The fragrance /aroma of Christ
The aroma of any substance is what fragrance it produces when especially when agitated or in an excited state. It's a predictable characteristic of substances. It is like the nature of a substance.
In the natural how does the aroma of chicken or goat or beef come out * Application of ingredients and heat. No one needs to tell its chicken or Beef or Ogufe.
Self too has an aroma SELFISHNESS. However, we are supposed to be a fragrance of Christ. 2Cor 2, 15-16 (AMP, NIV) Fragrance of Christ. How does it come out.
John the Baptist, after his wilderness experience began to exude the fragrance of a fiery evangelist. The entire Judea came to him for baptism because of the aroma he exudes. He was epitome of truth, righteousness and self-control. Matt 3, 1-6
Jesus, made himself of no reputation, humbled himself, became obedient unto death on the cross. His lifting by his father drew all men to him. Phil. 2, 7-11
His disciples left home and businesses. Became foundation apostles, performed miracles. Great grace was upon them, How? They took knowledge of the fact that they had been with Jesus.
Paul. Walked away from his gains. In Arabia for 3 years. His overriding ambition was to know Christ and his power of resurrection. Gal. 1, 17, Phil 3, 10.
For us therefore to be aroma of Christ requires discipline, commitment plus a deep interaction with him.
1. Be with him on a continual basis: And he ordained twelve that they should be with him and that he might send them forth to preach. Mark 3, 14. David said I shall dwell in the house of the lord forever, therefore goodness and mercy shall follow me. Therefore, be followers of them who through faith and patience inherited the promise.
2. Study to shew thyself approved: 2Tim 2, 15
3. Be crucified to Him Gal 2; 20 I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live yet not I but Christ that lives in me. 2 Cor. 4. 6 - 12 The more death in us, the more the life in others, John 12, 24 Verily, verily I say unto you, except a corn of wheat falls down and dies, it abides alone; but if it dies it brings forth much fruit.
4. Endurance 2 Tim 2, 3-4. Following Christ is a marathon, it is not a dash, having laid your hand on the plough you must be persuaded to continue to the finish line for he that endures to the end the same shall be saved. Matt 24:13
5. Trust him…. In all thy way acknowledge him and he shall direct your path Prov 3, 5-8
6. Grow in Grace. 2 Pet 3,18 Grace is the availability of Christ supernatural enablement to be what he wants you to be. Engage grace and grow in it. Let it become your habit. You will go far in his aroma
7. Constantly Sow in Righteousness. Inner enlargements precede the external enlargement. Hosea 10, 12.
8. Walk in love. Eph 5: 1 Nothing shows his savour more….