Revelation 2:8-11 | To The Church in Smyrna

The last book of the Bible, The Revelation of Jesus Christ, is meant to motivate and equip us to be mature disciples of Jesus. Last week, we learned about the first of the proclamations to the seven churches: If the great Ephesian church was to let its light shine in the world, its sound teaching must also be manifested in works of love. This week, we learn about the proclamation to the church in Smyrna. Unlike Ephesus, the church in Smyrna receives no rebuke from the risen Jesus. Instead, it is called to maintain its witness in the face of suffering. It is called to face persecution with faithfulness and without fear. Through the church in Smyrna, we learn that true Christianity does conquer—even to the point of death. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.