April 18, 2019
Adrian Rogers
Scripture Passage: Revelation 2:8-11
The message to the church of Smyrna in Revelation 2 is one of tribulation, treasure, and triumph. The believers at Smyrna had seen both the windows of Heaven and doors of Hell—blessed by God yet knowing severe and deep tribulation.
This message to the church of Smyrna is especially poignant for us today, as the sands of time run low, and the days grow gloriously dim.
Revelation 2:9 says, “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not...”
The church faces tribulation in three forms: persecution, poverty, and profanity. These are not common trials; rather, they are troubles they would not bear if they weren’t Christians.
From the human viewpoint, their suffering is misery; from the satanic viewpoint, it is a mystery. But from the divine viewpoint, it is ministry.
Revelation 2:10a says, “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days.”
John explains that there will be complete, full persecution for a limited time; there will be a beginning and an end to it. God is sovereign over all of it.
The church also suffers poverty; their goods are confiscated, and they are passed up due to their appearance. But they are rich in the things that matter because they have the Lord.
Adrian Rogers says, “How sad it is for a man to have his pockets lined with money and to be a pauper in the sight of Almighty God.”
“Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10b)
Many of us will not face the intense persecution of the martyrs in Smyrna; we may never be imprisoned for our faith or burned at the stake.
Even still, we should be faithful in the face of fear; with burning hearts, brimming eyes, and bursting lips, we must tell the world about Jesus Christ.
How rich are you in the things that matter? Would you be considered faithful until death? Are you sharing your faith with others?
