“Thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing” (2 Cor 2:14-15).
The Anglo-Zanzibar War occurred on August 27, 1896. When a pro-British sultan died, another took his place who was not favorable to British interests, a necessity according to a treaty signed in 1886. The conflict was short; it lasted somewhere between 38 and 45 minutes!
But the battle referred to in our passage is the longest-running war in history. Notice, however: while skirmishing continues, the battle was won at Calvary. Our victory is assured! Now we seek to spread the influence of Christ across the globe so others will surrender to Him. There is nothing here about the stench of death. Christ’s death is a sweet fragrance to us, just as His life can be to those perishing. Lord, help us bear that sweet aroma today wherever we go.