| *** Our Triumphal Procession *** A. One of the most spectacular celebrations in
the ancient world was the Roman triumph.1.
“It is impossible to describe the multitude of the shows as they
deserve, and the magnificence of them all.” (Josephus, an eye-witness of one
Triumph) 2. “I waged wars on land and
on sea… In my Triumphs nine kings or children of kings were led before my
chariot.” (Caesar Augustus, 27 BC-14 AD) B.
Images of Roman conquests and the triumphs that followed were spread
throughout the empire. 1. Coins depicted
conquered foes and victorious generals. 2.
Triumphal arches were scattered throughout the provinces like
billboards advertising Roman dominance. In fact, the first-century visitor to
Corinth would have entered its main market through a magnificent
triumphal-styled arch. C. In or around
A.D. 56, the apostle Paul wrote a second letter to the church in Corinth in
the midst of a difficult situation. That letter contains these words: “But
thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal
procession…”(2:14). I. The Lord of Glory: All-Conquering Christ Jesus A. The glorious triumph of Jesus is not some
uncertain hope for the future, but a clear and present occurrence (Matt
28:18; Acts 2:24, 33-36; 5:31; 1 Cor 15:25; 1 Pet 3:22; Col 2:14b-15).
B. He has overcome, not with the sword
(John 18:11) or with the legions of angels he could have commanded (Matt
26:53), but with self-sacrificial love (John 10:17-18; Col 1:19-20; 2:13-14).
C. Envision his glorious triumph (Rev
5:5-6; 2 Cor 13:4). 1. The conquered
captives (Eph 4:8). a. ____________(Rom 8:39; 1 Cor 10:13; Rom 8:33; John
10:14). b. _______(Rom 8:1; Heb 9:14; Rom 6:19; 1 John 2:2; John 8:34-36). c.
___________(Heb 2:14-15; 1 John 3:2). 2.
The victor’s song (Psa 24:7-10). II.
Our Place in the Triumph A.
Don’t miss this point! He leads us captive as well (Rom 6:22, 1-11; 2
Cor 2:14-16). 1. We “spread the fragrance
of the knowledge of him everywhere.” A.
It attracts some (Matt 5:16). B.
It repels others (John 15:18; 1 Cor. 1:22-24). 2. The way in which we are being led is the
way of the cross (Matt 16:24; 2 Cor 4:7-10). B. The victory of our Lord is already
complete! He now reigns! All that hangs in the balance, yet to be decided, is
our individual responses (Revelation; 2 Pet 3:9; 1 Cor 11:1). C. How are we to assure our fate? By faith! (1
John 5:4; Heb 11:1; 2 Cor 4:16-18). D. “Therefore…”(2 Cor 4:1; 5:11, 14-20).
The power is supplied. The victory is assured. God has won it through Jesus
Christ and is willing to share it with you (1 Cor. 15:57). |
