Jesus and His Church: Persevering Persecution

Jesus speaks of the power of resurrection and life. 

8 “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who cwas dead, and has come to life, says this:  

He has unlimited power.  There is no time limit, no geographical limit, while persecution might last for a time period, Jesus is for all time without limits.  An eternal perspective is require in a time of persecution.  Jesus is before time, over time, and reigns for all time. 

He has life-giving power.  He overcame the grave.  He did not avoid the grave. Many westerners believe that God answers prayer by delivering us from persecution.  This was not the message to the church at Smyrna.  They were in persecution and more was on the way.  Some would die so they needed to know that Jesus overcame the grave. 

Jesus speaks of the persecution of the church. 

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. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 

Jesus speaks of persevering in suffering .

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. Be faithful until death, 

Jesus summons those who can hear.   

11 ‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. 

 Jesus speaks of the reward of the faithful unto death.

10...Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11. . .He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death.’

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