Fragrance Of Christ
(Sanctification)
(Testimony)
For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. II Corinthians 2:15
The Basic Bible Truth
As Christians, we are an example to the world. We tell them what we believe, but it is our actions that speak to them the loudest. We need to be more and more like Jesus, so that as we walk through this world, we are recognized as followers of Christ. Our lives may be the clearest presentation of the Good News those around us will ever hear (or see).
The Object
Various Toiletry Items:
Shaving Cream, Razor, Toothbrush, Spray Deodorant, And A Huge Bottle Of Aftershave (Very Diluted)
(Sanctification)
(Testimony)
For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. II Corinthians 2:15
The Basic Bible Truth
As Christians, we are an example to the world. We tell them what we believe, but it is our actions that speak to them the loudest. We need to be more and more like Jesus, so that as we walk through this world, we are recognized as followers of Christ. Our lives may be the clearest presentation of the Good News those around us will ever hear (or see).
The Object
Various Toiletry Items:
Shaving Cream, Razor, Toothbrush, Spray Deodorant, And A Huge Bottle Of Aftershave (Very Diluted)
I have included two versions of this lesson—one for mixed company and one for just boys. I have shown this to boys using the premise that these are some suggestions that they can look back on and use when getting ready for their first date. And I will always remain fully clothed, applying the deodorant under a white t-shirt, for example. I usually also line the floor with plastic, as this can be a messy lesson. The second version is for mixed company and centers on the idea of getting ready for a date also, but with one focus—the application of perfume, cologne, or aftershave.
The Lesson
#1
Gentlemen, some day you may have found a very special lady and would like to take her out on a date. Fortunately for you, I am here to share everything I know about how to get ready for that special evening. You always want to present yourself in the best possible way, and following my tips will make that a very real possibility.
First, you will want to get rid of that afternoon shadow on your face. That peach fuzz has to go. The ladies like a face that is smooth to the touch, so I recommend starting with a small amount of shaving cream applied to the areas of the face that need to be smoothed off a bit. (I grab a huge handful of cream and smash it carelessly around my face, splattering it in the process.) Carefully, pull the shaver against the grain of that tough beard and remove all of that unwanted stubble. (I have removed the sharp blade from a razor to avoid cutting myself, and, quickly and carelessly, drag the razor in all kinds of directions. Leaving gaping areas untouched, I grab a towel and rub off the unneeded shaving cream.)
Now that you have finished with this process, lets go on the next item on the list. Brushing your teeth. This is most important, especially if you plan to try for that first little kiss on the check when the evening is over. I recommend a bit of toothpaste on the brush and then, brush carefully everywhere you have teeth. (I squeeze out about half a tube of toothpaste onto the brush, holding it there with my fingers and putting the big glob in my mouth with the brush. Wiggling it around for just a second or two, and I’m done and I just swallow the toothpaste.) There, minty fresh for the evening.
Now on to even more important things. You understand that you need to smell wonderful. Going on a date stinky is a huge social faux pas. The solution to that problem is spray deodorant. I highly recommend this brand. I have found that it performs well under stressful circumstances, and let’s face it guys, first dates are always stressful situations. (I begin applying the spray deodorant while I continue to talk. And continue. The point is to use half the can on one armpit and the other half on the other. The room may even get a bit foggy.) I never know how much of this stuff to apply. Have you ever read a can of deodorant? I have never found one yet with guidelines as to how much to use, so I ere on the side of caution. More is better, I always say. I mean, really, can you ever apply too much deodorant? I think not. Better safe than sorry, especially on a first date. (Stretch the conversation at this point to empty the can completely, and then toss it aside.)
Now for the finishing touch. Aftershave. Gentlemen, the proper application for aftershave is a delicate balance of aroma. I have found this brand to be a favorite of the ladies, so I recommend buying a gallon size jug. (I have taken an empty container and filled it with mostly water and half a bottle of real aftershave. I have also printed and applied my own label for the jug, using a nationally recognized brand logo.) Applying jut the right amount of aftershave is a delicate art. There are many theories about how much and where to apply this liquid. I have found this one to work quite well. Essentially, it is based on the assumption that you want to smell great, but not be overpowering. She will probably be wearing perfume as well, and you never want to overshadow hers ever. So here is my recommendation. Apply to the face and neck area. A little on the arms. If you doubt that is enough, again, ere on the side of caution and apply just a little bit more as needed. (I begin by splashing a normal amount of aftershave on, but gradually begin to go overboard with the application process as I talk. Eventually, I get to the point where I simply pour some of the jug over the top of my head, getting myself dripping wet.) Now, at this point, I may have applied a little bit too much, but It will eventually dry and I will be ready for my date.
(At this point in the lesson, usually they are choking from the deodorant spray, and are overwhelmed with the smell of aftershave everywhere. A good place to begin the actual lesson.)
Gentlemen. Let’s get serious for just a moment. Let me ask you a question. What do you think? If I were to walk into the next room where people are meeting, would I be noticed in any way? Would I have to announce my presence? Could I just disappear in the very back row and not be noticed? Of course not. My aroma would let everyone know I was in the room. I would not have to stand up and announce myself. Believe me, they would all notice me. There is something different about me today, something undeniably evident. I smell like deodorant and aftershave.
For the Christian, the Bible says that we are the fragrance, the aroma, of Christ to the world we live in. As we go through life, our walk with God should be evident to the world. We shouldn’t need to wear a sign that says, “Hey I’m a Christian”. Simply the way we act in situations, the way we talk, should be different. We should look and act like Jesus. And believe me, the people around you will notice. Probably much more than we might wish they would. We are under pressure to bring to them the best picture of Christ we can be. So let me ask you the question this way. When you walk into a room full of people, are you carrying the fragrance of Christ to them? Or do you just stink? I hope your aroma is that which is pleasing to God—the aroma of Jesus.
#2
Ladies and gentlemen, there is coming a time soon when you will begin to notice something. Boys, you will soon notice that girls are not icky! It’s true. You will discover that soon. And girls, you will soon discover that boys are stupid—but still very fun to be around! And when you find that special someone and are contemplating going on a date, I have some very important suggestions for you.
First, it goes without saying that you need a shower and to brush your teeth. I am going to assume you know all about that stuff. What I have researched and am going to lay out for you today, is the proper application of perfume, cologne, and aftershave. You may be thinking that this is unnecessary, but understand that there is an art to doing this correctly, and I would like to show you what I have learned.
I have come up with a handy guide for applying your perfume, cologne or aftershave. And I would like to explain and demonstrate each level of application so you can refer to this evening in the future.
Level 1 I call the “Nonatall”. There are very few who can pull this one off properly, but basically it is the art of not wearing any perfume or cologne. None at all.
Level 2 is a bit more engaging. I have labeled it the “Wafting”. This requires a simple spray or spritzer type bottle. You simply spray some up into the air and then waft your whole self through the mist to the other side. Very effective and a beautiful application process as well.
Level 3 is our final level for the ladies. They certainly do not need levels 4-6. And guys, we haven’t even gotten to your lowest level yet. I call level 3 the “Polka-dot”. Take the cap off of the bottle and placing your finger over the top dip it slightly and dampen the end of your finger. Then polka-dot it behind the ear, or under the chin, or maybe on the inside of the wrist. I’ve seen my wife use this method often.
Level 4. Ok guys, this is your lowest level of application. Girls, we are now past your levels, so you can just sit back and watch. This level is called the “Rub-a-dub”. Take the lid off the bottle of cologne and pour a small amount into the palm of your hand. Rub both hands together briskly, rubbing the moisture into the whole hands and then traveling up the arms and wiping it all off on your shirt and jeans.
Level 5 is called the “Splash”. Pour a large amount into the hand and splash it up against your face, and then another onto the others side of the face and then another onto the neck and then another…well you get the idea.
Level 6 is only for emergencies. Suppose you have been working outside all afternoon on a hot day and you suddenly realize that you have a date in 10 minutes! No time for a shower! Level 6 is called the “Anointing”. Simply dump the bottle over your head and shoulders like this until it is completely empty! And you are ready to go!
(At this point everyone in the room is going to be choking on the very strong smell, and is a good time to begin the actual Bible lesson.)
Let’s get serious for just a moment. Let me ask you a question. What do you think? If I were to walk into the next room where people are meeting, would I be noticed in any way? Would I have to announce my presence? Could I just disappear in the very back row and not be noticed? Of course not. My aroma would let everyone know I was in the room. I would not have to stand up and announce myself. Believe me, they would all notice me. There is something different about me today, something undeniably evident. I smell like deodorant and aftershave.
For the Christian, the Bible says that we are the fragrance, the aroma, of Christ to the world we live in. As we go through life, our walk with God should be evident to the world. We shouldn’t need to wear a sign that says, “Hey I’m a Christian”. Simply the way we act in situations, the way we talk, should be different. We should look and act like Jesus. And believe me, the people around you will notice. Probably much more than we might wish they would. We are under pressure to bring to them the best picture of Christ we can be. So let me ask you the question this way. When you walk into a room full of people, are you carrying the fragrance of Christ to them? Or do you just stink? I hope your aroma is that which is pleasing to God—the aroma of Jesus.
Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide
The Lesson
#1
Gentlemen, some day you may have found a very special lady and would like to take her out on a date. Fortunately for you, I am here to share everything I know about how to get ready for that special evening. You always want to present yourself in the best possible way, and following my tips will make that a very real possibility.
First, you will want to get rid of that afternoon shadow on your face. That peach fuzz has to go. The ladies like a face that is smooth to the touch, so I recommend starting with a small amount of shaving cream applied to the areas of the face that need to be smoothed off a bit. (I grab a huge handful of cream and smash it carelessly around my face, splattering it in the process.) Carefully, pull the shaver against the grain of that tough beard and remove all of that unwanted stubble. (I have removed the sharp blade from a razor to avoid cutting myself, and, quickly and carelessly, drag the razor in all kinds of directions. Leaving gaping areas untouched, I grab a towel and rub off the unneeded shaving cream.)
Now that you have finished with this process, lets go on the next item on the list. Brushing your teeth. This is most important, especially if you plan to try for that first little kiss on the check when the evening is over. I recommend a bit of toothpaste on the brush and then, brush carefully everywhere you have teeth. (I squeeze out about half a tube of toothpaste onto the brush, holding it there with my fingers and putting the big glob in my mouth with the brush. Wiggling it around for just a second or two, and I’m done and I just swallow the toothpaste.) There, minty fresh for the evening.
Now on to even more important things. You understand that you need to smell wonderful. Going on a date stinky is a huge social faux pas. The solution to that problem is spray deodorant. I highly recommend this brand. I have found that it performs well under stressful circumstances, and let’s face it guys, first dates are always stressful situations. (I begin applying the spray deodorant while I continue to talk. And continue. The point is to use half the can on one armpit and the other half on the other. The room may even get a bit foggy.) I never know how much of this stuff to apply. Have you ever read a can of deodorant? I have never found one yet with guidelines as to how much to use, so I ere on the side of caution. More is better, I always say. I mean, really, can you ever apply too much deodorant? I think not. Better safe than sorry, especially on a first date. (Stretch the conversation at this point to empty the can completely, and then toss it aside.)
Now for the finishing touch. Aftershave. Gentlemen, the proper application for aftershave is a delicate balance of aroma. I have found this brand to be a favorite of the ladies, so I recommend buying a gallon size jug. (I have taken an empty container and filled it with mostly water and half a bottle of real aftershave. I have also printed and applied my own label for the jug, using a nationally recognized brand logo.) Applying jut the right amount of aftershave is a delicate art. There are many theories about how much and where to apply this liquid. I have found this one to work quite well. Essentially, it is based on the assumption that you want to smell great, but not be overpowering. She will probably be wearing perfume as well, and you never want to overshadow hers ever. So here is my recommendation. Apply to the face and neck area. A little on the arms. If you doubt that is enough, again, ere on the side of caution and apply just a little bit more as needed. (I begin by splashing a normal amount of aftershave on, but gradually begin to go overboard with the application process as I talk. Eventually, I get to the point where I simply pour some of the jug over the top of my head, getting myself dripping wet.) Now, at this point, I may have applied a little bit too much, but It will eventually dry and I will be ready for my date.
(At this point in the lesson, usually they are choking from the deodorant spray, and are overwhelmed with the smell of aftershave everywhere. A good place to begin the actual lesson.)
Gentlemen. Let’s get serious for just a moment. Let me ask you a question. What do you think? If I were to walk into the next room where people are meeting, would I be noticed in any way? Would I have to announce my presence? Could I just disappear in the very back row and not be noticed? Of course not. My aroma would let everyone know I was in the room. I would not have to stand up and announce myself. Believe me, they would all notice me. There is something different about me today, something undeniably evident. I smell like deodorant and aftershave.
For the Christian, the Bible says that we are the fragrance, the aroma, of Christ to the world we live in. As we go through life, our walk with God should be evident to the world. We shouldn’t need to wear a sign that says, “Hey I’m a Christian”. Simply the way we act in situations, the way we talk, should be different. We should look and act like Jesus. And believe me, the people around you will notice. Probably much more than we might wish they would. We are under pressure to bring to them the best picture of Christ we can be. So let me ask you the question this way. When you walk into a room full of people, are you carrying the fragrance of Christ to them? Or do you just stink? I hope your aroma is that which is pleasing to God—the aroma of Jesus.
#2
Ladies and gentlemen, there is coming a time soon when you will begin to notice something. Boys, you will soon notice that girls are not icky! It’s true. You will discover that soon. And girls, you will soon discover that boys are stupid—but still very fun to be around! And when you find that special someone and are contemplating going on a date, I have some very important suggestions for you.
First, it goes without saying that you need a shower and to brush your teeth. I am going to assume you know all about that stuff. What I have researched and am going to lay out for you today, is the proper application of perfume, cologne, and aftershave. You may be thinking that this is unnecessary, but understand that there is an art to doing this correctly, and I would like to show you what I have learned.
I have come up with a handy guide for applying your perfume, cologne or aftershave. And I would like to explain and demonstrate each level of application so you can refer to this evening in the future.
Level 1 I call the “Nonatall”. There are very few who can pull this one off properly, but basically it is the art of not wearing any perfume or cologne. None at all.
Level 2 is a bit more engaging. I have labeled it the “Wafting”. This requires a simple spray or spritzer type bottle. You simply spray some up into the air and then waft your whole self through the mist to the other side. Very effective and a beautiful application process as well.
Level 3 is our final level for the ladies. They certainly do not need levels 4-6. And guys, we haven’t even gotten to your lowest level yet. I call level 3 the “Polka-dot”. Take the cap off of the bottle and placing your finger over the top dip it slightly and dampen the end of your finger. Then polka-dot it behind the ear, or under the chin, or maybe on the inside of the wrist. I’ve seen my wife use this method often.
Level 4. Ok guys, this is your lowest level of application. Girls, we are now past your levels, so you can just sit back and watch. This level is called the “Rub-a-dub”. Take the lid off the bottle of cologne and pour a small amount into the palm of your hand. Rub both hands together briskly, rubbing the moisture into the whole hands and then traveling up the arms and wiping it all off on your shirt and jeans.
Level 5 is called the “Splash”. Pour a large amount into the hand and splash it up against your face, and then another onto the others side of the face and then another onto the neck and then another…well you get the idea.
Level 6 is only for emergencies. Suppose you have been working outside all afternoon on a hot day and you suddenly realize that you have a date in 10 minutes! No time for a shower! Level 6 is called the “Anointing”. Simply dump the bottle over your head and shoulders like this until it is completely empty! And you are ready to go!
(At this point everyone in the room is going to be choking on the very strong smell, and is a good time to begin the actual Bible lesson.)
Let’s get serious for just a moment. Let me ask you a question. What do you think? If I were to walk into the next room where people are meeting, would I be noticed in any way? Would I have to announce my presence? Could I just disappear in the very back row and not be noticed? Of course not. My aroma would let everyone know I was in the room. I would not have to stand up and announce myself. Believe me, they would all notice me. There is something different about me today, something undeniably evident. I smell like deodorant and aftershave.
For the Christian, the Bible says that we are the fragrance, the aroma, of Christ to the world we live in. As we go through life, our walk with God should be evident to the world. We shouldn’t need to wear a sign that says, “Hey I’m a Christian”. Simply the way we act in situations, the way we talk, should be different. We should look and act like Jesus. And believe me, the people around you will notice. Probably much more than we might wish they would. We are under pressure to bring to them the best picture of Christ we can be. So let me ask you the question this way. When you walk into a room full of people, are you carrying the fragrance of Christ to them? Or do you just stink? I hope your aroma is that which is pleasing to God—the aroma of Jesus.
Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide