Thy Works
“I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich)” (Rev 2:9a KJV)
Jesus names several points about the Church of Smyrna: their works, their tribulation, and their poverty. The Church of Smyrna withstood great persecution for the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was for these works and tribulation that Jesus commended them.
Learn MoreThe Church of Smyrna
“And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write;” (Rev 2:8a KJV)
Smyrna today is called Izmir and is located in Turkey. A disciple of John, a man named Polycarp, was the pastor of the Church of Smyrna until he was martyred in A.D. 155. The Church may have been started by Paul during his third missionary journey (Acts19).
Learn MoreHear
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches;” (Rev 2:7a KJV)
Jesus exhorts us to listen and heed the warnings to the Churches.
Learn MoreHating the Deeds
“But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.” (Rev 2:6 KJV)
The Nicolaitans were a group of people within the Church that had built their own internal hierarchy and were teaching that fornication was not sinful.
Learn MoreDo the First Works
“Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works;” (Rev 2:5a KJV)
Jesus wants us to examine ourselves, judge ourselves, look into the mirror that is His Word and know what we should be and realize what we have become.
Learn More