Faithfulness and Hope Amidst Persecution: The Message to Smyrna
Summary
### Summary
This week has been remarkable as God's name has been praised widely, reminding us of His sovereignty and control. As we delve into the book of Revelation, we see that Christ's message to the churches is one of comfort and encouragement amidst persecution. Last week, we discussed how Jesus, like a secret shopper, inspected the churches and found issues in five out of seven. Today, we focus on the church of Smyrna, one of the two churches with no "trash" in their spiritual lives.
Smyrna was a wealthy and influential city, yet its Christian community faced severe persecution, poverty, and slander. Jesus reassured them by identifying with their suffering, reminding them that He too was crucified but rose again. He encouraged them to remain confident and faithful despite their trials. The believers in Smyrna were under immense pressure, facing economic ruin, imprisonment, and even death for their faith. Jesus acknowledged their tribulation, poverty, and the blasphemy they endured, urging them to stay strong.
One of the most poignant examples of faithfulness from Smyrna is Polycarp, who refused to deny Christ even when threatened with death. His steadfastness serves as a powerful testimony of unwavering faith. Jesus promised the believers in Smyrna a crown of life if they remained faithful, even unto death. This crown is a special reward for those who endure extreme persecution and martyrdom for their faith.
Jesus also assured them that those who overcome will not be harmed by the second death, which is eternal separation from God. This promise underscores the importance of remaining faithful and focused on Christ, regardless of the trials we face. The message to Smyrna is a call to all believers to stand firm in their faith, knowing that God's grace is sufficient for every trial and that He will reward our faithfulness.
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Sovereignty and Control: The events of this week remind us that God is in control, even when the world seems chaotic. The book of Revelation assures us that in the end, God wins, and His sovereignty is unchallenged. This should comfort us in times of uncertainty and persecution. [01:07]
2. Faithfulness Amidst Persecution: The church of Smyrna faced severe persecution, yet they remained faithful. Jesus acknowledged their suffering and encouraged them to stay strong. This teaches us that our faith should not waver in the face of trials, as God is with us and understands our struggles. [09:09]
3. The Promise of the Crown of Life: Jesus promised a crown of life to those who remain faithful even unto death. This special reward is for those who endure extreme persecution and martyrdom for their faith. It reminds us that our faithfulness will be rewarded in eternity. [19:18]
4. Overcoming the Second Death: Jesus assured the believers that those who overcome will not be harmed by the second death, which is eternal separation from God. This promise highlights the importance of maintaining our faith and trust in Christ, as it secures our eternal destiny. [23:33]
5. God's Sufficient Grace: In times of weakness and trial, God's grace is sufficient for us. The Apostle Paul reminds us that God's power is made perfect in our weakness. This encourages us to rely on God's strength and grace to stand firm in our faith, no matter what challenges we face. [34:41]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:07] - God's Sovereignty in Revelation
[02:01] - Jesus as the Secret Shopper
[03:00] - The Church of Smyrna
[03:56] - Prayer for Guidance
[05:47] - The City of Smyrna
[06:57] - Christianity in Smyrna
[08:00] - Jesus' Message to Smyrna
[09:09] - Acknowledging Suffering and Poverty
[10:46] - Economic and Social Persecution
[12:23] - Jesus' Encouragement
[13:14] - The Reality of Persecution
[15:14] - Historical Persecution and Polycarp
[18:32] - Promises to the Faithful
[23:33] - Overcoming the Second Death
[27:33] - The Cost of Faithfulness
[29:12] - Historical and Modern Persecution
[34:41] - God's Grace in Weakness
[36:23] - Living Faithfully
[38:08] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Revelation 2:8-11
2. James 1:12
3. 2 Corinthians 12:9
#### Observation Questions
1. What were the three main challenges faced by the church of Smyrna as mentioned in Revelation 2:9? ([09:09])
2. How did Jesus describe Himself in His message to the church of Smyrna? ([08:00])
3. What promise did Jesus give to those who remain faithful even unto death? ([19:18])
4. Who was Polycarp, and what was his significance to the church of Smyrna? ([16:07])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus chose to identify with the suffering of the church of Smyrna by reminding them of His own death and resurrection? ([08:00])
2. How does the promise of the "crown of life" in Revelation 2:10-11 relate to the trials faced by the believers in Smyrna? ([19:18])
3. What does it mean to overcome the "second death," and why is this significant for believers? ([23:33])
4. How does the example of Polycarp's faithfulness challenge modern believers in their own faith journeys? ([16:07])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt under pressure or faced persecution for your faith. How did you respond, and what can you learn from the church of Smyrna's example? ([09:09])
2. Jesus assured the believers in Smyrna that they were rich in heavenly goods despite their earthly poverty. How can you shift your focus from earthly wealth to spiritual richness in your daily life? ([09:09])
3. Polycarp remained faithful even unto death. What steps can you take to strengthen your faith so that you can stand firm in the face of trials and persecution? ([16:07])
4. The sermon mentioned that God's grace is sufficient in times of weakness. Identify a current struggle in your life and discuss how you can rely on God's grace to overcome it. ([34:41])
5. How can you actively remind yourself of God's sovereignty and control, especially during times of uncertainty and chaos? ([01:07])
6. The church of Smyrna was commended for having no "trash" in their spiritual lives. What "trash" might you need to remove from your life to be more faithful and pleasing to God? ([03:00])
7. Jesus promised that those who overcome will not be harmed by the second death. How does this promise impact your perspective on eternal life and your daily walk with Christ? ([23:33])
Devotional
### Day 1: God's Unchallenged Sovereignty
Description:
In times of chaos and uncertainty, it is crucial to remember that God is sovereign and in control. The book of Revelation provides a powerful reminder that despite the turmoil and persecution believers may face, God's ultimate victory is assured. This assurance should bring comfort and peace, knowing that God's plans and purposes will prevail. The events of this week have highlighted the importance of praising God's name and recognizing His supreme authority over all creation. This understanding helps us to trust in His divine plan, even when circumstances seem dire. [01:07]
Bible passage:
"Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,’" (Isaiah 46:9-10, ESV).
Reflection:
Think about a current situation in your life that feels out of control. How can you remind yourself of God's sovereignty and trust in His ultimate plan today?
### Day 2: Faithfulness Amidst Persecution
Description:
The church of Smyrna faced severe persecution, yet they remained steadfast in their faith. Jesus acknowledged their suffering, poverty, and the slander they endured, encouraging them to stay strong. This teaches us that our faith should not waver in the face of trials, as God is with us and understands our struggles. The believers in Smyrna were under immense pressure, facing economic ruin, imprisonment, and even death for their faith. Despite these challenges, they held firm to their beliefs, serving as an example for all Christians to remain faithful regardless of the circumstances. [09:09]
Bible passage:
"Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived." (2 Timothy 3:12-13, ESV).
Reflection:
Consider a time when your faith was tested. How did you respond, and what can you do to strengthen your faith in the face of future challenges?
### Day 3: The Promise of the Crown of Life
Description:
Jesus promised a crown of life to those who remain faithful even unto death. This special reward is for those who endure extreme persecution and martyrdom for their faith. The crown of life symbolizes eternal reward and recognition from God for unwavering faithfulness. The story of Polycarp, a faithful believer from Smyrna who refused to deny Christ even when threatened with death, serves as a powerful testimony of steadfast faith. This promise reminds us that our faithfulness will be rewarded in eternity, encouraging us to persevere through trials and tribulations. [19:18]
Bible passage:
"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him." (James 1:12, ESV).
Reflection:
Reflect on the concept of the "crown of life." What does it mean to you personally, and how does it motivate you to remain faithful in your daily walk with Christ?
### Day 4: Overcoming the Second Death
Description:
Jesus assured the believers in Smyrna that those who overcome will not be harmed by the second death, which is eternal separation from God. This promise underscores the importance of maintaining our faith and trust in Christ, as it secures our eternal destiny. The second death represents the final judgment and eternal separation from God for those who do not believe. By remaining faithful, believers are promised eternal life with God, free from the fear of eternal separation. This assurance encourages us to stay focused on Christ and His promises, regardless of the trials we face. [23:33]
Bible passage:
"The one who conquers will have this heritage, and I will be his God and he will be my son. But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death." (Revelation 21:7-8, ESV).
Reflection:
How does the promise of overcoming the second death influence your perspective on current struggles and temptations? What steps can you take to ensure your faith remains strong?
### Day 5: God's Sufficient Grace
Description:
In times of weakness and trial, God's grace is sufficient for us. The Apostle Paul reminds us that God's power is made perfect in our weakness. This encourages us to rely on God's strength and grace to stand firm in our faith, no matter what challenges we face. The believers in Smyrna experienced severe persecution, yet they were encouraged to remain confident and faithful, knowing that God's grace would sustain them. This message is a powerful reminder that we do not face our trials alone; God's grace is always available to support and strengthen us. [34:41]
Bible passage:
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV).
Reflection:
Identify an area in your life where you feel weak or inadequate. How can you rely on God's grace to find strength and overcome this weakness today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "He says, and I know not only your suffering, but I know your poverty. He says, but I want you to know something. You are rich. Now, if you looked at a lot of them, they weren't rich in the earth's goods. But he said, I want you to know you're rich in heavenly goods and in eternity." [09:09] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Remember, God never promised us anything. He said, you're going to have an easy life. As a matter of fact, over and over again, Christ said, you're going to have problems down here. Especially if you stand for me, there are going to be people that won't understand you and won't appreciate you, and they may even badmouth you." [13:14] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "He says, but if you remain faithful, even when facing death. I will give you the crown of life, anyone. And then this, this is a cool statement because you hear this said several times, anyone with ears to hear. In other words, if you can hear and understand and believe this message, he says, then you must listen to the spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches." [19:18] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So what Christ is trying to say to these people is, hey, keep your eyes on Christ. Keep your focus on Jesus so that you'll always be wanting to do what, just as you have done so far, Smyrna, you've done it right. Keep it up. Be confident. Don't lose your confidence because this persecution, this poverty, this slander could cause you to get your eyes off the Lord and get them on yourself and your situation here on earth and cause you to start forgetting that God is always with you." [15:14] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So Lord, help us to be people who love you with a love that's so confident in you that it can just be given away to other people. And may that enable us to be like a light that shines in darkness in the city of West Des Moines and Des Moines and this whole state. Thank you for how good you've been." [37:33] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "And so the believers in Smyrna needed to hear how Jesus is the eternal one who died, but rose victoriously and lives eternally. So what Jesus is really saying in that scripture is this. He was saying, no matter how beaten down you feel, remember something. I was crucified. I was crucified, but I came back to life again, and so will you. In other words, be confident, Smyrna. Don't lose your confidence in me, your trust in me, because I know what you're going through." [08:00] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "And Polycarp made this statement, why delay? Bring what you will. And so Polycarp was burned at the stake for his faith in Jesus Christ, right in the middle of that agora that you saw. And the people were all gathered around watching as they burned him alive. The history books tell us the flames didn't go away. They didn't kill him. And so they finally had to stab him to death. And the history books also say, whether it's true or whether it's folklore, that while he was burning, he was singing a song of praise to his God." [17:30] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And Jesus says, if and when it ever comes, know something. If you stand firm. I've got a reward for you. For you who stand firm in testing and trials, I've got a reward for you. Don't give up. Don't lose heart. Don't turn away your focus from the source of your strength and your power and your life. And if you do, if you stay focused on him, I will give you a crown of life." [22:38] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And Jesus was with them there. And Jesus was with Daniel in the lion's den. And Jesus was with Samson. And Jesus was with the people in Smyrna, with Polycarp, as they stood. I want you to know there may be persecution for us someday. And we don't like to talk about it. You hardly ever hear a sermon about persecution." [29:12] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And so, as I was finishing off this lesson, I was thinking to myself, would I be faithful to death? If today, someone locked the doors of this church, and they came down to the front, and they pushed me aside, and they had erected a gallows or a guillotine out in the parking lot, and they started going around to every one of us. This has happened over and over and over again through history. It's happening even today in places on this earth where people are standing firm for their faith." [32:51] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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