Grilling Meat for Salvation's Sake

Scripture: For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? 2 Corinthians 2:15-16

Observation: As Paul is discussing his recent actions and travels, he makes this statement. Recounting the descriptions of burnt offerings from the scriptures, he describes the work of apostles and the message of salvation by faith as 'the pleasing aroma' of Christ (as Christ is the great sacrifice, the Gospel then is the smoke and smell arising from that alter). However, that aroma - that experience - is received by both believers and non-believers.

The message of salvation is heard by both those who receive the message, repent, believe, and thus are being saved ... and by those who reject the message, turn away from truth, and thus are perishing. To the latter, then, the message of salvation is an aroma of death, or to carry the metaphor through, it smells like a dead body being burned on a funeral pyre. However, to those who believe, the message of salvation is an aroma of life, like well-seasoned food cooking on a grill to be eaten and thus to sustain our daily strength.

Application: Everyone receives the message of Jesus Christ. Those who sit in total rejection of all faith and all belief of everything, even in God himself ... receive the message of salvation by faith. It is just that they turn up their nose at it, and not only reject it but do so with disdain and scorn and ridicule and disgust. In fact, they hate it and find it offensive to their senses.

And yet, I must find ways to continue to deliver that message. I must continue to ... grill the meat that is the message of salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus, and invite everyone to the backyard cookout.

Prayer: Lord, may we at Evergreen continue to find the means to draw others to our table and eat with us. Some will be angered and offended, and even hostile. Some will be curious. And some will come. That is all for you to manage. May we continue to grill. Amen.