2:14 always leads us in triumphal procession. Paul’s narrative suddenly shifts from the visible reality of his anxiety for the Corinthians and his disappointment at not finding Titus in Troas, to the spiritual realm. Paul sees himself as part of God’s triumphal procession into the heavenly city, much like a victory parade that an ancient general would lead upon returning to his own city with vanquished captives following behind the chariots. But here Paul—God’s former enemy—is a joyful captive and one who participates in the blessings of the King’s victory. We too have such a participation in the spiritual realm, marching in the victory procession of our great King, as the forces of the enemy crumble before His advance. Despite setbacks like Paul’s at Troas, the eyes of faith can see the unrelenting progress of the kingdom of God.