Text : II Corinthians 2:14-17

Introduction.

Paul's goal when he wrote II Corinthians: Defend his ministry.
Let's see II Corinthians 11:23-27. He reaches the highest point of his defense.
II Corinthians 2:17 . "Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit."
Let's start from Paul's expression; "who leads us in triumphal precession in Christ." verse 14
He uses the image of a Roman army returning, victorious, from the battle field.
The Roman General, who had led the battle, was welcome with homage.
There were certain requirements in order to pay the homage.

1. The General was supposed to have fought at the front position.
2. The campaign needed to be complete.
3. There should be peace in the region .
4. At least 5 thousand dead enemies.
5. A great extension of territory should be added to the Roman Empire.
6. The victory should have been over a foreign enemy.

How the procession used to take place when arriving in Rome:

01. The Roman public employees would go at the front.
02. Following there were the musicians who played the trumpets.
03. Next, a trophy brought from the enemy ground was exhibited.
04. A white bull that would be sacrificed to celebrate.
05. A group of captured prisoners, all with their hands tied.
06. The high priests with incense trays , burning Perfume.
07. The troops Commandant General , in a carriage pulled by 4 horses

He wore a red tunic with golden palms and stars.
He had a scepter in his hands.
Next, there was a carriage bringing the General's family.

09. And finally, all the soldiers, shouting : WE HAVE TRIUMPHED!

The meaning of the perfume coming from the high priests' incense trays:

1. To the prisoners, the smell of execution, of death.
2. To the General and his soldiers, the smell of victory, of life.

Paul sees Christ triumphantly marching around the world.
He is the great Commandant in the battle against Satan.
His work was complete, when He went to the cross and then resurrected.
He brings the true peace, which the human heart is so in need of.
He defeated death.
He assures us of Heaven , the most wonderful place ever.
He won over the enemy of our souls.
What place will you take in Christ's triumphal procession?