2 Corinthians Sermon Series -
Discussion Guide

2 Corinthians 2:12-17 - "Our Triumphal Procession in Christ" (Rev. Erik Veerman)

In this text, we see Paul's confidence in Christ's work despite his trials. Paul follows Christ the triumphant king and leaves behind an indelible witness to life and death. 
Paul was anxious over the absence of Titus, so he left behind fruitful ministry in Troas to find him. Thankfully, Paul's trials are not an obstacle to Christ's ministry nor to Paul's joy. Christ, the conquering king, leads Paul like a prisoner of war in a military parade. And everywhere they go, they leave behind a fragrant witness of life in Christ or death at the hand of Christ. Paul's cross-shaped ministry comes with a large share of Christ's resurrection hope.

Application Questions:

1. When did Paul's unrest over Titus come to an end (see 2 Cor. 7:5-7)? What might one think about Paul's sudden departure from fruitful ministry in Troas?
2. Why does Paul shift from explaining a sudden departure from Troas to thanking God? What is the point of Paul's military metaphor?
3. What is the point of Paul's fragrance metaphor (see Eph. 5:2; Phil. 4:18)?
4. Looking ahead: Paul is preparing for a theological/Scriptural defense of his ministry in the following chapters. Why do you think he repeatedly compares his ministry to the ministry of his opponents (such as in v. 17 and earlier in 1:12)?

Scriptures for Further Study:
Psalm 68:1-4, 19-35; Revelation 19:11-16; Colossians 2:13-15