Revelation 2:1-11
Wednesday, 17 July 2024
…These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: “I know your works,….” -Revelation 2:8-9
Revelations chapters 2&3 contain the messages of the Lord Jesus Christ to the seven churches which were existent in that period but also representing churches down the centuries. In each of the seven messages, a unique characteristic of Christ is revealed and to each church, the Lord says, “I know your works…” Our key verse pertains to the church in Smyrna.
Smyrna was a big wealthy port city in the Mediterranean. The church in Smyrna illustrates the suffering church and the comfort it needs. The “myr” in Smyrna gives hint of a common perfume and so when this church went through suffering, their faith was like a sweet smelling perfume before God. A few things the Lord says He knows about them:
· Tribulation: This church went through Roman persecution because of their faith. Trials and tribulations are part and parcel of Christian life. Acts 14:22 reminds us “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”
· Poverty: Though these Christians were poor, they were commended for their richness in faith! James 2: 5: “Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?” Our life isn’t measured on the wealth of this world but our relationship with Christ. Though I may be poor, I am rich in Christ!
· The blasphemy they received: The Jews threw accusations at the Christians during that time and were referred to as the ‘synagogue of Satan’ as they were persecuting them. It is common for believers to be the target of false accusations and threats for the sake of the Lord Jesus. Though we may feel disheartened for a time, it strengthens us when we know our Lord passed through similar situations.
· The upcoming persecution: The reference to ten days of tribulation may refer to what the church would have to go through for a limited period. The Lord knows what each of us pass through and we are confident that our future is secure in Him. 2Cor.4:17 reassures us while we go through tough times: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory…”
Thus poverty, persecution, accusations are not the focus of our lives but the greater glory of the Lord worked through our lives in all of these situations.
Now the Lord’s encouragement to the church in Smyrna is for us too:
· Do not fear: The Lord told them not to allow fear to grip them in all of the trials they were facing. The Lord who is eternal and one who lives forever carries them in His hand. The scheme of the devil to corner you and put you in the grip of fear and make you do things contrary to the will of God and the Word of God. Let us take victory today through Christ not to succumb to fear. The Lord who knows you is with you!
· Be faithful: The Lord tells them to be faithful till the end. The changing world we live in makes us feel things are falling apart. But we have to be faithful. There is no retirement age in the Kingdom of God. Whether we go through trials, or people accuse, hurl insults or Satan takes away material possessions, or takes the lives of some—stand firm till the end. For we know when the Lord comes back, we will reign with Him for a thousand years!
· Promise for the Overcomers: Often when we go through tough times, we ask why the suffering. But as believers, we are exhorted to look to Christ: “For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.” (Heb.12:3). To the faithful, the Lord promises the crown of life. The overcomers have the guarantee of entry into heaven.
Dear brother/sister, the Lord has a purpose for your life- no matter what situations you pass through. Do not fear- you are in His hand. Be faithful to the Lord and His work. The Lord who knows you will preserve you!
Think on: “He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.” (Rev.2:11)
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