Revelation 2:8-11

Smyrna (Verses 8-11)

The City

Thirty five miles north of Ephesus was another harbor city of 200,000 people. It was known as a most beautiful city. Smyrna was a wealthy, prosperous and proud city. The city was founded by Alexender the Great. The original Olympic games were held here. It is the only city still in existence today. Now it is called Izmir, Turkey.

The Church

The origin of the church here is not recorded in the New Testament. History tells of the persecution suffered here. Polycarp is a well known martyr from Smyrna.

Things Commended

This was a WEALTHY church.

Rich in spite of real poverty. They had no money but had treasures in heaven.

Rich in spite of slander. The Jews were blaspheming them. When Polycarp burned, Jews brought the firewood.

Rich in spite of persecution. Polycarp would be burned at the stake some 60 years later. Some were beaten. They were not allowed to buy or sell in the open market. They suffered tribulation for 10 days.

Rich because of a sympathetic savior. Jesus was on their side and aware of their problems.

Rich because of the precious promises. They were promised a crown of life. There are two different words translated “crown” in the New Testament. There was the royal crown of power and authority, the royal diadem. But the crown mentioned here is the crown of victory (Gold medal from the Olympics). They will not be hurt in the second death (eternal punishment in hell) because they will have eternal life.

Things Condemned

There is not a single word of condemnation in this letter. Jesus found nothing to rebuke.