Chapter 2

Notes:

 

    I just want to make mention that the letter written in much "affliction and anguish" is not the letter of 1 Corinthians, but one of the two letters that are not published in the Bible.

 

  • Verse 10b-11    Indeed, what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of Christ, so that we would not be outwitted by Satan, for we are not ignorant of his designs.

     In verses 6-8, Paul is addressing a specific concern within the Corinth church regarding a man who had apparently done wrong, was punished, and now needed forgiveness and love.  

    Since we have been forgiven by Jesus, we also as Christians, must forgive.  When we don't forgive and hold bitterness, anger, or resentment toward another believer, we are allowing Satan to break unity among the church body.  Satan's design is to ruin relationships, love and unity between people and especially between a person and God. 

  • Verse 15    For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing...

    The term "aroma of Christ" refers to the pleasing aroma arising from a sacrifice presented to God, practiced in the old testment.  When someone burned a sacrifice to God, it would often say the aroma was pleasing.  Since Christ is the ultimate sacrifice and  Paul is 'sacrificing' his life in full time ministry for Christ, he is stating that his work presents the aroma of Christ- to all those whom he comes in contact with- believers and unbelievers. 

 

  • 01-21-12

Application:

 

  • Are you harboring resentment, bitterness, anger or unforgiveness against another believer? The man that Paul refers to did something so significant that he was punished for it.  But Paul is still asking the church to forgive, comfort and love the man.  Who has done something against you?  Who do you need to forgive?  Forgiveness is so important to keep unity and be obedient of God's word.  Don't let Satan outwit you. 

 

  • What kind of aroma do you give off? Is it pleasing to God? Is it because of love and sacrifice to Jesus or is it because of sin and rebellion? Remember the fragrance that you present is known to all that are around you- whether it's pleasing, or whether it stinks.  

 

Topic: Chapter 2

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