The church at Smyrna

Introduction

It has been suggested by some that the seven churches of Asia represent every type of local congregation that exists. Smyrna was A very rich and powerful city. During Roman times, it surpassed Ephesus both as a seaport and a trading center. Smyrna prided itself on its relationship with Rome Held in high esteem by the Romans. Cicero described it as “the city of our most faithful & ancient allies.”

I. A brief background on the church at Smyrna.

A.     Unknown when the church was established here.

1.     Established during Paul’s 3 yr., stay in Ephesus? Acts 19:10

2.     Acts 19:10 – All Asia heard the Word?

B.     2:8 - Jesus is the first and last, who was dead and lived again.

1.     Significant statement when considering the worship of Dionysus

2.     The eternity of Christ would have a specific significance to the saints at Smyrna.

C.     It is no different for us today.

II.  The Lord’s Commendation

A.       Only two of the seven churches of Asia received all praise and no rebuke from the Lord.  These were Smyrna and Philadelphia.

B.       2:9a - Jesus was aware of their tribulation.

1.     These Christians were under “oppression, affliction, or distress.”  Experienced trials of all kinds.

2.     Trial: poverty. 

a.     Knew what it cost to be a Christian...Matthew 16:24

C.       2:9b - Jesus said, “they were rich.”

1.      Luke. 12:16-21 tells us of how God looks at riches...

2.      We must do all we can to possess the imperishable spiritual riches, the unsearchable riches of Christ!

III.  The Exhortation & Promise of the Lord.

A.     2:10a  - Fear not. 

1.     Eternity was an awesome reward awaiting them!!!

a.     See Matthew 10:28; Hebrews 13:6

2.     We will face trials, temptations, problems, etc., that seem like they last to no end.

B.     2:10b - Be Faithful unto death.

1.     We do not face this type of temptation presently. But:

2.     Could we be counted on to stand, unmoving, for Him – even if it meant that we would have to die?

C.     2:10c - Those who overcome will be awarded the crown of life.

Conclusion

A.     Here we see a church that is poor yet rich spiritually – against whom the Lord said nothing.

B.     Are you a Christian?