What's That Smell?

Community Group Discussion Guide for the Week of February 8, 2026

Miss this week’s teaching? You can watch it here.

# Summary

Pastor Jim explores Second Corinthians chapter 2. He explains how Paul previously wrote to the Corinthian church to address their tolerance of sin and the need for spiritual maturity. The sermon emphasizes that while confrontation is painful, it's necessary when we love someone enough to speak truth. Paul also discusses the concept of believers being a 'sweet fragrance' of Christ - using the metaphor of Roman triumphal processions where incense filled the streets. This fragrance is perceived differently: sweet to those being saved, but offensive to those who reject the gospel. The message challenges believers to examine what kind of spiritual aroma their lives are emitting.

# Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with open hearts, ready to receive what You have for us in this time together. We ask that You would speak to each of us individually and as a group. Help us to be honest about our own spiritual fragrance and open to Your correction and encouragement. Give us wisdom as we discuss Your Word, and may our time together draw us closer to You and to one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.

# Ice Breaker

What's your favorite scent or fragrance, and what memory or feeling does it bring back for you?

# Key Verses

  • 2 Corinthians 2:5-8

  • Galatians 6:1-2

  • 2 Corinthians 2:14-16

# Questions

  • Pastor Jim says 'the pain of confrontation is always preferred over the sin of silence.' Why is it so difficult to confront someone we love about their sin?

  • How do we balance speaking truth in love while maintaining relationships? Share an experience where this was challenging. How did it go?

  • What does it mean that believers should be a 'sweet fragrance' of Christ? How can we practically live this out?

  • Why do you think the same 'fragrance' of the gospel attracts some people but repels others

  • Paul emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and restoration after repentance. How can the church better practice this balance of discipline, and forgiveness and grace?

  • What are some ways our lives might emit a 'foul odor' spiritually rather than the sweet fragrance of Christ?

  • How can we tell if we've 'lost our scent' as Christians? What are the warning signs?

  • Paul mentions that mature believers help restore those who have fallen into sin. What does this restoration process look like practically?

# Life Application

This week, examine your own spiritual fragrance. Ask yourself: 'What do I smell like spiritually?' Identify one area where you can better emit the sweet aroma of Christ - whether through your words, actions, attitude, or relationships. Take one specific step to 'put on the cologne of God's grace' in your daily interactions with others.

# Key Takeaways

  • The pain of confrontation is always preferred over the sin of silence

  • Church discipline should aim toward restoration and forgiveness when there is genuine repentance

  • Believers are called to be a sweet fragrance of Christ that will attract some people but repel others

  • Mature Christians have a responsibility to gently restore those who have fallen into sin

  • Our spiritual aroma is revealed through our attitudes, actions, words, and how we treat others

# Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for making us part of Your triumphal procession. Help us to be a sweet fragrance of Your gospel in our daily lives. Where we have lost our spiritual scent, restore us. Give us courage to speak truth in love when needed, and hearts that are quick to forgive and restore others. May our lives draw people to You through the sweet aroma of Your grace. Help us to live worthy of the victory You have won for us. In Your precious name, Amen.