What a tremendous picture of the Christian life! Jesus leads us through life like a “triumphal procession” (v14). We are joyously traveling with Jesus in his parade-like caravan. This caravan is “triumphal” meaning He has conquered. We are victors.
Through our victorious lives there comes a sweet fragrance that fills the air. As we submit, obey, follow, and love Jesus we find victory and joy and happiness in life. This type of life is to be the fragrance of life. Our lives should be lived in such a way that others would be attracted to the abundant life that each of us has found.
Sadly, in a way, this victorious life will be the fragrance of death for those who hate Jesus. Our only hope is that those who smell our fragrance will smell the futile stench of a live opposed to Jesus and throw themselves into his procession.
Paul notes that he is not like other “peddlers of God’s word” (v17). He is different because he is authentic; he is not selling something for his own material gain. The aroma is sincere in Paul’s life, Paul has been chosen by God to be a missionary, and he speaks through the power of Jesus. This is how Paul is different and more authentic and how he is able to give off a life giving fragrance.
What do other’s smell about your life? Is it Jesus?
