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2 Corinthians 2:16

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To the one [we are] the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who [is] sufficient for these things?

To {G3739} the one {G3303} we are the savour {G3744} of death {G2288} unto {G1519} death {G2288}; and {G1161} to the other {G3739} the savour {G3744} of life {G2222} unto {G1519} life {G2222}. And {G2532} who {G5101} is sufficient {G2425} for {G4314} these things {G5023}?

to the latter, we are the smell of death leading only to more death; but to the former, we are the sweet smell of life leading to more life. Who is equal to such a task?

To the one, we are an odor of death and demise; to the other, a fragrance that brings life. And who is qualified for such a task?

to the one a savor from death unto death; to the other a savor from life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?

Commentary

2 Corinthians 2:16 is a profound verse where the Apostle Paul describes the powerful and contrasting effects of his gospel ministry on different groups of people. It highlights the serious implications of hearing the Christian message.

Context

This verse follows Paul's discussion of his ministry and his unwavering confidence in God, even amidst challenges and suffering. In the preceding verse, 2 Corinthians 2:14, Paul introduces the imagery of a Roman triumphal procession, where victorious generals paraded captives and spoils. During such processions, incense was often burned, creating an aroma. For the victors and their allies, this scent signified triumph and life; for the captives destined for execution, it signaled impending death.

Paul applies this powerful metaphor to the proclamation of the gospel. His ministry, and indeed the message of Christ itself, acts like this potent aroma. It is not a neutral force; it elicits a definitive response.

Key Themes

  • The Dual Impact of the Gospel: The core message is that the gospel of Jesus Christ has a diametrically opposed effect depending on the hearer's spiritual condition and response.
    • "Savour of death unto death": For those who reject Christ, the gospel becomes a confirmation of their spiritual deadness, leading to eternal separation from God. It hardens their hearts and seals their condemnation. This aligns with the concept found in 1 Corinthians 1:18, where the preaching of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing.
    • "Savour of life unto life": For those who believe and embrace Christ, the same gospel brings spiritual life and leads to eternal life. It is the power of God for salvation, transforming hearts and leading to a vibrant relationship with God, as seen in Romans 1:16.
  • The Seriousness of Proclaiming the Gospel: Paul understood the immense weight of his calling. His words were not mere human opinions but carried eternal consequences. This underscores the profound responsibility of all who share the Christian message.
  • Divine Sufficiency in Ministry: The rhetorical question, "And who is sufficient for these things?" highlights Paul's humility and acknowledgment of the overwhelming nature of such a task. No human being is naturally capable of wielding such a powerful, life-or-death message. This question sets the stage for his explanation in 2 Corinthians 3:5-6, where he clarifies that his sufficiency, and indeed all true spiritual sufficiency, comes from God alone.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "savour" translates the Greek word osmē (ὀσμή), which means "smell," "scent," or "aroma." This term vividly conveys the idea of a pervasive, inescapable influence, much like a strong fragrance. The imagery is of something that is experienced by all, but interpreted differently based on their condition.

The word "sufficient" comes from the Greek hikanos (ἱκανός), meaning "adequate," "competent," or "able." Paul's question isn't one of doubt, but rather a rhetorical exclamation emphasizing that human ability alone is utterly inadequate for a ministry with such eternal stakes.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that the gospel is never neutral. When shared, it demands a response and has eternal implications for every hearer. For believers, it encourages a sober understanding of the message we carry and the profound impact it has. It also fosters humility, knowing that any effectiveness in ministry is not due to our own wisdom or strength, but entirely to the power and grace of God, who alone makes us sufficient for such a weighty calling.

We are called to faithfully proclaim the truth, trusting God with the outcome, for He is the one who causes the aroma to spread and determines its effect on each heart.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 3:5 (11 votes)

    Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency [is] of God;

  • 2 Corinthians 3:6 (11 votes)

    ¶ Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

  • John 9:39 (8 votes)

    ¶ And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.

  • 1 Peter 2:7 (7 votes)

    Unto you therefore which believe [he is] precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,

  • 1 Peter 2:8 (7 votes)

    And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, [even to them] which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

  • Luke 2:34 (6 votes)

    And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this [child] is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;

  • 1 Corinthians 15:10 (4 votes)

    But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.