• “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life [i.e. suffered unjustly and overcome], says this: 9 ‘I know [οιδα oida – to have seen, or perceived – emphasizing omniscience] your tribulation [suffering] and your poverty [financial], but you are rich [spiritually; cf. James 2:5], and the blasphemy [slanderous attacks] by those who say they are Jews and are not [Rom. 9:6], but are a synagogue of Satan [religious people who are governed by Satan]. 10 ‘Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil [through his servants] is about to cast some of you into prison [persecution according to God’s permissive will], that you may be tested [to determine the quality of their faith, like Job; see Job 1:6-20], and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death [as Christ had been], and I will give you the crown of life [a martyrs-reward for obedience; cf. 1 Cor. 3:13-14; Jam. 1:12]. 11 ‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes [1 John 5:3-4] will not [οὐ μὴ ou me – emphatic negative] be hurt by the second death [Lake of Fire; Rev. 20:14].’ (Rev. 2:8-11)

Summary:

     Smyrna was a seaport city about 40 miles north of Ephesus and had a population of nearly 100,000. It was known for its connection with myrrh, from which the city derives its name. Jesus identifies Himself as “the first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life” (Rev. 2:8). Jesus knew their persecution, and though they were financially poor, they were spiritually rich (Rev. 2:9a). He also knew about the slanders they suffered at the hands of hostile Jews, whom Jesus declared “are a synagogue of Satan” (Rev. 2:9b). That is, they belong to Satan and do his will, attacking God’s people. Ultimately, our battle is in the spiritual realm (Eph. 6:12). God permitted some Christians at Smyrna to undergo suffering for a period of ten days, promising a crown-reward for those who endure (Rev. 2:10). It is not the gift of eternal life, but the abundance of that life (John 10:10). Though these Christians might be hurt by physical suffering and death, they will never be hurt by the second death (Rev. 2:11).