Berean Bible Study

The Seven Letters to the Seven Churches

Smyrna, Part 2

The Persecuted Church

Rev 2:8 "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."'

OK, last time, we covered the history of Smyrna, now called Izmir. The city had been destroyed and rebuilt – or had died and was resurrected – numerous times. The most recent time was in 1922, when 150,000 of its people, primarily Christians, were killed and 80% of the city burned. Today, the city is one of the largest cities in Turkey with 3.6 million people. There are still Christians there, but it is mostly Muslim now.

We talked about Polycarp, the Christian bishop of Smyrna. His story is the letter to Smyrna lived out. He learned from the Apostle John – the very one who had been told to write to Smyrna by Jesus, so you can surely believe that he took the letter to heart. He was the leader of the church in Smyrna for a long time, and then under the emperor Marcus Aurelius, he was arrested for teaching about Jesus and for refusing to acknowledge the emperor as a god. Given a chance to recant, he responded, "Eighty and six years have I served him, and he never once wronged me; how then shall I blaspheme my King, Who hath saved me?"

We also started on the text of the letter. The name “Smyrna” means “myrrh.” Myrrh is a costly perfume that was often used for embalming the dead. You got it by making incisions in the bark of the tree and letting the sap seep out – much like making the tree bleed through wounds. The sap was then dried and crushed to release the fragrance. The word is used four times in the New Testament, each time connected with Jesus:

Matt 2:11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (Birth, but foreshadowing His death)

Mark 15:23 Then they gave Him wine mingled with myrrh to drink, but He did not take it. (Dying)

John 19:38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. 39 And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. (Dead)

Rev 2:8 "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: (Dead and Risen)

Myrrh is a picture of suffering. Think about what it means that this city was named Smyrna, a couple thousand years before there was ever a church there. Its name was no accident, but chosen by God. He arranges every last little detail, thousands of years in advance.

The Poor Rich Church by John MacArthur

An interesting fact about myrrh is that it has to be crushed before it gives forth any fragrance. The more it is crushed, the more fragrant it becomes. The same thing was true of the church in Smyrna. The more the people were crushed, the sweeter the aroma. The more they were stomped on, the more the world caught the fragrance of their faith and love. The crushed church is the fragrant church. God permitted Satan to bruise that church; the harder he bruised it, the more he released the fragrance of its grace, and the more devastating its testimony became.

Running to Jesus. It is interesting to see what happens to a believer or a church in persecution. They are very much like a child. When a child is hurt or wounded, his normal response is to run to his mother and explain where he hurts. The church in persecution responds in much the same way. The more we are crushed, the more we run to Jesus. Instead of destroying the church, persecution drives the church to Jesus Christ.

The more the church is crushed, the sweeter it smells; the more it hurts, the more it runs to Jesus. Have you noticed that happening in your life? When do you find yourself leaning on the breast of Christ? When things are going badly? Of course! Perhaps that will help you to understand why God brings trouble into your life. He knows that's what you need to make you turn to Him.

The little church in Smyrna was being crushed for its love for Christ; the more they were crushed, the more they loved. Contrast that with the church in Ephesus. Those people had everything going their way--no particular problems from persecution. But what did they lose? Love. They left their first love. The church in Smyrna didn't. The more the world hated them, the more they loved Jesus; the more the world stomped on them, the more they leaned on Christ.

The Christ-loving saints in the little church in Smyrna were destitute, crushed, powerless, and poverty-stricken. However, they were comforted in the warm arms of Jesus Christ and exuded a fragrance that the world would notice.

'These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life. Even the title Jesus chooses from chapter 1 fits the theme of this letter. These people were facing physical death, but Jesus is reminding them that death was simply the doorway to eternal life. He is seeking to remind them that because HE is alive, so they will be, too.

This was a real church that these things were really happening to. Historically, if the prophetic ages has any validity, Smyrna represents that time period from about 100 A.D. until the time that Constantine stops the persecution in 313 A.D. with the Edict of Toleration, which granted religious freedom. The church at Smyrna also represents every persecuted church of every age. The church in China comes to mind. The Coming Influence of China by Carl Lawrence and David Wang and Safely Home, the novel by Randy Alcorn (a fictional version of the real events in The Coming Influence of China) are both about the persecuted church in China, where people die or are imprisoned for their faith all the time. Smyrna also represents the individual persecuted believer, who might be a member of any church.

I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich). Again, as with the church at Ephesus, Jesus knows their works. Nothing is hidden from Him. He knows their tribulation. That word is thlipsis (thlē'-psēs) in Greek. It means pressure, or to be squeezed, like a great, grinding crushing kind of pressure. It literally means to be crushed. (fits with the myrrh) Interestingly, the first time that word is used in the Bible is in Matthew 13:

Matt 13:20 But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles. 22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. 23 But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty."

The church in Smyrna was represented by the good ground. They were under persecution, but they did not give up. They held firmly to their faith. There were no hypocrites there. These people were dying for what they believed. People do not die for what they believe is a lie.

Jesus is not promising relief from the tribulation. On the contrary, He promises tribulation – not just for Smryna, but for all of us:

John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

John 15:20 Remember the word that I said to you, 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

Acts 14:21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God."

1 Thess 3:3 no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. 4 For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know.

2 Tim 3:12 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

Matt 10:22 And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved.

John 16:2 They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service.

1 Peter 3:13 And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed. "And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled." 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 16 having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. 17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

Why? Why suffering and pain? Because we live in a sin-damaged world, one where Satan is still the roaring lion, looking for people to devour. Why does God allow it? Because He uses our suffering and pain to bless us, to grow our faith, to bring us to Him – to have a reason to give us rewards in heaven!!

Assignment: Remember the worst times of your life. Take a few minutes and look back at the very lowest points of your life – those filled with grief, humiliation, despair. Maybe you lost a parent or even a child. Maybe your husband cheated on you or abandoned you or both. Maybe…whatever. Every one of us has had days or weeks or years of our lives that we thought we would never get through. Now, try to see it from God’s perspective. How did He bless you through it? What did you gain from your pain?

Revelation 2:9 "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.

Poverty: ptōcheia (ptō-khā'-ä)

This is not just a little poor, but beggary, destitute.

Rich: plousios (plü'-sē-os)

This is not just a little rich, but very wealthy, abounding in possessions. What kind of possessions? Eternal ones. We’re not just talking fluff in the sky, here, though.

The perfect commentary on this idea is in 2 Corinthians:

2 Cor 8:9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.

How rich is God? Seriously, how rich is God? He owns absolutely everything in the universe. With a word, He could create another universe. So, obviously, possessions are only part of God’s riches. God is all knowing. He possesses all wisdom and understanding. He is all loving. He IS love. God is all powerful. He commands kings and kingdoms. Barack Obama is under God’s control. He even controls the names of places. Can we even imagine the riches of God?

Yet, for our sake, Jesus became poor. What does that mean? He was physically poor – born into a poor family, in a stable with animals, no less. But, more than that, Jesus gave up control into the Father’s hands. He did absolutely nothing for Himself. He only did what the Father wanted, every minute of every day. He gave up His glory, to the point where He was ridiculed, beaten, spit upon and humiliated. And then, He allowed Himself to be crucified – the most horrible way of dying that Satan could come up with.

And, He did all that, so that WE could become rich.

Rom 8:16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs — heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

Jesus inherits all things – and we are joint heirs with Him!!! Just think of it!

Eph 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

1 Cor 2:9 But as it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him."

Matt 25:34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

Rev 21:7 He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son.

A Heavenly Inheritance

1 Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith — the salvation of your souls.

I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. There may be multiple layers of meaning here.

The Church in Prophetic Perspective: The Poor Rich Church by John MacArthur

The Reasons for their Persecution

You say, "But I don't understand why they were persecuted." The church at Smyrna was opposed to three things:

1) Emperor Worship

Two hundred years before Christ was born, about 195 B.C., the "Dea Roma" (Rome personified as a goddess) had been built in Smyrna. The city became a center of emperor worship: The people began by worshiping Rome and then later by worshiping Caesar. Emperor worship became an offshoot of what was originally the worship of Rome.

The Christians in Smyrna lived in the midst of emperor worship: Caesar was a god to the people. Christians, however, were not going to sprinkle incense in a flame before a bust of Caesar. Consequently, they were accused of a lack of patriotism. The entire society boycotted them.

2) Pagan Worship

Christians also didn't fit into a society that was involved in pagan worship. There were temples, festivals, and supposed gods and goddesses by the thousands. Just as America has lampposts along the streets, Smyrna had pagan idols along their streets. They were everywhere. Idolatry of the grossest type existed in Smyrna. Of course the Christians didn't follow along, so they were ostracized from society.

But the real persecution didn't come from those who worshiped the emperor or idols, but from...

3) The Jews

Revelation 2:9 says, "... I know the blasphemy of them who say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan."

a) The Synagogue of Satan

Christ calls these particular Jews "the synagogue of Satan." You say, "What does He mean by that?" The Jews once went to the synagogue of God. But that same synagogue was no longer the synagogue of the Lord; it became the synagogue of Satan. Why? Most Jews rejected the Messiah of God. If you don't have Jesus Christ in your life, and God is not your God, then your master is Satan--whether you are Jew or Gentile. So Jesus says, "... I know the blasphemy of them who say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan" (v. 9). The same place that used to belong to the Lord now belonged to Satan.

b) The Blasphemy towards Christians

Jesus says, "... I know the blasphemy ...." You say, "What does He mean by `blasphemy'?" That word is usually associated with someone blaspheming God. But in this case, certain Jews were literally slandering the Christians. They despised Christianity. In the early days of the church, many of the followers of Judaism hated Christians. For example, the Apostle Paul was a Jew, and he despised Christians. Before he was saved, he spent most of his time trying to kill them. Since the Jewish system hated Christianity, Christians were often slandered by the Jews. When anyone has slandered Christians, then he has despised Christianity. When Christianity is despised, then Christ has been despised. Finally, if Christ is despised, then God has been blasphemed. Christians in Smyrna had been mercilessly slandered by certain Jews. They had joined with the heathen in putting Christians to death.

(1) INSIGHTS FROM ACTS

You say, "Are you sure this is true?" Absolutely. The book of Acts is full of incidents that reveal the hatred of certain Jews toward believers. In fact, when Christ came, the Jewish leaders hated Christ and everything that He stood for. That hatred continued in the book of Acts. For example:

(a) In Antioch

Acts 13:50 says, "But the Jews stirred up the devout and honorable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their borders." Jews persecuted Christians in Antioch.

(b) In Iconium

Acts 14:2 says, "But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren." They created great havoc. According to verse 5, they were even planning to stone all the Christians.

Acts 14:19 says, "And there came there certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead." The Jewish leaders never did it; they only did the talking and persuading: They usually got somebody else to do their dirty work for them.

(d) In Thessalonica

Acts 17:5 says, "But the Jews who believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain vile fellows of the baser sort ...." In this case, unbelieving Jews hired a bunch of thugs to persecute Christians.

Many Jews hated Christianity with a passion. They went about avidly trying to destroy Christians.

The Persecution of the Jews

Before you blame the Jews, remember that in general they were in the dark--the god of this world had blinded their minds (2 Cor. 4:4). And that was how the situation was when Christianity began. But not too long after that, the situation was reversed. The Jews have been persecuted at the hands of so-called Christian nations. The land where the Reformation began with Martin Luther was the same land that destroyed six million Jews in attempted genocide. But it wasn't always that way. At the beginning, many Jews hated Christianity. They were the ones doing the persecuting.

(2) INSIGHT FROM HISTORY

During the time of the Roman Empire, there were some wealthy Jewish proselytes who had the ear of the authorities. Some of the more important people in the Roman Empire were Jewish proselytes--they had been converted to Judaism. And they hated Christianity. Reportedly, the first Roman emperor to kill Christians was Nero. Why did he do that? One reason might be this: Nero had two very dear friends, Alituris, and Nero's lover Poppaea (who later became his wife). Both of them were Jewish proselytes. They persuaded Nero against the Christians.

c) The Claim of the Jewish Population

There was a large Jewish population present in Smyrna who undoubtedly poisoned the minds of the people toward the Christians. Revelation 2:9 says that they slandered the Christians and claimed to be Jews. But they weren't. You say, "What do you mean?" A true Jew is one who has been circumcised in the heart (Rom. 2:28-29). In Romans 9:6 Paul says, "... they are not all Israel, who are of Israel." The true Jew is one inwardly, not outwardly. And God says, "They claim to be My people, but they aren't. They don't belong to the synagogue of the Lord, but to the synagogue of Satan because of their blasphemy against Me."

The Death of Polycarp

The Jews in Smyrna were blaspheming and persecuting the Christians. That is not mere speculation because history has left us with an account of the death of one of the Smyrnaean Christians: Polycarp, the pastor of the church in Smyrna. In a letter addressed by the church at Smyrna to the churches in the Christian world, it is related that Jews joined with pagans in clamoring that Polycarp should be cast to the lions or burned alive. The account follows:

"It was the time of the public games; the city was crowded; and the crowds were excited. Suddenly the shout went up: `Away with the atheists; let Polycarp be searched for.' No doubt Polycarp could have escaped; but already he had had a dream vision in which he saw the pillow under his head burning with fire, and he had awakened to tell his disciples: `I must be burnt alive.'

"His whereabouts was betrayed by a slave who collapsed under torture. They came to arrest him .... Not even the police captain wished to see Polycarp die. On the brief journey to the city, he pled with the old man: `What harm is it to say, "Caesar is Lord" and to offer sacrifice and be saved?' But Polycarp was adamant that for him only Jesus Christ was Lord.

"When he entered the arena ... [the] proconsul gave him the choice of cursing the name of Christ and making sacrifice to Caesar or death. `Eighty and six years have I served Him,' said Polycarp, `and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?' The proconsul threatened him with burning, and Polycarp replied: `You threaten me with the fire that burns for a time, and is quickly quenched, for you do not know the fire that awaits the wicked in the judgment to come and in everlasting punishment. Why are you waiting? Come, do what you will.'

"So the crowds came flocking with faggots from the workshops and from the baths, and the Jews, even although they were breaking the Sabbath law by carrying such burdens, were foremost in bringing wood for the fire. They were going to bind him to the stake. `Leave me as I am,' He said, `for He who gives me power to endure the fire, will grant me to remain in the flames unmoved even without the security you will give by the nails.' So they left him loosely bound in the flames" (William Barclay, The Revelation of John, vol. 1 [Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1976], pp. 76- 77). Polycarp died for Christ. That was just one incident in the life of the Smyrnaean church.

OK, that is the historical perspective. However, we know that these letters are also meant for us today. In that case, who are those who “Say they are Jews but are not?” How is it being used in the letter? As “God’s people,” right? So, who are God’s people? The Christian Church. So, for us personally, since we are not being blasphemed by Jews, this is talking about false Christians.

Remember the parables of Matthew 13?

Parable of the Four Soils

The Parable of the Sower Explained

Matt 13:18"Therefore hear the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside. 20 But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles. 22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. 23 But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty."

The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares

Matt 13:24 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; 25 but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. 26 But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. 27 So the servants of the owner came and said to him, 'Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?' 28 He said to them, 'An enemy has done this.' The servants said to him, 'Do you want us then to go and gather them up?' 29 But he said, 'No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, "First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn."'"

The Parable of the Tares Explained

Matt 13:36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him, saying, "Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field."

37 He answered and said to them: "He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. 38 The field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one. 39 The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels. 40 Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. 41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, 42 and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

The Parable of the Mustard Seed

Matt 13:31 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, 32 which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches."

The Parable of the Leaven

Matt 13:33 Another parable He spoke to them: "The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened."

We can all think about those that call themselves Christian, but aren’t. They may THINK they are Christian. Remember, Jesus said there would be those who come to Him and say, “Lord, Lord, didn’t we. . .?” and He will tell them, “Away from me, you evildoers. I never knew you.” These parables also talk about those who KNOW they are not, but enter secretly. The Bible calls them wolves in sheep’s clothing and has a lot to say about them and their end.

OK, now to make this really personal, though. I’m going to suggest that we take this one step further when we think about how to learn from this letter. We are each one Christians. We are not among those who “Say they are Jews and are not,” but we can still take a lesson from it.

Be careful not to take the name of Christian lightly. Don’t take the “Lord’s name in vain.”

Ex 20:7 "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain .

Using God’s name to curse is certainly one way to understand this. Pretty heavy penalty for something many people do, and yet, there it is. That’s why we need a Savior, right? Now, not negating that at all, but there are other ways to understand this in addition to that.

Saying, “God said” when He really didn’t. Using God’s name just to sell something. “Churches” claiming to be Christian that are not – Christian Science, Church of Latter Day Saints, Church of Christ? But, what about taking the name of God upon yourself and then acting just like the world? Would that be taking God’s name in vain? Didn’t Jesus tell us to “count the cost?”

There’s a very old saying, “Preach the Gospel at all times. If necessary, use words.” Thanks to Anita, I now know that it was Francis of Assisi who said that originally. The point is, people are watching you. Unbelievers have this very sensitive “hypocrite alert” sensor built into them. They want to be able to say, “You aren’t any different from me.” Now, we will sin. We have to remind people that Jesus died for sinners, and that believers still sin. However, we are also called out of sin. “Go and sin no more,” Jesus says.

We are called to be separate. There are hundreds of verses on that. Here is just one:

1 John 2:15 Do not love the world or the things in the world . If anyone loves the world , the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world — the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life — is not of the Father but is of the world.

Now, just to repeat. I am NOT applying the phrase, “Those who say they are Jews but are not” to real Christians. I just want us to get as much from this personally as we can, and that is one lesson we can take away: Do not take the name of Christian upon yourself lightly.

Do not fear suffering

Revelation 2:10 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.

Jesus is not promising relief from their suffering in this world. He’s basically telling them that they could die. They would be tested. Why? So their faith could be proved genuine. God knew their faith was genuine. He wanted THEM to know their faith was genuine. He also wanted an opportunity to reward them

First, do not fear:

Matt 10:28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

2 Tim 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Acts 20:22 And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.

Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out,"Abba, Father." 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs — heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested.

Again, why tested? Peter explains:

6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,

Job 23:10 But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.

Ps 66:10 For you, O God, tested us; you refined us like silver.

Zech 13:9 This third I will bring into the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, 'They are my people,' and they will say, 'The LORD is our God.'"

Rom 5:3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

1 Peter 4:12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

Suffering brings perseverance. What is that?

hupomone (hoop-om-on-ay') It is the steadfast, patient endurance of whatever comes, trusting God with the outcome.

It is the same as here:

2 Tim 2:12 if we endure, we will also reign with him.

Where does this patient endurance come from? God supplies it:

Col 1:9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10 And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

God supplies it and then rewards you for having it:

James 1:12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

Or, as it says in our text here: Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Now, what about those ten days? And you will have tribulation ten days. There are lots of different ideas. For example, there were ten Roman emperors that persecuted Christians:

The Church of Smyrna

This was the Church of the Martyrs, covering the time from the beginning of Nero’s persecutions in 64 AD to the Edict of Milan, when Constantine ended the persecutions in 313 AD. The name Smyrnameans "myrrh," an anointing oil and spice which was used to prepare the dead for burial. The more one crushed it, the sweeter the fragrance.

So it was with the martyrs of this time period. They were crushed by the full fury of the Roman Empire, but the more they were killed, the more fragrant the aroma before God and men. Men marveled at their great courage and converted to Christ faster than Rome could kill them. The "ten days" of persecution that John mentions in Rev. 2:10 are generally taken to include the final ten years of the most horrible persecution of Diocletian from 303 to 313 AD. However, he was only the tenth emperor to make such persecution a policy of government. There were ten Roman Emperors who persecuted Christians as a matter of public policy. These may be thought of as ten "days" or times of persecution and tribulation for this church. They are as follows:

1. Nero (64 AD)

2. Domitian (95)

3. Trajan (107)

4. Hadrian (127)

5. Aurelius (165)

6. Severus (202)

7. Maximus (235)

8. Decius (249)

9. Valerianus (257)

10. Diocletian (303)

Some people think that it just means a limited amount of time. It's possible that there yet remains ten literal days. In any case, for us as individuals, we are called to stand firm, regardless of what happens to us. And, if we do, we will be rewarded with the crown of life.

A song in that spirit: Forty Brave Soldiers for Jesus

Interestingly, all the crowns for believers are the Greek word stephanos (stef'-an-os). A stephanos is the victor's crown given at the games. The other kind of crown is diadem, which was the crown for kings. Jesus' crown of thorns was a stephanos of thorns, a victor's crown. When he returns, he will be wearing many crowns, many diadems, as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Striving for a Crown

1 Cor 9:24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown , but we for an imperishable crown . 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Five Crowns in the Bible for Believers

There are five Crowns which can be given to believers, found in the scriptures.

1. The incorruptible crown: 1 Cor. 9:24,25. This is also called the imperishable crown. This crown is given to believers who faithfully run the race, who crucify every selfish desire in the flesh and point men to Jesus. God calls some people to do things that will require some sacrifice in the way they will live and conduct their lives. Some people may be called to be a missionary in a far off and poor country. They will literally be working for almost nothing in earthly terms. They will have to sacrifice the money, possessions and life style they could have had, if they stayed home in their own country. This verse also implies that these people will also receive this crown for the sacrifices they were willing to make for God in order to successfully complete the call and mission God had called them to do.

Basically run whatever race that God has set out for you and be the best you can be for God. Be willing to make whatever sacrifices there may be to successfully complete the mission that God has set out for you.

2. The crown of rejoicing: 1 Thess. 2:19, 20. To those who faithfully are witnesses to the saving grace of God and leads souls to Jesus. This crown has also been named the soul winner's crown. It seems to indicate here that God will be giving a crown to those who have been witnessing to others and leading people to Christ.

Telling others about the grace of God, trying to help people get saved is the greatest thing that you can do for someone while here on this earth. When you help someone to be led to the Lord, you have just been used as a vessel of God.

God will judge you by your willingness and desire to be used by Him to witness to others, not necessarily on how many actually get saved, because we are to water and He gives the increase. There are many Christians who are simply too busy to be willing to be used by God to try to lead others to the Lord.. God can fit opportunities for you in your life to witness and work for Him if you allow Him to. Some could be your unsaved friends, family members or co-workers, etc.

3. The crown of life: James 1:12. For those believers who endure trials, tribulations, and severe suffering, even unto death Rev. 2:8-11. This crown is also referred to as the martyr's crown.

Jesus says that He will give this crown to those who undergo severe hardship, testing, tribulation and/or physical death on His behalf. Probably being willing to die for your faith in God would be the ultimate sacrifice. It is the greatest act of courage and love that you can show God. Christians who have been martyred for their faith throughout history will not only be given this crown of life, but other rewards once they enter into heaven.

God the Father will honour each ones trials and tribulations and thus will be rewarding them accordingly. Also consider this verse from Rev. 2:10.

"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."

4. The crown of righteousness: 2 Tim. 4:8. To those who love the appearing of Christ, who anxiously wait and look forward to the day when He will return for His saints. This crown is given to those who have lived a good and righteous life for God while living down here on earth.

First, if you are a believer you have been made righteous before God the Father as a result of Jesus dying on the cross for all of our sins. This means that the righteousness of Jesus has now been imputed to you.

Second is that it refers to us living a good and righteous life for God the Father with what time we have left down here. There are Christians who are righteous before God the Father as a result of being saved, called Justification, through the blood of Jesus Christ; but they are not living righteous lives in their actions, words and behaviours, called Sanctification. There are some people may be saved in God’s eyes, but who continue to do are still do evil works that the unsaved would do. We all have our flaws, weaknesses, and certain temptations that we may struggle with. It is not perfection but direction that God is looking for. The Bible says that, we all have sinned and have fallen way short of the glory of our God. We all know right from wrong! God just wants each one of us to choose to do the right thing when faced with certain temptations or choices to do something bad. When it is all said and done, these Christians will probably be receiving some of the greatest rewards that God can hand out once they enter into heaven. To live a righteous life for God will really be worth your while as you will definitely be given this crown by God Himself once you enter into heaven.

5. The crown of glory: 1 Pet. 5:1~4. This is the pastor’s crown and will be given to the ministers who faithfully feed the flock of God. . This probably could also include preachers, teachers, Sunday School teachers, missionaries and all those who teach the Word of God in their respective ministries. This crown may signify the importance and sacrifices of bringing up others into the ways of God. God wants those who are saved to grow and learn as much as they can about Him, His Son and His Holy Spirit and to do that he uses mature believers who are willing to each others.

God can use you to teach and shepherd others. God shows you the extreme importance that He is placing on those who teach and preach the word. Being willing to teach and educate others after they are saved is one of the greatest things you can do for them this side of heaven.

As you can see each crown is given to those who do a good work on His behalf and these we will place at the feet of Jesus when we face Him face to face.

Rev. 4:10,11 the twenty–four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying: You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honour and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created."

Rev 22:12 "Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done.

OK, to finish up, let's review the letter one more time:

Rev 2:8 "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write,

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."'

So, what is the “second death?” It's explained later in Revelation:

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

Rev 20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God,[fn3] and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. 14 Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.

Rev 21:7 "He who overcomes shall inherit all things,[fn4] and I will be his God and he shall be My son. 8 "But the cowardly, unbelieving,[fn5] abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."

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