Every Christian belongs to one of the 7 churches of Revelations. The Church of Smyrna (Revelations 2:8-11), is commended for being faithful. Listen to what the Lord Jesus has to say about Smyrna and examine yourself. God commends those who are faithful. This church is pleasing to God.

• Revelations 2:8-11, “And unto the angel of the church of 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.”

7 Churches of Revelations – Smyrna: Revelation of Jesus

Jesus says he is the first and last. He was dead and now he is alive. These statements reveal that Jesus is the giver of eternal life. Just as he rose from the grave those who trust and serve him will also rise from the grave.

7 Churches of Revelations – Smyrna: Jesus Knows

Jesus knows all things the church in Smyrna bears. They have great works, tribulation, and poverty. But…Jesus says they are rich…rich in the true treasures of faith. He also knows about the blasphemy of others. He knows everything that the church in Smyrna suffers.

7 Churches of Revelations – Smyrna: The Commendation

The Church of Smyrna is going to suffer. Some will be in prison and some will die for their faith. This will test and try them mightily but Christ is with them.

7 Churches of Revelations – Smyrna: The Comfort

Jesus tells those of the Church of Smyrna to fear not. If they remain faithful unto death they will receive a crown of life. This is one of only two churches that are pleasing to God and receive a crown. They will receive a better resurrection. Suffering for Christ is the highest calling of any believer, (see Acts 5:41 and Hebrews 11:35).

• Acts 5:41, “And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.”

• Hebrews 11:35-38, “…: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might gain a better resurrection:  And others had trial of cruel mockings, and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:  They were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:)…”

7 Churches of Revelations – Smyrna: The Judgment

There is no judgment or condemnation of any kind for those in the Church of Smyrna. They have the true riches of suffering for Christ. Those who suffer for the name of Jesus Christ will receive a better resurrection. Be encouraged all Christians who are suffering for the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. You will be rewarded. Suffering for Christ is temporary, but the rewards are eternal.

God encourages us to listen. He says, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches…”

7 Churches of Revelations – Smyrna: The Reward

Those who are called to suffer for Christ will never suffer hurt. Death cannot harm those who suffer for Christ, for those who die in him. His grace will keep all those who suffer for his name.

Let us pray for all who are counted worthy to suffer for Christ. Let us encourage them in their suffering. Fear not brothers and sisters in Christ that suffer.  Jesus will come for you with great reward!

In Christ
J-me
Copyright 2010 J-me

Other articles in this series are:
The Seven Churches of Revelations – Overview
7 Churches of Revelations – Ephesus
7 Churches of Revelations – Pergamos
7 Churches of Revelations – Thyatira
7 Churches of Revelations – Sardis
7 Churches of Revelations – Philadelphia
7 Churches of Revelations – Laodicea

God reveals the 7 churches of Revelations to warn and encourage Christian believers. Do you know Christ? If you are a believer…in which of the 7 churches of Revelations do you find yourself. Which of the 7 churches of Revelations do you want to belong? What must you do?

If you’re not a Christian. Please view the Jesus Connection page of this site for information on becoming a Christian and receiving God’s great blessing.