◄ 2 Corinthians 2 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Reaffirm Your Love 1So I made up my mind not to make another painful visit to you. 2For if I grieve you, who is left to cheer me but those whom I have grieved? 3I wrote as I did so that on my arrival I would not be grieved by those who ought to make me rejoice. I had confidence in all of you, that you would share my joy. 4For through many tears I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart, not to grieve you but to let you know how much I love you. 5Now if anyone has caused grief, he has not grieved me but all of you—to some degree, not to overstate it. 6The punishment imposed on him by the majority is sufficient for him. 7So instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. 8Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him. 9My purpose in writing you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything. 10If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And if I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven it in the presence of Christ for your sake, 11in order that Satan should not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. Triumph in Christ 12Now when I went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and a door stood open for me in the Lord, 13I had no peace in my spirit, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said goodbye to them and went on to Macedonia. 14But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him. 15For we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. 16To the one we are an odor that brings death, to the other a fragrance that brings life.a And who is qualified for such a task? 17For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God. Footnotes: 16 a Literally To the one, indeed, an aroma from death to death; but to the other, an aroma from life to life. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Corinthians 2 Summary Triumph in Christ Verses 1–4 – Choosing Tears on Paper Over Tears in Person Paul decides against another painful visit. Instead he writes a heartfelt, tear-filled letter, hoping that the Corinthians will respond so that the next face-to-face meeting can be joyful instead of sorrowful. Verses 5–11 – Restoring the One Who Had Sinned The one who caused grief has received adequate discipline from the church. Now the believers must forgive, comfort, and reaffirm love lest the man be overwhelmed and lest Satan exploit the situation. Verses 12–13 – A Door Opened, Yet a Heart Unsettled In Troas God opens a door for the gospel, but Paul, distressed over not finding Titus and the latest news from Corinth, moves on to Macedonia. Verses 14–17 – Carried in Christ’s Victory Parade Paul breaks into thanksgiving: God always leads him in Christ’s triumphal procession and spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ everywhere. To some that aroma signals life; to others, death. Unlike many, Paul does not peddle God’s word but speaks it with sincerity. In 2 Corinthians 2, Paul addresses the pain caused in the Corinthian community and calls for forgiveness and comfort for the individual who caused it. He also shares his own feelings of anxiety and relief, and he ends by discussing the profound and contrasting impacts of his ministry. Historical Setting of Paul and Corinth • Paul founded the church around AD 50 (Acts 18). • After writing 1 Corinthians, he made a “painful visit” (2 Corinthians 2:1) when the church had sided with a prominent offender against him. • Returning to Ephesus, Paul wrote a “severe letter” (now lost) carried by Titus (2 Corinthians 7:8). 2 Corinthians is written when Paul hears Titus’s report that most of the church has repented (7:6-16), but some tension remains. • This background explains Paul’s mix of relief, affection, and caution throughout chapter 2. Paul’s Change of Travel Plans 1 Cor 16:5-7 outlined an extended Corinthian stay, but conflict forced revisions. By choosing a letter over another visit, Paul models: 1. Sensitivity—he refuses to heap sorrow on an already hurting church (2:3). 2. Transparency—he writes “out of much distress and anguish of heart, and with many tears” (2 Corinthians 2:4), showing leaders may grieve deeply. 3. Confidence—he expects them to share his joy once matters are resolved (v. 3). Restorative Discipline and Forgiveness • “Punishment by the majority” (2:6) echoes the earlier instruction to remove the immoral man (1 Corinthians 5:1-5). The goal was never humiliation but restoration. • “Forgive and comfort him” (2:7) guards against excessive sorrow. Discipline without a clear path back breeds despair. • “Reaffirm your love” (2:8) means public, verbal, and practical acceptance. Galatians 6:1—“restore him gently”—mirrors the same principle. • Paul models forgiveness: “What I have forgiven…I have forgiven in the presence of Christ for your sake” (2:10). Satan’s Schemes and Believers’ Awareness • “Lest Satan should outwit us” (2:11) reminds that the enemy’s plans include both unchecked sin and unrelenting shame. • Cross-references: – 1 Peter 5:8 warns of Satan as a prowling lion. – Ephesians 4:26-27 links unresolved anger to giving him a foothold. • Practical insight: churches that discipline must also restore; otherwise the devil gains ground. First-Century Discipline Practices • Public rebuke before the congregation (1 Timothy 5:20). • Withholding table fellowship, including the Lord’s Supper. • Removal from leadership or service roles. Archaeological finds from Corinth’s bema (judgment seat) illustrate the public nature of communal decisions, matching the communal aspect of discipline. Troas and Macedonia: Archaeological Notes • Troas (modern Dalyan, Turkey) was a busy port on the Aegean. Excavations reveal broad paved streets and a large harbor basin, aligning with Luke’s travel log in Acts 16:8 and 20:5-12. • An “open door” (2 Corinthians 2:12) likely included receptive synagogue contacts and Gentile interest. A new Turkish museum displays Christian inscriptions referencing early gatherings. • From Troas, Paul crossed to Macedonia. Philippi’s forum and prison excavations (Acts 16) attest to the vigorous ministry environment where he awaited Titus. Roman Triumph Imagery and the Gospel 2 Cor 2:14—“God…always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ.” • In a Roman triumph the conquering general paraded captives, incense bearers, and trophies through city streets. • Paul pictures himself not as the general but as a captive being led, highlighting Christ’s victory, not his own. • Incense carriers spread aroma; likewise the gospel spreads the “fragrance of the knowledge of Him.” • Colossians 2:15 presents the same motif: Christ “disarmed the powers…triumphing over them by the cross.” Fragrance Metaphor Across Scripture • Old Testament sacrifices produced a “pleasing aroma” to God (Leviticus 1:9, 13). • Song of Songs celebrates fragrance as attractive and intimate (1:3). • Believers’ prayers rise like incense (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3-4). • In Christ the metaphor turns missional: lives transformed by the gospel “smell” like Christ, either inviting or indicting listeners (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). Integrity in Ministry vs. Peddling the Word 2 Cor 2:17—“For we are not like so many, who peddle the word of God for profit.” Characteristics of sincere ministry: • From God—grounded in revelation, not opinion. • Before God—lived in conscious accountability. • In Christ—centered on His person and work. Phil 1:15-18 notes some preached from selfish motives, yet Paul rejoices that Christ is proclaimed; still, sincerity remains the standard. Practical Lessons for Today • Leaders can show emotion without losing authority. • Church discipline must be corrective and loving, never punitive alone. • Forgiveness protects individuals and the whole body from bitterness (Hebrews 12:15). • Open doors for ministry should be weighed alongside pastoral concerns; people matter more than opportunities. • Believers carry the gospel fragrance everywhere—home, work, online. • Authenticity is the best safeguard against “peddling” spiritual truth. Connections to Other Passages • Matthew 18:15-17 parallels the steps of confrontation and restoration. • Luke 15:20—father’s embrace of the prodigal echoes “reaffirm your love.” • Romans 8:37—believers share Christ’s victory, harmonizing with the triumph procession. • Ephesians 5:2—“Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering” ties aroma to sacrificial love. • Hebrews 13:18—“conduct…honorable in every way” connects transparency and integrity in ministry. Summary Takeaway 2 Corinthians 2 reveals Paul’s heart: tender yet firm, disciplined yet forgiving, anguished yet triumphant. The chapter calls every church to practice loving correction, every believer to spread Christ’s fragrance, and every servant to minister with transparent sincerity before God. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 6:14-15 Jesus teaches about the necessity of forgiving others as we have been forgiven by God. Ephesians 4:32 Paul encourages believers to be kind and compassionate, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave us. Colossians 3:13 The call to bear with each other and forgive grievances, mirroring the forgiveness we have received. Romans 12:18 The exhortation to live at peace with everyone, as far as it depends on us. Teaching Points Paul's Painful Visit and Letter Paul references a previous painful visit and letter, emphasizing the importance of addressing sin and conflict within the church (2 Corinthians 2:1-4). Forgiveness and Comfort Paul urges the Corinthians to forgive and comfort the individual who caused grief, highlighting the necessity of restoring a repentant sinner (2 Corinthians 2:5-8). Satan's Schemes Paul warns against being outwitted by Satan, who seeks to exploit unforgiveness and division within the church (2 Corinthians 2:10-11). Triumphal Procession in Christ Paul describes believers as part of Christ's triumphal procession, spreading the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere (2 Corinthians 2:14). Aroma of Christ The message of the Gospel is a fragrance of life to those being saved and a fragrance of death to those perishing (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). Practical Applications Practice Forgiveness Actively seek to forgive those who have wronged you, understanding that forgiveness is a command and a pathway to healing. Encourage Restoration When someone repents, be quick to restore and comfort them, fostering unity and love within the community. Be Aware of Spiritual Warfare Recognize that unforgiveness can be a tool of the enemy to create division and strife. Live as a Fragrance of Christ Strive to live in a way that reflects the love and grace of Christ, impacting those around you with the Gospel. People 1. Paul The author of the letter, an apostle of Jesus Christ. He writes to the Corinthians with a heart of love and concern, addressing issues within the church. In the original Greek, his name is Παῦλος (Paulos). 2. The Corinthians The recipients of the letter, members of the church in Corinth. Paul expresses his deep care for them and his desire for their spiritual well-being. 3. The Offender An unnamed individual who had caused grief, likely the same person mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5 who was involved in a serious moral failing. Paul discusses the need for forgiveness and restoration for this person. 4. The Majority The group within the Corinthian church who had taken action against the offender. Paul acknowledges their role in disciplining the individual and encourages them to forgive and comfort him. 5. Satan Mentioned as the adversary who seeks to take advantage of situations like the one involving the offender. Paul warns the Corinthians to be aware of Satan's schemes. In Greek, Satan is Σατανᾶς (Satanas). 6. Titus Although not directly mentioned in this chapter, Titus is implied as the one Paul was expecting to meet in Troas to receive news about the Corinthians (see 2 Corinthians 7:6-7 for context). Places 1. Corinth While not explicitly mentioned in this chapter, Corinth is the primary audience of the letter. Paul is addressing the church in Corinth, a major city in ancient Greece known for its commerce and diverse population. The letter is part of Paul's ongoing communication with the Corinthian believers. 2. Troas In 2 Corinthians 2:12, Paul mentions, "Now when I went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and a door stood open for me in the Lord." Troas was an ancient city located in what is now modern-day Turkey. It was a significant port city and a place where Paul had opportunities to spread the gospel. 3. Macedonia In 2 Corinthians 2:13, Paul states, "I still had no peace of mind because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said goodbye to them and went on to Macedonia." Macedonia was a region in the northern part of Greece. It was an important area for early Christian missionary work, and Paul had established several churches there. Events 1. Paul's Decision to Delay His Visit Paul explains his decision not to visit the Corinthians again in sorrow. He writes, "So I made up my mind that I would not make another painful visit to you" (2 Corinthians 2:1). The Greek word for "painful" (λυπὴν, lypēn) indicates distress or grief, highlighting Paul's concern for the emotional impact of his visit. 2. Purpose of Writing Paul states that he wrote to them instead, to avoid causing them sorrow and to express his love. He says, "For if I grieve you, who is left to cheer me but those whom I have grieved?" (2 Corinthians 2:2). The Greek root for "grieve" (λυπέω, lypeō) emphasizes the emotional burden Paul wishes to avoid imposing. 3. Expression of Love and Concern Paul emphasizes his deep love and concern for the Corinthians, writing, "I wrote as I did, so that when I came I would not be distressed by those who should have made me rejoice" (2 Corinthians 2:3). The Greek word for "distressed" (λυπὴν, lypēn) again underscores the emotional aspect of his relationship with them. 4. Forgiveness for the Offender Paul urges the Corinthians to forgive and comfort the individual who caused grief, stating, "Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow" (2 Corinthians 2:7). The Greek term for "forgive" (χαρίζομαι, charizomai) conveys the idea of graciously pardoning. 5. Reaffirmation of Love Paul encourages the Corinthians to reaffirm their love for the repentant offender, saying, "I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him" (2 Corinthians 2:8). The Greek word for "reaffirm" (κυρόω, kyroō) suggests a formal confirmation or validation of their love. 6. Paul's Authority and Forgiveness Paul speaks of his own authority to forgive, writing, "If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And if I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven it in the presence of Christ for your sake" (2 Corinthians 2:10). The Greek phrase "in the presence of Christ" (ἐν προσώπῳ Χριστοῦ, en prosōpō Christou) indicates acting with Christ's authority and approval. 7. Avoiding Satan's Schemes Paul warns against being outwitted by Satan, stating, "in order that Satan should not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes" (2 Corinthians 2:11). The Greek word for "schemes" (νοήματα, noēmata) refers to thoughts or plans, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance. 8. Paul's Anxiety in Troas Paul recounts his experience in Troas, where he found an open door for the gospel but was anxious because he did not find Titus. He writes, "I still had no peace of mind because I did not find my brother Titus there" (2 Corinthians 2:13). The Greek term for "peace of mind" (ἀνάπαυσιν, anapausin) indicates rest or relief, which Paul lacked. 9. Triumphal Procession in Christ Paul describes his ministry as a triumphal procession led by Christ, saying, "But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him" (2 Corinthians 2:14). The Greek word for "triumphantly" (θριαμβεύοντι, thriambeuonti) evokes the image of a victorious parade. 10. Aroma of Christ Paul speaks of being the "aroma of Christ" to both those being saved and those perishing, stating, "For we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing" (2 Corinthians 2:15). The Greek term for "aroma" (ὀσμή, osmē) signifies a fragrance that pleases God. 11. Sincerity in Ministry Paul concludes by affirming the sincerity of his ministry, contrasting it with those who peddle the word of God for profit. He writes, "Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God" (2 Corinthians 2:17). The Greek word for "sincerity" (εἰλικρίνεια, eilikrineia) denotes purity and genuineness. Lessons from 2 Corinthians 2 1. The Power of Forgiveness In 2 Corinthians 2:7, Paul emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, urging believers to "forgive and comfort him, so he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow." Forgiveness is a powerful tool that not only heals relationships but also reflects the grace we have received through Christ. By forgiving others, we mirror the love and mercy that God extends to us, fostering unity and peace within the community. 2. The Joy of Reconciliation Paul speaks of reconciliation in 2 Corinthians 2:10, where he states, "If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him." Reconciliation is a joyous occasion that brings people together and restores broken bonds. It is a testament to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit working within us, enabling us to mend what was once broken and to live in harmony with one another. 3. The Importance of Sincere Love In 2 Corinthians 2:4, Paul writes, "For out of great distress and anguish of heart, I wrote to you with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love." This verse highlights the importance of sincere love, which is not just a feeling but an action. True love is demonstrated through genuine concern and care for others, reflecting the love of Christ in our lives. 4. The Role of Discipline Paul discusses the necessity of discipline in 2 Corinthians 2:6, where he mentions, "The punishment imposed by the majority is sufficient for him." Discipline, when administered with love and wisdom, serves as a corrective measure that guides individuals back to the right path. It is an essential aspect of spiritual growth and maturity, helping us to align our lives with God's will. 5. The Aroma of Christ In 2 Corinthians 2:15, Paul beautifully describes believers as "the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and those who are perishing." Our lives should exude the fragrance of Christ, attracting others to the gospel through our words and actions. By living in a way that honors God, we become a testament to His grace and truth in the world. 6. The Triumph in Christ Paul speaks of triumph in 2 Corinthians 2:14, declaring, "But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ." This verse reminds us that in Christ, we are victorious. No matter the challenges we face, we can trust that God is leading us to triumph, using our lives to spread the knowledge of Him everywhere. 7. The Sincerity of Our Mission In 2 Corinthians 2:17, Paul contrasts sincerity with deceit, stating, "For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God." Our mission as believers is to share the gospel with integrity and authenticity, ensuring that our motives are pure and our message is true. 8. The Call to Comfort Others Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 2:7 encourage us to "comfort him, so he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow." As followers of Christ, we are called to be a source of comfort and encouragement to those around us. By offering support and compassion, we reflect the comfort we have received from God, helping others to find hope and healing. 9. The Necessity of Repentance In 2 Corinthians 2:9, Paul writes, "My purpose in writing you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything." Repentance is a crucial step in our spiritual journey, requiring us to turn away from sin and align our lives with God's commands. It is through repentance that we experience true transformation and renewal in Christ. 10. The Assurance of God's Faithfulness Finally, 2 Corinthians 2:14 reminds us of God's unwavering faithfulness: "But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ." This assurance gives us confidence and hope, knowing that God is always with us, guiding us through every trial and triumph. His faithfulness is our anchor, providing stability and strength in all circumstances. Topics 1. Paul's Change of Plans Paul explains his decision to delay his visit to Corinth to spare the church sorrow. He emphasizes his love and concern for them, highlighting the importance of acting out of love rather than causing pain. ^"So I made up my mind that I would not make another painful visit to you."^ (2 Corinthians 2:1) 2. Forgiveness for the Offender Paul urges the Corinthians to forgive and comfort a repentant individual who had caused grief, to prevent him from being overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. This reflects the Christian principle of forgiveness and restoration. ^"Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow."^ (2 Corinthians 2:7) 3. Paul's Joy in Their Obedience Paul expresses his joy and confidence in the Corinthians' obedience, which brings him comfort and joy. This underscores the mutual encouragement between Paul and the church. ^"I have great confidence in you; I take great pride in you. I am filled with encouragement; in all our troubles my joy overflows."^ (2 Corinthians 2:3) 4. Triumphal Procession in Christ Paul uses the imagery of a Roman triumphal procession to describe how God leads believers in Christ, spreading the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere. This metaphor highlights the victory and witness of the Christian life. ^"But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him."^ (2 Corinthians 2:14) 5. The Aroma of Christ Paul describes believers as the aroma of Christ to both those being saved and those perishing, illustrating the dual response to the gospel message. This reflects the Greek concept of "euodia" (εὐωδία), meaning a sweet fragrance. ^"For we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."^ (2 Corinthians 2:15) 6. Sincerity in Ministry Paul contrasts his sincere ministry with those who peddle the word of God for profit, emphasizing the integrity and authenticity required in Christian service. This is rooted in the Greek term "eilikrineia" (εἰλικρίνεια), meaning purity or sincerity. ^"Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God."^ (2 Corinthians 2:17) Themes 1. Forgiveness and Restoration Paul emphasizes the importance of forgiving and comforting a repentant sinner to prevent overwhelming sorrow. He writes, "Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow" (2 Corinthians 2:7). The Greek word for "forgive" here is "χαρίζομαι" (charizomai), which implies a gracious pardon. 2. Paul’s Sincere Love and Concern Paul expresses his deep love and concern for the Corinthians, stating that his previous letter was written "out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears" (2 Corinthians 2:4). This highlights his pastoral care and genuine affection for the church. 3. Triumphal Procession in Christ Paul describes his ministry as a "triumphal procession" in Christ, where God "manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place" (2 Corinthians 2:14). The imagery of a Roman triumph underscores the victory and spread of the Gospel. 4. The Aroma of Christ Believers are described as "the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and those who are perishing" (2 Corinthians 2:15). The Greek word "ὀσμή" (osmé) for "aroma" signifies a fragrance that is pleasing to God, symbolizing the impact of Christian witness. 5. Sincerity in Ministry Paul contrasts his ministry with those who "peddle the word of God for profit," asserting that he speaks "in Christ with sincerity, as men sent from God" (2 Corinthians 2:17). The Greek term "εἰλικρίνεια" (eilikrineia) for "sincerity" conveys purity and transparency in his apostolic mission. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that is quick to forgive and slow to hold grudges. Ask God for wisdom and discernment in dealing with conflicts and restoring relationships. Seek protection against the schemes of the enemy that aim to sow discord and division. Pray for opportunities to be a living testimony of Christ's love and grace to those around you. As we reflect on 2 Corinthians 2, may we be inspired to embrace forgiveness and restoration, living as a fragrant offering to God and a beacon of His love to the world. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 2 Corinthians 2:1, how can Paul justify avoiding another painful visit if decisive church discipline was necessary? 2. In 2 Corinthians 2:4, is Paul’s emotional distress genuine or a literary device to manipulate his readers? 3. In 2 Corinthians 2:5–7, does Paul’s instruction to forgive the offender contradict Jesus’s approach to dealing with sin in Matthew 18? 4. In 2 Corinthians 2:9, can Paul’s claim to apostolic authority be historically verified, or is it self-appointed? 5. In 2 Corinthians 2:11, how is talk of “Satan’s schemes” reconciled with modern understandings of psychology and human behavior? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Paul’s reluctance to cause further pain to the Corinthians teach about dealing with difficult issues within a community? 2. Why do you think Paul felt it necessary to remind the Corinthians about forgiveness? 3. How can you apply Paul's advice on forgiveness in your personal relationships? 4. Why is it important to reaffirm love after an act of forgiveness? 5. What does this chapter teach about the tactics of Satan? 6. How can Paul's experiences in Troas and Macedonia be related to personal moments of anxiety and relief? 7. How do you interpret the imagery of the 'triumphal procession' in your own Christian journey? 8. How does the metaphor of the fragrance of Christ resonate with your experience of sharing or receiving the gospel? 9. How does Paul differentiate the perception of the Gospel between those who are being saved and those who are perishing? 10. How can we strive for sincerity in our Christian walk as Paul did? 11. In what ways can we spread the 'aroma' of Christ in our daily lives? 12. What can we learn from Paul's decision to leave Troas despite having an open door to preach there? 13. How does the concept of being led in 'triumphal procession' in Christ inspire you? 14. How does this chapter challenge your understanding of forgiveness and restoration? 15. What steps can you take to ensure you don't fall into Satan's trap of unforgiveness? 16. How can Paul’s sincerity and dedication to spreading the gospel serve as a model for your own Christian service? 17. How does this chapter influence your understanding of how the Gospel can be perceived differently by different people? 18. How can we ensure that the 'aroma' of Christ we spread is authentic and sincere, like Paul's? 19. How does the principle of not peddling the word of God for profit apply to present day Christian ministries? 20. How does the assurance that we are 'to God the pleasing aroma of Christ' encourage you in your faith journey? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions