Preached at AM Service 08 June 2025
As we come to this portion of Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, we find ourselves drawn into a vivid picture of ministry—its struggles, its triumphs, and its eternal significance. Paul, the faithful apostle, is remarkably transparent as he recounts a challenging time in his ministry. While ministering in Troas, Paul found that, even though God had clearly opened a door for effective gospel proclamation, he was deeply unsettled because he could not find his dear brother Titus there. This troubled spirit ultimately led Paul to leave Troas prematurely, journeying onward into Macedonia.
Paul’s experience resonates deeply with us today, doesn’t it? Each of us, in our various callings, whether in formal ministry roles or as believers faithfully witnessing in daily life, faces moments of uncertainty, disappointment, and even discouragement. And so, a crucial question arises for all believers who desire to remain faithful: How can we serve Christ faithfully amid struggles and opposition? When ministry brings setbacks or even outright rejection, when the gospel we proclaim seems to yield little visible fruit, how do we remain encouraged and faithful?
The answer Paul gives us is beautifully clear and profoundly encouraging. It is this: Christ Himself enables believers to spread His fragrance through a sincere and triumphant gospel ministry. Our sufficiency and our victory come not from ourselves but from Christ, who triumphantly leads us and makes us His pleasing aroma in the world.