The Seven Churches of Asia: Smyrna

Last week we looked at the church at Ephesus in the first seven verses of the second chapter of Revelation. The next church written to is the church in Smyrna.

Revelation 2:8-11
And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

The Positive:
The Holy Spirit, through John, has some excellent things to say about the church in Smyrna. The church had been experiencing persecution and poverty, yet had remained faithful to the Lord. They are also warned that the tribulations they are enduring will continue and increase for a short time longer. Nonetheless, they are encouraged to remain strong in the faith, that they may be given a crown of life.

We learn, then, that the physical things that must be endured are not as important as holding to the Truth. Abiding in Christ is well worth the temporary pain and troubles that can be presented to us on earth. We also learn that the Lord is aware of whatever our present situation is. We do not have a God that is aloof and uncaring, but rather one that knows what we endure, and encourages us through His word along the way.

Twice in this section the Christians at Smyrna are encouraged to “endure to the end.” Once they are told that if they do so, they will receive a crown of life. The second time, they are told that if they do so they will not be hurt by the second death.

Let us follow the example of the church at Smyrna! Let us gladly endure what we must, as Christians, that we may grasp the crown of life! Let us always remain faithful to the Lord, regardless of what things may come to pass in this life. If they, in their imprisonments, poverty, and trials can overcome, then should we not be able to do the same in our life of freedom, wealth, and mild ridicule?