Revelation 2:8-9; The Church in Smyrna (1)

Revelation 2:8-9 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; 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.

Symrna was a suffering church, suffering affliction and poverty as a result of severe persecutions that came upon that church. We see the purity and strength of a persecuted church. A church purged from error, from sin through the crucible of suffering.

Affliction and poverty came upon this church. But it stood the test of faith because it possesses true faith. This is the strength of true faith. It cannot be destroyed through trials and tribulations, sufferings and afflictions.

Our children in children’s camp played the game “persecution”. In Symrna, it was not a play. It’s was real! Our Lord Jesus said these words of encouragement before He went to the cross that the Christians who look to Him will have the strength to overcome every tribulation and affliction that may come their way – John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer. (Romans 12:15) Amen.