“The Letters to the Church in Smyrna & Pergamum”

Revelation 2:8-17

Summary:

We’re going to look at two letters today. One letter written to the church in Smyrna and another to the Church in Pergamum.

Smyrna was located about 50 miles above Ephesus and it is an ancient name for the modern-day Turkish city of Izmir. Being one of the most popular cities at the time, Smyrna was filled with many different ideologies and beliefs from other cultures. That’s why we see Jesus pointing out their tribulation as believers. It was extremely difficult for the Church of Smyrna to keep their faith. In addition to this, Jesus also says they’re in

poverty. Why were they so poor in one of the most prosperous cities of the time? We aren’t exactly sure. But perhaps, the high esteem of emperor worship in the city produced economic sanctions against Christians who refused to participate. In Smyrna, economic pressure may have been the first step toward persecution. There was also an oppression from the Jews who were not actually authentic and genuine Jew but were Jews by family heritage. Ultimately, Jesus gives them a message of hope and encouragement. “Do not fear what you are about to suffer…Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life” (2:10).

Pergamum held on to various false teachings. In today’s passage, we see that the teaching of Baalam and the teaching of Nicolaitans were shared among them. These hindered many people in faith. However, the church did her best to hold fast to Christ name. Unfortunately, there were times when they gave in to those teachings and were drifted away. Consequently, Jesus calls them to repent. And if they do, Jesus promises a reward. “To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it” (2:17).

Application:

Whether it would be a season of tribulation or a season of joy, our faith in Christ should always remain. We must have such discernment to see and know whether we are glorifying God or glorifying the things of this world. True church of God and true Christians always remain faithful to Him and His Word.

Prayer:

Gracious and loving God, we thank you for your Word. This time, we first repent. There were times and moments in life where we were so caught up with the worldliness. Help us, Holy Spirit, to always remain faithful and true to You.

In Christ name we pray. Amen.