Poor, but Rich The Church in Smyrna Revelation 2:8-11

Review Christ is examining His churches –He is reporting on what He finds Both the good and bad What needs to be done to overcome Ephesus was found to be loyal, but lacking –Needed to Remember, Repent, and Renew Now we will look at the church in Smyrna

35 miles north of Ephesus

Smyrna, the city Called the most beautiful of all cities by Stratos

Smyrna, the city Second only to Ephesus in exports Had a population of 100,000+ Is now Izmir, Turkey’s 2 nd largest city

Smyrna, the city First city to build a temple to Dea Roma (the goddess Rome) Also built temple to Tiberius, the emperor

Smyrna, the city The acropolis on Mt Pagos above the city was said to look like a crown when viewed from below A crown became the city’s symbol

Smyrna, the church Rev 2:8-11 –Notice: No condemnation No negatives at all “I know your tribulation” –Temples became the center for persecution Accused Christians of being an “illicit religion” –Was not legally sanctioned by Rome

Smyrna, the church Cannibals Immoral Homebreakers Atheists Disloyal Pyromaniacs Eat flesh and blood of Christ Did not participate in “morality” of the time Set father against son, etc Didn’t believe in any Roman gods Refused to call Caesar “Lord & God” From Nero blaming the burning of Rome on them During persecution, Christians were called:

Smyrna, the church “I know... Your poverty” –Poor in one of the richest cities –So much of the economy based on religion and immoral practices Didn’t leave much for Christians –Christ knows why they were poor “But you are rich” –Spiritually they have a lot going for them Matt 6:19-21

Smyrna, the church “What you are about to suffer” –Tribulation will get worse –Imprisonments are coming “Ten days” –Not a literal number –A fairly short period of time –They can endure, it won’t last too long

Smyrna, the church “Be faithful until death” –Not just “be faithful all your life” –But “be faithful even if it costs your life” Some were going to die in the persecutions AD 155, Polycarp, an elder of the church in Smyrna, was martyred at age 86 “A crown of life” –A “victory garland” –Perhaps reminiscent of the city’s crown

Smyrna, the church “He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death” –1 st death – physical loss of life –2 nd death – eternal and spiritual loss of life Is a death that will hurt

Conclusion What can we learn from the church at Smyrna? –Physical wealth means nothing to Christ A lot of people think wealth is a sign of approval –Spiritual riches are gained through much suffering Christ is aware of all the suffering we endure –To gain the reward we must be faithful no matter the cost Are you willing to put Christ first?