“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants - things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John.” Revelation 1:1

Things to remember as we study:  Revelation is a book of signs and symbols. It is the Bible’s “picture book” in that the message is found in the visions.  Revelation was written to help Christians in the First Century who were suffering for their faith.

The City of Smyrna Pop. 100, miles N. of Ephesus Smyrna and Ephesus were called the “Eyes of Asia” Prosperous city with magnificent harbor Nothing known about the establishment of the church

Emperor Worship in Smyrna First city in Asia to erect a temple to goddess of Rome (195 BC). 26 AD, city authorized to build temple to Tiberius Caesar, making it a center for emperor worship. During reign of Domitian (81-96 AD), emperor worship became compulsory. Smyrna was noted for its persecution and martyrdom of Christians.

Letters to the Seven Churches Follow a Pattern 1.Identification 2.Commendation 3.Complaint 4.Counsel 5.Promise

Identification “…the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life” (v. 8). Jesus is greater and more powerful than anything they are will suffer. They will overcome through Him.

Commendation “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” (v. 9). Smyrna was a wealthy city, but the Christians there were poor. The Lord said they were rich in what counts – their faithfulness.

Complaint None Either the church had no fault that needed correction, or… Their suffering at the time was so severe that what they needed was encouragement.

Counsel “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…” (v. 10). They will have to face a short time of suffering, but they have nothing to fear.

Promise “…Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (v. 10). “…He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death” (v. 11). Be faithful even if it means death. The “second death” is Hell (20:14-15; 21:8).

We must not be discouraged by tribulation and persecution. “Do not fear” (2 Tim. 1:7). One may be poor by worldly standards, but rich in the eyes of the Lord. We can experience death once or twice. The choice is ours.