Second Church, Smyrna; Satan

Revelation 2:8-11. Jesus sends a message to the second of Seven Churches on the western coast of modern Turkey.

Some of you will be tested by time in prison or trials to the point of death. He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.

Smyrna, now called Izmir, is on the shore of the Aegean Sea and it is a rich city. About eighty kilometers, or fifty miles, south-east is the famous city of Ephesus, which is also near the coast.

The deceptions of Satan, the being first mentioned in Genesis 3:1, and his persecution of the true children of God, are acknowledged by God to this church, and it is commended for its works despite its difficulties with tribulation and poverty. To those who overcome is given the promise of a crown of life.

Background Reading:

The Letter to the Church in Smyrna -the 2nd Church

8 “To the messenger of the church in Smyrna, write:

‘The first and the last, who was dead and became alive, says this:

9 ‘I know your suffering and your poverty—though you are rich—and the slander committed by those who claim to be Jews but are not. They are the synagogue of Satan. 10 Don’t be afraid of what you are going to suffer. Look! The devil is going to throw some of you into prison so that you may be tested. For ten days you will undergo suffering. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the victor’s crown of life.

11 ‘Let everyone listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will never be hurt by the second death.’”
Revelation 2:8–11


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