Smyrna: Faithful in Persecution

Revelation 2:8-11 

8 “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write,  ‘These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: 9 “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
11 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.” ’

The church next to receive a letter from the Lord who is the sovereign ruler with all authority and power through death and resurrection, who brings grace and peace, is Smyrna.  Again, though this was a real church when this prophecy was given, it applies to all throughout time who in like or similar manner suffer persecution and remain faithful to Christ.  These worked hard in the gospel and did not have much due to the intense, pressing persecution for His name’s sake.  They stood up against false teachers, holding the line of truth not to be crossed that others would not be dragged over it into error.  The Lord strengthened them with authoritative resolve to ‘fear not,’ as He would be with them through the suffering.  Notice He did not tell them to claim deliverance from the suffering, but to trust Him while walking through it; this is a valuable lesson many refuse to learn in our present time, teaching empty lies of a problem free life once saved from sin and wrath.  These were told instead that they would be imprisoned and their faith tested, much as Paul often endured for the gospel’s sake to fill up what he was lacking (Colossians 1:24) in the afflictions of Christ.  We suffer with Him because He suffered, just as we are crucified daily as we take up the cross.  We have not been called to a pleasant and quiet life, free from suffering, until we join Him in the kingdom.  Yes, this present suffering (Romans 8:18) leads to an invaluable crown of eternal life!  In the end we do wisely to heed these final words, to hear what Christ says to the churches and to suffer to overcome in Him forevermore.  The second death has no power over those crucified with Christ.