140 Seven Churches of Revelation: Smyrna - The Suffering Church

Jesus introduces Himself to the Church at Smyrna as “the First and Last, the one who died and came to life again. I know your afflictions and your poverty.” In identifying Himself this way, He was telling these believers…

“I know your pain.”

Jesus knew what it was like to be mocked, beaten, imprisoned, and even killed. And He knew that these believers were being crushed by persecution. Their loyalty to Jesus had cost them everything, even their lives.

The Lord of the Church had a second word for these suffering saints…

“Don’t be afraid.”

Fear is a natural response to the unknown… especially when that unknown seems threatening.  Fear is amplified when you have to face that threat alone.

But remember, the “First and Last” sees it all and has the big picture in mind.  He also sees you and is with you. 

The third word Jesus had for these folks is…

“It’s only temporary.”

Mark it well – the Lord does not say that they won’t suffer.  Some will be imprisoned.  Some will be killed. But the reference to 10 days (in vs. 10), suggests God had sovereignly limited the amount of persecution they would face.

What does Jesus ask of them?

“Be faithful.”

Great is your reward if you are. In other words, it will be worth it.

Text: Revelation 2:8-11

Originally recorded on April 28, 2013, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN.

We are grateful to Ada Bible Church and Pastor Jeff Manion for generously sharing their teaching resources for this series.