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We are to be a true reflection of Christ. In verse 15 Paul talks about being the aroma of Christ, For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. We should be the sweet aroma of Christ, not the stench of what He is not. It really does matter how we reflect what Christ has done for us and how He works through us.
Verses 14-15 have been my life verses, for lack of a better term. I was reading one day and God hit me over the head with them a ever since they have been my motto. So i just want to share the Message and NIV versions. From the Message:
14-16 In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation—an aroma redolent with life.
NIV :
But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 15 For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.
Some important points here. God does the leading and it is as a triumphant procession. Doesn’t that make you feel secure? And as you pointed out, Dino, we are a pleasing aroma. Simply by walking with the lord we are a fragrance to those around us who are open to it. Notice Paul says that there are some who will find us stinky. He doesn’t say to make them like our smell. He doesn’t even address that. He just talks about walking with God and allowing that fragrance to waft around for those who like it. It’s such a beautiful picture. I absolutely love it. So peaceful. So lacking in all anxiety. And so allowing God to be God and us to be us. Perhaps another little lesson in boundaries? Hmmmm…hadn’t thought of that before.