed to them by God.
Epistle 164
By George Fox0Community in ChristFaith and WorshipMAT 18:202CO 2:15COL 1:18HEB 2:14HEB 10:241JN 3:8George Fox emphasizes the importance of gathering in the power of the Lord, encouraging believers to meet regularly and provoke one another to love and good works. He stresses that true edification, life, and peace come from being united in Christ, who is the head of the church and the source of eternal life. Fox urges the community to be established in their faith, demonstrating a steadfastness that reflects God's glory and serves as a blessing to others. He reassures them that their worship and truth are already found in Christ, who overcomes all that causes suffering. Ultimately, he calls for a deep connection with the Lord, who reigns above all and provides life everlasting.
Divine Acceptance
By Octavius Winslow0God's AcceptanceThe Sweet Savor of OfferingsPSA 141:2EZK 20:41ROM 5:12CO 2:15EPH 1:6PHP 4:18COL 3:17HEB 11:41PE 2:51JN 1:7Octavius Winslow emphasizes the profound truth of God's acceptance of the believing sinner, highlighting that our personal acceptance in Christ is essential before our offerings can be accepted. He contrasts the acceptance of Abel's offering with Cain's, illustrating that it is our relationship with Christ that grants value to our sacrifices. Winslow encourages believers to approach God with their prayers, praises, and offerings, reminding them that these are sweet savors to God when presented through the merits of Jesus. He calls for a deeper understanding of this acceptance, which brings peace and joy to the believer's heart. Ultimately, he reassures that God delights in the offerings of those who are accepted in the Beloved.
Let My Prayer Be Set Forth Before You as Incense
By Octavius Winslow0The Power of PrayerThe Heart of Worship1SA 16:7PSA 141:2MAT 6:6LUK 1:10ROM 8:262CO 2:15PHP 4:6HEB 4:16JAS 5:16REV 5:8Octavius Winslow emphasizes the profound nature of prayer as a sacred act of drawing near to God, likening it to the sweet incense offered at the altar. He explains that true prayer arises from a heart transformed by grace, where the believer's struggles and sincerity are known and cherished by God. Winslow highlights that even the simplest expressions of prayer, such as a sigh or a tear, are fragrant offerings to the Lord, who sees beyond outward appearances to the heart's true condition. The sermon encourages believers to recognize the beauty and value of their prayers, as they are accepted by God with delight. Ultimately, it is a reminder of the intimate relationship between the believer and God, where prayer becomes a means of communion and connection.
Sitting at the Table With King Jesus
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual GrowthFellowship with ChristSNG 1:12MAL 4:2MAT 5:16JHN 15:52CO 2:15GAL 5:22EPH 2:6PHP 1:11COL 1:101PE 2:9Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound impact of being in the presence of King Jesus, illustrating that His companionship enhances our spiritual graces, likened to a perfume that spreads its fragrance. He explains that when we sit at the table with Christ, we experience deep friendship and fellowship, which invigorates our faith and other virtues. Just as sunlight causes flowers to bloom, the presence of Christ brings our graces to life, allowing them to flourish and be fully realized.
Set "For a Sign"
By T. Austin-Sparks0ConsecrationBeing a Sign for GodEZK 12:6ACT 1:81CO 4:11CO 4:92CO 2:152CO 3:2EPH 3:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that true consecration to God involves becoming a sign of His wisdom and power to the world. He illustrates that just as Moses was a sign to the Israelites, believers today are called to embody God's message and purpose, even at great personal cost. The sermon challenges listeners to embrace their role as signs, reflecting God's glory and truth in a world that often ridicules such commitment. Sparks encourages a deep, personal surrender to God, suggesting that through this, believers can reveal His nature to both humanity and the spiritual realm. Ultimately, he calls for a fresh act of abandonment to God, promising that such a commitment will lead to a profound revelation of His presence.
Behold, There Is in This City a Man of God
By F.B. Meyer0Impact of HolinessGodlinessPSA 37:23PRO 10:9MAT 5:162CO 2:15GAL 5:22EPH 5:8COL 3:121TH 5:22HEB 12:141PE 2:9F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound impact of a godly life on the community, reflecting on the legacy of holiness that can transform neighborhoods, as exemplified by the life of Samuel. He encourages believers to strive for a character that embodies trustworthiness and godliness, which in turn inspires confidence and respect from others. Meyer calls for Christians to cultivate a deep relationship with God, allowing His beauty and truth to shine through their lives, thus becoming 'men and women of God' who leave a lasting fragrance of holiness wherever they go.
His Cheeks Are as a Bed of Spices,
By C.H. Spurgeon0The Beauty of ChristFellowship with JesusPSA 16:11PSA 42:1SNG 4:14ISA 53:3MAT 11:28JHN 14:27JHN 15:4ROM 5:82CO 2:15PHP 4:7C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the beauty and fragrance of Jesus, likening His cheeks to a bed of spices that bring joy and refreshment to the soul. He emphasizes the significance of Christ's suffering and the love expressed through His pain, which makes His presence a source of delight and comfort. Spurgeon encourages believers to seek a deep, abiding fellowship with Jesus, finding in Him a continuous spring of grace and joy. The imagery of flowers and the changing seasons serves to illustrate the richness of spiritual life found in Christ. Ultimately, he expresses a longing to reciprocate the love of Jesus with heartfelt devotion.
Marked by Christly Fragrance
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual FragrancePresence of GodPSA 45:8SNG 1:3JHN 12:32CO 2:152CO 3:18EPH 5:2PHP 4:18COL 3:16HEB 13:151PE 2:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes the transformative power of experiencing the presence of Christ, likening it to the exquisite fragrance of myrrh and aloes. He reflects on how the scent of Christ's garments can spoil us for anything less, urging believers to seek this divine fragrance in their lives. Tozer recalls his early church experiences, where the presence of God was palpable among the congregation, particularly through the older saints whose lives radiated Christ's essence. He encourages the faithful to cultivate a longing for this spiritual aroma, which enriches their relationship with God and one another.
The Palace He Left
By J. Wilbur Chapman0PSA 45:8ISA 53:3ISA 53:5MRK 2:17JHN 3:16JHN 9:6JHN 10:9JHN 14:62CO 2:15COL 1:19J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the beauty of the character of Jesus Christ as depicted in the Old Testament, emphasizing His sacrifice and the blessings of His incarnation. The sermon explores the imagery of the 'Ivory Palaces' from which Jesus came to be our Savior, contrasting the splendor of earthly palaces with the magnificence of His origin. It delves into the tenderness and pathos of Christ's life, from His bitter experiences to His healing power as the great physician, inviting listeners to surrender to His love and be transformed by His sweetness.
1 Timothy 1:5-7
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 38:5MAT 18:19MAT 24:12JHN 3:20ROM 10:4ROM 13:31CO 15:252CO 2:15PHP 4:41TI 1:5John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of genuine love, faith, and a pure heart in following God's commandments, warning against the dangers of vain pursuits and false teachings driven by envy and a desire for power. He highlights the significance of using the law lawfully, directing believers to Christ for true fulfillment and righteousness. Chrysostom urges the congregation to seek the eternal glory of God's Gospel, which surpasses worldly pleasures and possessions, and to clothe themselves with virtues and spiritual fragrance that bring honor and joy in this life and the next.
Our Daily Homily - 2 Corinthians
By F.B. Meyer0Strength in WeaknessComfort in Affliction2CO 1:42CO 2:152CO 3:182CO 4:182CO 5:182CO 6:82CO 7:12CO 8:72CO 9:102CO 12:10F.B. Meyer emphasizes the theme of comfort in affliction as he reflects on 2 Corinthians, highlighting how God comforts us in our tribulations so that we can extend that comfort to others. He encourages believers to view their trials as opportunities for growth and to keep a record of God's mercies during difficult times. Meyer illustrates the transformative power of suffering, suggesting that through our weaknesses, God's strength is made perfect. He also discusses the importance of living a life that reflects Christ, becoming a sweet aroma to God and others. Ultimately, he calls for a deep communion with the Holy Spirit, which enables believers to navigate life's challenges with grace and purpose.
Epistle 176
By George Fox0PRO 24:29EZK 22:29ROM 1:162CO 2:15GAL 5:131TI 4:12JAS 5:191PE 1:231JN 3:8REV 6:13George Fox emphasizes the importance of ministers being examples in wisdom, patience, righteousness, holiness, and godliness, urging them to avoid vain, youthful ways and quarrels over outward things that lead them away from the truth of God. He warns against ministers changing from the truth they first preached, as it confuses and misleads people, advocating for a steadfast commitment to the unchanging word and gospel of God. Fox encourages ministers to abide in the everlasting word that keeps them humble and free from worldly influences, walking in purity and wisdom to be a good example to others.
Spices for Christ's Grave
By J.R. Miller0WorshipService to ChristPSA 141:2MAT 25:40MRK 16:1ROM 12:12CO 2:15PHP 4:18COL 3:23HEB 13:151PE 2:5REV 5:8J.R. Miller reflects on the poignant moment when Mary Magdalene and other women prepared spices for Jesus' body after His crucifixion, highlighting their deep love and devotion despite their despair. He emphasizes that their act of honoring the dead Christ serves as a powerful reminder of the love we should show to the living Christ, who is now resurrected and alive. Miller encourages believers to bring their heartfelt worship, service, and endurance in suffering as fragrant offerings to honor Christ, just as the women did in their sorrow. He illustrates that true worship and acts of love, even in trials, are precious to God and should be a continuous part of a Christian's life. Ultimately, he calls for a life of self-sacrifice and service, reflecting the love of Christ in all circumstances.
Holiness to See God
By Glenn Meldrum02KI 15:1ISA 6:1MAT 11:28JHN 3:16JHN 3:192CO 2:151PE 1:16REV 1:17Glenn Meldrum preaches on the awe-inspiring encounters of the Almighty with humanity, emphasizing the need for divine revelations to transform us. Using Isaiah's vision of the Lord, he delves into nine essential points regarding revival, highlighting the importance of humility, preparation, worship, conviction of sin, and the call to be sent by God. The sermon underscores the revolutionary nature of revival, where transformed individuals become agents of change through holiness and intimate relationship with Christ.
Xxxviii. to Mr William Dalgleish
By Samuel Rutherford0ROM 8:371CO 3:122CO 2:15PHP 1:61PE 1:6Samuel Rutherford, in a heartfelt letter, expresses his deep joy in seeing the growth of grace and zeal in God among his fellow believers despite his own trials and sufferings. He finds solace in Christ as a kind fellow prisoner, welcoming the cross that visits him, believing in a triumphant future beyond his current struggles. Rutherford wrestles with doubts and fears, yet remains steadfast in his faith, desiring to glorify Christ even in the midst of uncertainty and loss. He encourages his brother to stand firm in serving Christ with a pure conscience, emphasizing the importance of sanctification to withstand trials.
Fragrance of the Rose of Sharon
By G. Campbell Morgan0Presence of ChristHolinessMAT 5:162CO 2:15GAL 5:22G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes that true holiness is not merely spoken of but is evident in a person's life through their demeanor and actions. He illustrates this with a story about a vase that retains the fragrance of roses, suggesting that when Christ is within us, His presence should permeate our lives, making holiness apparent without the need for words. Morgan cautions against using the absence of verbal proclamation as a measure of holiness, asserting that the true essence of holiness is a beautiful spirit that naturally radiates from within.
The Sweet Savor
By Henry Law0GEN 8:21PSA 45:7JHN 3:16ROM 3:252CO 2:15EPH 5:2HEB 9:141PE 2:241JN 1:7REV 5:12Henry Law preaches about the sweet savor of Christ, emphasizing how the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross is the key to gaining acceptance and favor with God. The sermon highlights how the death of Jesus has an irresistible power with God, bringing joy and redemption to all who believe. It delves into how the attributes of God, such as Justice, Truth, Holiness, and Mercy, find satisfaction and delight in the sacrifice of Jesus, leading to the assurance of pardon and grace for believers.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ - The apostle still alludes to the case of a triumph; the conqueror always represented the person of Jupiter; as even the heathens supposed that God alone could give the victory: and as the punishment of death was inflicted on some of the captives, who had often rebelled and broken leagues and covenants; so others were spared, made tributaries, and often became allies. Alluding to this, the apostle says: We are a sweet savour to God - we have fulfilled his will in faithfully proclaiming the Gospel, and fighting against sin. And as he has determined that those who believe shall be saved, and those who believe not shall perish, we are equally acceptable to him though we unsuccessfully preach the Gospel to some who obstinately reject it, and so perish, as we are in preaching to others who believe, and are saved.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The order is in Greek, "For (it is) of Christ (that) we are a sweet savor unto God"; thus, the "for" justifies his previous words (Co2 2:14), "the savor of HIS (Christ's) knowledge." We not only scatter the savor; but "we are the sweet savor" itself (Sol 1:3; compare Joh 1:14, Joh 1:16; Eph 5:2; Jo1 2:27). in them that are saved--rather, "that are being saved . . . that are perishing" (see on Co1 1:18). As the light, though it blinds in darkness the weak, is for all that still light; and honey, though it taste bitter to the sick, is in itself still sweet; so the Gospel is still of a sweet savor, though many perish through unbelief [CHRYSOSTOM, Homilies, 5.467], (Co2 4:3-4, Co2 4:6). As some of the conquered foes led in triumph were put to death when the procession reached the capitol, and to them the smell of the incense was the "savor of death unto death," while to those saved alive, it was the "savor of life," so the Gospel was to the different classes respectively. and in them--in the case of them. "Those being saved" (2Co. 3:1-4:2): "Those that are perishing" (Co2 4:3-5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we are unto God a sweet savour,.... Here a reason is given, why the savour of the knowledge of God in Christ is made manifest by the ministers of the Gospel, because they themselves are a sweet savour; not that they are so in themselves, for they have the same corrupt hearts and natures, and complain of them as other men; but as having the gifts and graces of the Spirit of God, comparable to fragrant and sweet smelling ointments, Sol 1:3, by which they are enabled to preach the savoury doctrines of the Gospel, and to adorn and recommend them by their exemplary lives and conversations: the allusion is to Aaron and the priests under the law, who were anointed with the anointing oil, which was poured upon their heads, ran down upon their beards, and descended to the skirts of their garments, so that they were all over a perfume, a sweet smell and savour; and so are the ministers of the word, being anointed with that, which the other was typical of. They are said to be a sweet savour of Christ, because they have their gifts, grace, and Gospel from him, and he is the subject of their ministry; so that this sweet savour of theirs, is not properly theirs, but his, whose person, blood, righteousness, sacrifice, grace, and the fulness of it, as held forth in the Gospel ministry, are sweet and savoury to believers. Moreover, it is "unto God" they are such a savour, not unto men, mere carnal men, for with them they are the filth of the world, and the offscouring of all things; but they are grateful and well pleasing to the Lord, as their ministrations make for, and show forth his honour and glory: and this they are in them that are saved, who are chosen by God unto salvation, for whom Christ has wrought it out, to whom it is applied by the Spirit of God, who are heirs of it, and are kept unto it, and for it, by the power of God, and shall certainly enjoy it: yea, they are a sweet savour in them that perish, all mankind are, through sin, in a perishing condition: some of them shall never perish; but are, and shall be saved with an everlasting salvation: others will perish in their sins, to which they are abandoned; and what sense the ministers of the Gospel are a savour in these is shown in the following verse.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:15-16 Incense was scattered along the parade route of a victorious Roman general, and it was received in one of two ways. For the captives, who were on their way to the arena and death, it was a dreadful smell of death and doom. For the victors, it was a life-giving perfume. So it is with the lives of those who proclaim the Good News, which either leads to eternal life or seals the fate of the person who rejects it (cp. 1 Cor 1:18).