Smelling of Christ 2 Corinthians 2:12-3:6
Feb 24, 2016
Smelling of Christ2 Corinthians 2:12-3:6
Context
• Paul’s most personal letter• Christian ministry is a key theme
Context
• Paul’s most personal letter• Christian ministry is a key theme• Concern for the church – “no peace of mind”
1. The calling of Christian ministry
• Being led in triumph – we’re on parade!
1. The calling of Christian ministry
• Being led in triumph – we’re on parade!• Smelling of Christ will mean different things to
different people
– Division not peace (Luke 12:51)– Life and death (Deut 30:19)– Being salt & light (Matthew 5:13-16)
2. The conduct of Christian ministry
• Peddlers of the Gospel– Some dodgy dealing!
• Paul refused to take moneyfrom the Corinthians
• Three pieces of advice– Beware ministry with a price tag– Watch out for excessive focus on the minister– When you speak, speak as if before God not men
3. The credentials of Christian ministry
• “Letters of recommendation”• Who is your letter?
• We’re all called to minister• Nothing qualifies us for ministry…
… but God!
Two big challenges…
Who is your letter?
What do you smell of?