Exiled to the island of Patmos, around A.D. 95, John received a revelation from an angel of Christ which he was commanded to write down and share it with the seven churches in Asia.
Previously, Christ spoke to John through a vision that included seven candlesticks which represent the seven churches in Asia, Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. The first church mentioned to John was Ephesus, which Jesus described as having become loveless, and He warned the Ephesians they should repent or face God’s wrath.
“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.” (Revelation 2:8-9)
Smyrna was a port city on the Aegean Sea, about thirty-five miles northwest of Ephesus. Jesus identifies Himself as the First and the Last, the One who was resurrected from the dead and the source of the revelation to John. Now, Christ acknowledges the good works of those as Smyrna as well as the afflictions upon the fellowship. The Lord also mentions their financial struggle, common among devoted Christians and points out that by their faith, their wealth is in Heaven.
Then, Jesus mentions a sect of blasphemers posing as Jews, who were not of the chose bloodline but in fact, hypocrites serving under Satan instead of Yahweh, the God of Israel.
“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.” (Revelation 2:10)
Jesus warns believers in Smyrna of suffering to come brought on by the enemy who would imprison them, which would serve as a test of their faith and dedication for a period of ten days. To give those at Smyrna hope, the Lord promises to deliver those who are in Him through the gift of eternal 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.”’ (Revelation 2:11)
Through the pen of John, Jesus states that only those in Him will understand the words written in His revelation, and that those who place their faith in Him will inherit a place in Heaven, and avoid the second death, the place called Hell where suffering, agony and pain reign forever. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant John,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through your revelation delivered by your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com
