“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you” – John 15:18-20

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

“Eighty and six years have I served him, and he has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King and my Savior?” – Polycarp of Smyrna

Sermon: Revelation 2:8-11, To the Church in Smyrna, Victory over Death.

Main Point: Jesus knows our suffering and comforts us with His victory!

I. Jesus Knows Our Suffering – 2:8-9.

See also Luke 6:22-23; James 2:5; Mark 8:36

“God is mine, it is enough.” – Thomas Watson

II. Jesus Comforts Us with His Victory – 2:10-11.

See also James 1:12

Application

1) Do not fear suffering for Christ. 

2) Rethink suffering. 

3) Rest in Jesus. 

4) So, live with an eternal perspective. 

See also John 11:25-26

Conclusion

“You can kill us, but you cannot do us any real harm.” – Justin Martyr