“To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death. - Revelation 2:8-11
2. Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11)
Positive Characteristics: endured affliction and poverty, but rich in Jesus Christ.
Negative Characteristics: some say they are Jews but are a synagogue of Satan, and slander.
Jesus' Command to Smyrna: "Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor's crown." (v.10)
Jesus' Command to Us: "Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death." (v.11)
What can we take away from the church in Smyrna? That we need to endure, overcome, be content with what God has given us and what He has withheld from us because we know He is working out all things for good and He loves us. We should be confident in His care for us and the strength He provides, resisting the devil's evil intentions on our lives. Finally understand that we will have difficulties in life but with God, we will prevail and all will be okay!
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