Carrying the Fragrance of Christ
Every believer carries a fragrance into the world. Paul describes it in 2 Corinthians 2:14–17 as the aroma of Christ. To those who are being saved, it is the scent of life; to those rejecting the gospel, it is the scent of death. Either way, it is unmistakable — we cannot hide what we truly are.
This fragrance flows from the triumph of Christ. He has conquered sin, death, Satan, and the world, and now leads us in His victory procession. The gospel, like incense in a Roman triumph, fills the air with the reminder of His victory. What an encouragement: no matter what trial we face, we walk behind the conquering King.
But the fragrance also requires credibility. Paul told the Corinthians that they were his letter of recommendation — not written with ink, but by the Spirit on their hearts. In the same way, the clearest evidence of Christ in us is a transformed life. Our marriages, friendships, work ethic, and conduct should testify that we belong to Jesus.
Finally, the fragrance points to glory. Unlike the fading glory of the old covenant, the new covenant transforms us “from glory to glory” as we behold Christ with unveiled faces. This means daily growth into His likeness by the Spirit.
Daily application: Let your life today carry the scent of Christ. Be cleansed by Him, worship Him with a devoted heart, bathe in His Word, and walk in obedience. Others around you may reject the fragrance, but some will be drawn to life through it.
“Walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma” (Ephesians 5:2).