The first and the last, who was dead and became alive, says: I know how you are suffering, how poor you are—but you are rich. I also know that those who claim to be Jews slander you. They are the synagogue of Satan. Don’t be afraid of what you are going to suffer. The devil is going to throw some of you into prison so that you may be tested. Your suffering will go on for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Let the person who has ears listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. Everyone who wins the victory will never be hurt by the second death." Revelations 2:8-11
Continuing with the second letter, we read that this was for the church in the city called Smyrna, which is today modern day Izmir, Turkey.
From what we have read, this church was undergoing tremendous hardship for being believers living among those who aren't or among those who were different than them.
As with the other letters to the other churches, this applies to many churches anywhere in the world -- past, present and future.
Once again, this is a letter of instruction and advice -- "don’t be afraid".
This is a letter about what is happening and what is yet coming, so as to be a warning.
This is also a letter of encouragement -- "everyone who wins the victory will never be hurt by the second death".
And this is a letter of blessing -- "I will give you the crown of life".
So like the rest of the other letters, it is recommended reading, and not only that, it should also be reread as often as needed.
Matthew 24:9-13
"Then they will hand you over to those who will torture and kill you. All nations will hate you because you are committed to me. Then many will lose faith. They will betray and hate each other. Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. And because there will be more and more lawlessness, most people’s love will grow cold. But the person who endures to the end will be saved."
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