Seven, Smyrna – David Nasser

Overview:

In week two of our “Seven” series, we cover the church of Smyrna. This suffering church was located in the patriotic city of Smyrna. Because of this city’s strong allegiance with Rome, they were facing persecution not only from the religious Jews, but the Roman government as well. Jesus is encouraging this church to remain faithful in the midst of this attack from the Devil. Tonight, Pastor David unpacked verse 8-11 in Chapter 2 of Revelation. He highlighted God not being the author of suffering; however, He is sovereign over it. Although Satan brings about suffering to the church, God uses it as a means to a greater end. God will reward those who remain faithful to His name through various persecutions. Suffering is a temporary affliction that leads to eternal hope.

Verses:

Revelation 2:8-11

8 “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who [e]was dead, and has come to life, says this: 9 ‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich), and the blasphemy by those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. [f]Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death.’

Quotes:

The church in Smyrna offered little and asked much.

2 things fighting the church in Smyrna :

1. Smyrna was a patriotic city so the church was in trouble for believing in one God

2. Smyrna was a religious city so they were in trouble for believing Jesus was God.

The hotbed of persecution today is not in secular paces but a religious one

Suffering

1. Suffering is the work of the enemy

2. Suffering is the means to a greater end. V.10

3. Suffering is the temporary affliction that points us  to eternal hope

4. Don’t long for suffering or prosperity, long for Jesus.

“86 years have I have served him, and he has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King and my Savior?” Polycarp’s Martyrdom (ca. 69-ca. 155)

Questions:

1. What other “gods” are taking place of our One true God?  What other gods are you bowing down to in your life and allowing to take God’s place?

2. In what area of your life is the enemy causing suffering? How can you grow, knowing that God is sovereign over it?

3. Is there an area in your life where you are not trusting God to be sovereign over? What is that?

4. The real culprit behind suffering is the enemy, how can you shift your perspective and set your eyes on the eternal hope found in Jesus? How can you allow God to grow your faith through it?