Church of Smyrna - Tribulation will Come

Revelation 2:8-11 

“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life.

“‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.  Do not fear what you are about to suffer.  Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation.  Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.  He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.  The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’

The city of Smyrna was known as a center of wealth and prosperity in the 1st century.  Like Ephesus, they had erected shrines, temples, and statues to the Greek and Roman gods of the day including Apollos, Zeus, and others.  The city had become a center for the Roman Caesar Domitian, with statues and altars claiming him as Lord.

The Church at Smyrna had been strong in faithfulness against bowing down to these altars and gods.  But, in doing so, they had cost them dearly.  In Jesus’ letter to the Church at Smyrna, you can see Jesus proclaiming himself as God, the Lord on high.  The phrase “the first and last” at that time was associated only with Yahweh, God the Father, yet here Jesus was claiming it upon himself, and tying it back to the action of his death and resurrection 80 years prior, to give those in Smyrna confidence that He was still with them.

He knows of their tribulation and persecution at the hands of the authority in Smyrna.  For you see, they were suffering deeply in losing their livelihood, and in many cases, even their life by not bowing down to the gods of that day.  They held firm in their faith and were martyred because of it.  Satan was working through others in the city, including professed Jews, who had fallen to worship Rome and Greek gods to avoid persecution.  

Jesus’ letter is clear to those in the Church, though – remain faithful, and you will receive the ultimate reward – the crown of life eternal.  Tribulations will come, persecution will continue, but even if they were to die, they will receive their reward in heaven.

In our 21st century, there is persecution of this nature in many countries around the world.  Christians are being murdered for not conforming and giving in to the demands of other worldly religions.  In America, we haven’t a clue what real persecution is when it comes to defending our faith.  But, we can learn from Jesus’ words to the Church at Smyrna to hold fast to our faith, to our trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, even unto death.  The world is trying to pull you away, to entice you to “bow down” to their standards and give up your faith.  Do not.  Stand firm in what God has given you, even if it costs you your livelihood, your wealth, your friends, and your life.  For the true reward is eternity with Him in heaven and it is worth it to suffer while here.  Stay strong my brothers and sisters, for Satan is on the prowl and seeking the weak.