He begins this like He did the last letter and every letter afterward with the words, I know. He knows everything. I do not want to simply stand there. Well, the second thing we need to remember is that the ultimate test is suffering. How does this ruin a church? A Russian no" for the rights and freedoms" of the Ukrainian people in the 18th century (1) This article is devoted to the policy of the tsarist authorities against the Ukrainian territories which were part of the Russian Empire in the 18th century. What Is the Abomination of Desolation in the End Times? We would always leave and say, you know I want that kind of relationship with God! Myrrh represents mortal death, and the title of the "suffering church" is often ascribed the . 5. But, Jesus reminded them that they were poor here on this earth but you are so rich. Their businesses were shut down. martyr, one who voluntarily suffers death rather than deny their religion by words or deeds; such action is afforded special, institutionalized recognition in most major religions of the world. 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The 2 nd century Church bishop and . It was exceptionally wealthy. Let me tell you one other thing. Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. He does not want you to go deeper in Gods Word. Which attributes of God most comfort you in the midst of trials and why? 4. It was one of the chief cities of Roman-dominated Asia and competed with places such as Pergamos and Ephesus for the title "First City of Asia." It was like the Word just pierced my heart. Even if these believers face death at the hand of the persecutors, it is not the end for them. As believers, we should expect persecution and suffering in this life. It is not mentioned anywhere else in the Bible other than these four verses, but it is believed it is with the other churches that were founded while Paul spent two years in Ephesus on his third missionary journey. It was probably only 15 minutes, but it seemed like hours. Such was the case for the ancient church at Smyrna. in Christian Education with a focus on Women's Ministry from Dallas Theological Seminary. We try to go it alone when Christ is beckoning us to trust in Him, go His Way, and give our fears to Him. Father, I pray that we would be people who suffer well, who would please you in a way that we handle anything that comes up. The Message to the Church at Smyrna. . I had decided how I was going to handle this. I think it is a way to deal with stress in the operating room. How does 2 Corinthians 6:10; 8:9 and James 2:5 shed light on this? And whenever we do, the vision of Jesus standing among us in all His glory, and the words of promise He speaks, will sustain and guide us.7, I hope you all have had a great week studying about suffering. Third, at the end of Smyrnas letter, Jesus makes this promise to whoever has ears to hear: He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death (Revelation 2:11, KJV). I believe it is something so horrible that it is hard to describe in words. When fear grips the human heart, and our very life is threatened, nothing can bring tranquility like faith in Him who is both the first and the last.3. The pressure came with these students. So, there will be attacks on us to not study this Word, to not do this. He just came in. He is not referring to eternal life here because you do not work for eternal life. That is a way of worshipping Him, showing honor to Him. Is there sin in my life for which confession and repentance is needed? 6. It went on and on. Do not let him use you. While there, the Holy Spirit spoke to John and instructed him to record everything Jesus was about to reveal via a vision. How is it possible to not fear impending tribulation and suffering? 3. She came in and I said, Good morning, how are you doing? Smyrna was a seaport city about 35 miles north of Ephesus. When we go through the troubles of life, we can either take shelter in Him or seek to go it alone in our fears and pride. So, I would go to these dinners hating it because all they would do was just drink and drink. Specific Messages to 7 Churches of Revelation Some of these seven churches kept closer to the gospel than others. What it tells us about Smyrna and its Christians has big implications for us today. Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22) Perhaps the most well-known of the seven letters addresses the church in Laodicea. Finally, Jesus warns His people to expect more suffering, persecution, and testing. 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Sermon on Revelation 2:8-11 - The Church Of Smyrna - Study and Obey In between were the temples of Apollo, Asklepios, and Aphrodite. But believers need not to fear death, because it will only result in their receiving a crown of life. I have felt his warfare. He always will exist. Smyrna was a church where people's agendas were in opposition to Christ's. Anyone who has said I cannot earn salvation on my own so I put my faith in the blood of Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for my sins. Then, I got my purse and I drove home. They had no food. Some suffered the Roman crucifixion, a horrible way to die. Why are these blaspheming Jews referred to as a synagogue of Satan? As a matter of fact, He promises us that if you are a believer, you will face suffering and you will have some persecution in your life (2 Tim. I was so bitter. Kingdom 103: What Gospel Are You Preaching? They are for us to give back to Him. The members of the Smyrna church, though, are facing persecution because they are more focused on what God thinks than what man thinks. The application is that a dead or dying church with faithful, Christ-empowered people can be resurrected. The first death means when we physically die and then go into eternity for rewards and to wait for the resurrection and the everlasting life. They were a synagogue of Satan because they were attacking the church. The Bible notes that slanderous accusations by Jews against Christians had led to Christian persecution by Roman authorities (Acts 14:2, 19: Acts 17:13). Christ not only knew their hearts, but He spoke to this flock using language and terms that held deep personal meaning for them. What three things did Jesus mention that He was aware of concerning the church at Smyrna? My human flesh cries out and I will do everything I can to avoid it. Most American Christians today will not be called to die a martyrs death. And He genuinely cares about what happens to His children. But, maybe there are some of you who are in a very difficult season of life. The Church of Smyrna: A Study of Revelations - A Beautiful Mess Perhaps there are people in the church who are just trying to make life hard for you, but they are not really your enemy. The Cross And Separation From The World (1 Peter 4:1-6), 7. Be on guard. 3. He is with us fully. It is like going to a birthday party without a present to give to the host. Much of Smyrnas social life revolved around pagan worship. Is there something difficult going on in your life today? So with that context in mind, let's take a look at Revelation 2: 8-11. 2007 - 2023 ChurchLeadership.Org - All Rights Reserved. In James 1:12, James write, Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love him. 2:8-11. What Scriptures come to your mind concerning this? We need to look beyond the trial. You will not worship the Roman emperor, then we will make you! c. Slanderings. They were despised. Garlands of victory were bestowed only to the highest achieving athletes. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. 2 Corinthians 4:4, http://www.churchleadership.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=43133&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0, http://www.churchleadership.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&url=10&view=post&articleid=43139&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0, http://www.churchleadership.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&url=10&view=post&articleid=43138&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0, http://www.churchleadership.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&url=10&view=post&articleid=43137&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0. She finally said, do you have anything you want to say? I said nope. I did not know what to say because I thought I knew I was going to cry. When Polycarp, the pastor of the church in Smyrna, was commanded to worship Caesar and renounce Christ in 155 A.D., he refused and said, Eighty and six years have I served Him, and in nothing hath He wronged me; and how, then, can I blaspheme my King, who saved me? As the fire was kindled around his feet to burn him at the stake, Polycarp was heard singing and praising the Son of God. How do our stubbornness, recklessness, and selfishness contribute to a church's dysfunction? 4. Smyrna was a church where people's agendas were in opposition to Christ's. They had sufferings to overcome and learn from, but most chose to run the course their way and tarnish His Way. I want that kind of depth. My exhortation for us with this is that we should be thankful. God is very much aware of all that is going on in your life and is not surprised by anything. How does the fact that Jesus knows your pain and feels your pain help you persevere in times of trials and confusion? The Eastern Orthodox Church, also called the Orthodox Church, officially the Orthodox . Do you want a cup of coffee? I am thinking, I do not know where that came from! I will tell you it was turning point because she did not say one more word to me negatively. Pt 2, Kingdom 104: Christianity Misrepresents the Kingdom Pt 1, Kingdom 104: Christianity Misrepresents the Kingdom Pt 2, Kingdom 104: A Focused Representative of the Kingdom, Kingdom 104: Where Are the Masculine-Thinking Men? I had a conversation Sunday morning before church with a good friend here. What did the future hold for the church at Smyrna and what would be the purpose? Among them, 347 clergymen of the Smyrna region and Metropolitan of Smyrna Chrysostomos were tortured and martyred. Is it fire, is it brimstone, is it gnashing of teeth? She also has two B.S. He never promises us that life is just going to be great. Property Reports > U.S. > Georgia > Cobb County > Smyrna > 30080 > Church St > 975 . How Are the End Times Described in 2 Timothy? Kingdom 102: Kingdom of Light or Darkness? As with all Jesuss letters to the seven churches, His letter to Smyrna ends on a note that invites every Believer, in every age, to hear and receive these important messages. Today, it is known as Izmir, Turkey. They despised and hated Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is Christ's presence on Earth, forever guiding and convicting to keep his followers on the right path. The third thing we need to remember is that the ultimate enemy is Satan. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND Smyrna was a proud Jesus wanted to encourage them to stand strong, even if it meant physical death. (How does Romans 2:28-29 relate to this? Kingdom 103: Honoring the Father Through the Son, Kingdom 103: Living in the Kingdom Culture, Kingdom 103: Power and Authority in His Name, Kingdom 103: Many Little Kingdoms, But Only One is True, Kingdom 103: Kingdom Citizens Are Examples. Before they lit the fire, he prayed, Oh Lord, almighty God, I thank you for counting me worthy of sharing the cup of Christ among the number of your martyrs. What was Jesus message to the church in Sardis in Revelation? Of course, all the other med techs are sitting there pretending like they were not listening. The second death is spending eternity in hell, separated from God forever. That is the idea. Because I was on staff here and was one of the instructors, I had to go to all the parties, all the festivities, and all the graduation dinners. What are some reasons God allows suffering in our lives? Father, I just thank you for the privilege of knowing you personally. The letter to the church at Smyrna is unique for several reasons. He will do anything to stop good things that God is doing. He was martyred for his faith in A.D. 156. It is believed that a man named Polycarp was the pastor of this church at Smyrna when this letter was written. We will throw you into prison until you do. Whether you interpret these ten days as referring to a literal 10 days (I take that view), or whether you interpret it as referring to just a brief period of time, or whether you interpret those 10 days as referring to 10 periods of persecution under 10 Roman emperors, the point being made is the same. Is there anything in your life that is causing you to be fearful? 6. How wonderful it would be if our church received an encouraging letter from Jesus, especially if it contained no criticism. You know that it is spiritual warfare where you get discouraged by things you hear said. Its association with death perfectly pictures the suffering church at Smyrna. But, if we are not faithful, there is no outstretched hand, only missed opportunities and an infamy to a community, a life wasted, a church of dysfunction, and a crown of shame instead of a crown of life. 19:20; 20:10-15). Q. How would Jesus words in Luke 12:4-7 encourage someone about to suffer for his faith? He just reminded them that what you have in Christ is far greater than anything on this earth materially that you will have. The first thing He tells them is be fearless. So, how is He involved in your church? 1.3 Orthodoxy. What does it mean to be faithful until death? Pt 2, The Unchanging Individual and the Unshakable Kingdom, In God's Kingdom, We Are Sons and Daughters, Not Servants, The Returning of the King and His Kingdom, The Birth of the Kingdom--Dominion Authority, The Experience of Living Under a Lord--Part 1, The Experience of Living Under a Lord--Part 2, The Lord's Motivation for His Divine Creation, God's Priority and Assignment for Mankind, It is Just What it is, the Good News of the Kingdom Pt 1, It is Just What it is, the Good News of the Kingdom Pt 2, Kings, Prophets--All Are Representatives of the Kingdom, Keys to the Kingdom, Understanding Its Concept, The Bible is the Constitution of God's Kingdom, Kingdom Perspective: The Eternal Message Pt 2, Christianity, a Religion, vs Kingdom Government, The Government of Man Vs the Kingdom of God Pt 1, The Government of Man Vs the Kingdom of God Pt 2, The Government of Man Vs the Kingdom of God Pt 3, Condemning is Not Our Responsibility Pt 2, Diluting the Kingdom Message While Being Deceived, Believers Who Are Blinded, Distracted and Deceived, Believers Who Are Blinded, Distracted and Deceived Pt 2, He Rules and Reigns: Citizenship in Kingdom Government, Only One Culture, One Mindset and One Spirit, The World Loves its Own, But We Belong to Him, Your Eternal Future Hinges on His Promise, Mankind's Refusal to Answer to His Creator, Kingdom 101: The Spirit of Dominion Part 1, Kingdom 101: The Spirit of Dominion Pt 2, Kingdom 101: Disobedience Is an Act of Treason, Kingdom 101: The Lord God Promised a Kingdom, Kingdom 101: His Intent of the Original Kingdom, Kingdom 101: We Are Government Citizens, Not Religious Members, Kingdom 101: Your Relationship or Your Religion, Kingdom 101: He Rules the Visible World From the Invisible Realm, Kingdom 101: He is the King of the Invisible and Visible Worlds, Kingdom 101: You--Mankind--Were Created to Rule, Kingdom 101: The Lord God's Contract with Man, Kingdom 101: Born to Rule, Not to be Ruled or Controlled, Kingdom 101: Man Shall Manage Earth, It's the King's Law, Kingdom 101: Man Shall Manage Earth, It's the King's Law Pt 2, Kingdom 101: The Lord God Requires a Body, Kingdom 101: Building a Kingdom Mentality, Kingdom 101: New Birth, But Not Converted, Kingdom 101: A Complete Change of Mentality, Kingdom 101: Making Preparations for the King, Kingdom 101: Making Preparation for the King Pt 2, Kingdom 101: Making Preparation for the King Pt 3, Kingdom 101: The Essence of a Kingdom and Its King, Kingdom 102: Honoring His Son in the Kingdom, Kingdom 102: A Kingdom Focus on the Beatitudes, Kingdom 102: Staying Focused on His Word in Time of Conflict, Kingdom 102: Setting Priorities While Living in Two Kingdoms, Kingdom 102: Characteristic of Kingdom Culture, Kingdom 102: Citizens Represent Their Kingdom and Culture, Kingdom 102: Kingdom Government Principles, Kingdom 102: The Kingdom Government and the Republic, Kingdom 102: Carrying Out the King's Policies and Principles, Kingdom 102: Fusing a Kingdom With a Democracy, Kingdom 102: Information: Knowledge From the King, Kingdom 102: Information--Knowledge From the King Pt 2, Kingdom 102: Knowledge is Very Important, Kingdom 102: Seek the Kingdom, Encourage One Another, Kingdom 102: Seek the Kingdom, A Divine Command. This is the letter to the second church: the church of Smyrna. We can have confidence as believers that we will spend eternity with God and not face the second death. More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free! He knows the suffering that you are going through. The fragrance from Myrrh is only released from the sap through crushing. Called: Jude 1-4. So, I went into her office, which was at the back of the lab. If they sought praise from menif they wanted to please the people around themthey would not be so readily targeted for persecution. They had no love for God. 3. Kingdom 103: Student or Disciple of the Kingdom? 1. Others were taken to the Coliseum and fed to angry, hungry lions. Most of us will never die for our faith and I hope we do not. Annette Marie Griffin is an award-winning author and speaker who has managed and directed childrens and youth programs for more than 20 years. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. That is all they have done, but your spiritual life continues on forever. Christianity.com is a member of the Salem Web Network of sites including: Copyright 2023, Christianity.com. I was kind of scared. 4 MacArthur, New Testament Commentary, 71. For instance, telling them that they were practicing cannibalism because they were partaking of the Lords Supper, eating of the body of Christ, drinking His blood. He does not want you to know that Jesus wins and that he loses. Copyright 2002-2023 Got Questions Ministries. What was Jesus message to the church in Laodicea in Revelation. The trade unions would have nothing to do with them. In Him, we are more than overcomers. They already were in the midst of tribulation (v. 9) and Jesus had no rebuke or condemnation for them. Also, death is mentioned three times in these four verses. I have felt it in my life whether it is just things that people say right before I get ready to teach or whether it is something that happens in preparation. Why do we do it? Why would this description of Christ be especially encouraging for this church? Today it is called Izmir, Turkey. What does He mean when he refers to their being rich in the midst of poverty? Second death. 7 Churches of Revelation: What Do They Signify? - Learn Religions Do you fear God more than people? What two instructions did Jesus give them concerning the upcoming tribulation? Be hopeful. (NASB). from A.D. c. 100-316; Pergamos (Revelation 2:12-17), 'where Satan dwells' is suggestive of the church mixing with the world . She began to just blast me for my faith. They cannot coexist. Be thankful that He did this that He died for us. Even though the people would throw them into prison, it says the devil is about to cast some of you into prison. He is the ultimate enemy and we need to be on guard. As a result, the Smyrnaean believers lived in genuine poverty for their faith. Of the seven churches, Smyrna is one of two that received no reproof from Jesus, and it is the only church of the seven that still exists today, After His ascension, Rome became increasingly hostile toward Jesuss followers. Smyrna is still a large seaport with the present population of about 275,000 people. Oct 04, 2021 41:20. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 3. Throughout history, Smyrna has suffered its fair share of hardship. If someone slanders you, what do you do? What was Jesus message to the church in Pergamum in Revelation? (Ephesians 1 is a good reminder of our riches in Christ.). St. Polycarp | Biography, Apostolic Father, Writings, Martyrdom Like myrrh, produced by crushing a fragrant plant, the church at Smyrna, crushed by persecution, gave off a fragrant aroma of faithfulness to God.2. I know what it is like to face death at their hands. Learn more about the rapture, the anti-christ, bible prophecy and the tribulation with articles that explain Biblical truths. You know, none of us will probably be persecuted for our faith any worse than that. It was used to embalm the dead in the first century (Jn. Every time that God has taken me through a difficult period of life, whether it is just a trial or suffering, I can always look back after it is over and go, yes, Lord, I see how You used that in my life. 1.4 . God knows and He cares for you. Christians are not exempt from suffering. Look at Revelation 2:8 with me, And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life, says this: (NASB). All Christians cannot stand on their own feet and you could not do this if you had to. An aspect of maturity is being slow to respond to accusation-as our Lord did. Undoubtedly, the church of Smyrna could have justified any syncretistic actions to preserve their livelihood and lives by proof texted scripture or by claiming that their compromise was for the greater good of tolerance, love, and grace. 1. Absolutely nothing is hidden from our all-knowing, all-seeing God. At first, the emperors did not want anything to do with it, but by the time Domitian became the Roman emperor, he made it mandatory that all citizens would worship the emperor or face death. What was Jesus' message to the church in Smyrna in Revelation? After introducing the first vision, John is commanded to write a letter to seven churches. But, the word used here means absolute poverty, possessing absolutely nothing. They were not poor. She is so right. What was Jesus message to the church in Ephesus in Revelation? The letter to the church at Smyrna in Revelation 2 is notable for many reasons, one being that it's one of the only letters that doesn't have a rebuke. How did you handle the situation? The challenge for us is to suffer well. I went home that night and I got angrier the more I thought about it. I just thought, you have no idea.. It was celebrated for its schools of science and medicine, and for its handsome buildings. (8) Revelation 2:8 - "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 afflictions and your povertyyet you are rich! 105 views, 1 likes, 1 loves, 0 comments, 2 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from Buncombe Baptist Church Lexington: Welcome to the home of Intentional. We Were Created to Inhabit This Earth Part 1, We Were Created to Inhabit This Earth Part 2, Kingdom 102: The Kingdom of God is Relevant, Kingdom 102: Knowing How to Apply the Kingdom Concept, Kingdom 103: He Needs No Assistance in Keeping His Promise, Kingdom 103: Seven Last Days Churches and Their Believers' Characteristics, Kingdom 103: Reconsidering the End Times, Kingdom 104: Misrepresenting the Kingdom Gospel. Kingdom 103: The Kingdom Mindset of Authority, Kingdom 103: Ephesus, Its Believers' Characteristics, Kingdom 103: Ephesus, Its Believers' Characteristics Pt 2, Kingdom 103: Smyrna, Its Believers' Characteristics, Kingdom 103: Pergamos, The Compromising Church, Kingdom 103: Thyatira, Its Believers' Characteristics, Kingdom 103: Thyatira, Its Believers' Characteristics Pt 2, Kingdom 103: Sardis, Its Believers' Characteristics, Kingdom 103: Philadelphia, Its Believers' Characteristics, Kingdom 103: Philadelphia, Its Believers' Characteristics Pt 2, Kingdom 103: Laodicea, The Lukewarm Church, Kingdom 103: He Came Under the Cloak of Darkness, Kingdom 103: Authorized Power for the Heavenly Government, Kingdom 103: Never Assume in Marriage Pt 1, Kingdom 103: Never Assume in Marriage Pt 2, Kingdom 103: Love in Marriage Needs to be Refreshed, Kingdom 103: Fatherlessness, the Source of Disobedience and Sin, Kingdom 103: The Simplicity of the Kingdom Gospel, Kingdom 103: Kingdom Culture Displayed to the Blind. May I be accepted this day before you as an acceptable sacrifice. They lit the fire, but strangely enough, the wind blew the fire away from his body so it would not touch him. We would be amazed at their love for God and just the depth of their walk with him. The letter to the church at Smyrna is unique for several reasons. I would leave every night saying, God, why do I have to go to these events? because I did not feel like I was having a witness. Their poverty was most likely due to their faith in Jesus Christ, just like the Christians in Ephesus that we talked about last week. Christians were viewed as antisocial elitists for refusing to participate in it. What season of life are you in today? 3:12). Its system of coinage was old, and now about the city coins of every period are found. Many believe that this church represents the martyrs of all the ages and the sweet-smelling fragrance of their faithfulness until death. Give it to the Lord, trust His hand, and look ahead to the blessings that await you eternally.
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