Revelation - Church at Smyrna

The Church at Smyrna

Rev 2:8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;

Jesus writes to the Church at Smyrna. He was judging the works of the seven churches. Angels are not judged by their works. They are either obedient to God or they follow satan to destruction.

Rev 2:9 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.

The city of Smyrna was a beautiful Greek City located where Turkey is now. It was a very wealthy city. It was also know for building temples to gods and godesses. They were the first to worship Caesar as God. Because Christians refused to bow to Caesar, they were persecuted and unable to work. They were very poor in one of the most prosperous of cities. Yet, Jesus called them rich. Most seek material wealth, even in the church. Jesus commended those poor in spirit, who were rich in Jesus' eyes. The synagogues of the Jews called themselves the synagogue of the LORD. But they showed that they were of satan, by persecuting the followers of Jesus.

Rev 2:10 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.

Do not fear them, even if cast into prison, which usually meant a death sentence. You shall have tribulation ten days. Perhaps ten referring to the fulness, as the ten commandments is the fullness of the law. If death would occur, be faithful to the end, and Jesus will give you a crown of eternal life.

Rev 2:11 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.

Jesus commended this church saying nothing against them. Listen to Jesus.

Rev 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

Eaglewings Ministries