The church at Smyrna, addressed in Revelation 2:8–11, is the second of the seven churches in Asia Minor to receive a message from Jesus. Unlike many of the other churches, Smyrna receives no rebuke, only encouragement and affirmation. Let’s dive into the message to Smyrna and explore its significance.
Background on Smyrna
Smyrna was an affluent city known for its loyalty to Rome and its thriving economy. It was also a center for emperor worship, where Roman emperors were venerated as gods, creating a challenging environment for Christians who worshiped Christ alone. Smyrna was home to a strong Jewish community that often opposed the Christian message, intensifying the persecution against the believers there.
Revelation 2:8-11 — Jesus’ Message to the Church at Smyrna
1. Description of Jesus (Verse 8)
“These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again.”
- Jesus introduces Himself as the eternal “First and the Last,” emphasizing His power over life and death.
- This is particularly comforting to the Smyrnan believers, who face persecution and the threat of death. Jesus’ victory over death serves as a reminder that they too can overcome.
2. Commendation (Verse 9)
“I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.”
- Afflictions and Poverty: The Smyrnans experienced extreme hardship and poverty, likely due to economic persecution where their refusal to worship the emperor led to social ostracism and loss of income.
- Rich in Faith: Despite their physical poverty, Jesus declares them spiritually rich. This underscores that their faithfulness and spiritual treasures surpass material wealth.
- Slander and Opposition: Jesus acknowledges the slander from those claiming to be Jews but calls them a “synagogue of Satan,” indicating that their actions oppose God’s purposes and persecute His people.
3. Exhortation and Warning (Verse 10)
“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”
- Encouragement in Suffering: Jesus warns of impending suffering, yet instructs them not to fear. The “ten days” could symbolize a limited time of persecution or a short, intense period of trial.
- Faithfulness unto Death: Jesus encourages the believers to remain faithful even if it costs them their lives. This call to endurance is a reminder that their suffering is temporary, and their reward is eternal.
- Promise of the Victor’s Crown: For those who remain faithful, Jesus promises the “crown of life.” This crown is not a royal diadem but a victor’s wreath, symbolizing triumph and eternal life. This promise would be especially meaningful to Smyrna, a city known for athletic competitions where victors received crowns.
4. Promise to the Overcomer (Verse 11)
“Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.”
- The Second Death: The second death refers to eternal separation from God (Revelation 20:14). Jesus assures that those who overcome will not experience this eternal death but will instead share in everlasting life with Him.
- Victory Over Death: This promise reassures the Smyrnans that even if they face physical death, they are safe from eternal death. It strengthens their resolve to remain faithful amidst persecution.
Lessons from the Church at Smyrna
- Spiritual Wealth over Material Wealth: Smyrna exemplifies that true wealth is measured by faith, not possessions. Jesus calls them rich despite their poverty, affirming that their spiritual inheritance is greater than worldly wealth.
- Enduring Persecution with Courage: Jesus does not promise to deliver Smyrna from suffering but encourages them to endure it. This message underscores the reality that following Christ may involve suffering, yet believers are called to remain steadfast, trusting in His promise of eternal life.
- Living for Eternal Rewards: The “crown of life” is an assurance that their sacrifices and struggles are not in vain. By focusing on eternal rewards rather than temporary struggles, Christians can find strength to persevere.
- Victory over the Fear of Death: Jesus’ victory over death offers hope to those who face mortal danger. The assurance that believers will not face the “second death” allows them to face earthly trials with courage, knowing their eternity is secure.
Summary
The message to Smyrna is one of encouragement and hope, given to a church that faced intense persecution. By focusing on Christ, who conquered death and offers eternal life, the Smyrnan believers are reminded of their ultimate reward. This message still resonates for those who face hardship, encouraging steadfast faith and reminding us that true victory lies beyond earthly trials.