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15. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 2 Corinthians 2:15; KJV. Paul explains why he delayed his visit, as he did not want to cause sorrow in the church. He teaches that the church needs discipline, forgiveness, and the restoration of repentant believers. He warns the church that unforgiveness gives Satan an open door to attack. Paul describes the spreading of the gospel message as the fragrance of Christ to the world. A fragrance cannot be hidden. Paul emphasizes that we must be sincere when sharing God's message, as well as living the gospel in our daily lives. We are to walk confidently in victory; this word, thriambeuo, means to lead in a victory procession. Victory is complete in Christ, and we have no chance of any victory without Him. Christ leads believers in His victory parade. Ministry is done in love and wisdom. Forgive quickly, restore repentant believers, spread the sweetness of Christ in your daily life, and serve God with pure motives. The lessons are: correction must be loving and compassionate; forgiveness protects the church from Satan's influence; restoration is just as important as discipline; Christians spread the fragrance of Christ wherever they are; and ministry is not for serving self. Amen.