Second church - Smyrna

Jesus sends a message to the second of Seven Churches on Western Coast of modern Turkey.

Smyrna, now called Ismir, is on the shore of the Aegean Sea and it is a rich city. About eighty kilometers or fifty miles, south-east is the famous City of Ephesus which is also near the coast.

The deceptions of Satan, the being first mentioned in Genesis 3:1, and his persecution of the true children of God, are acknowledged by God to this church, and it is commended for its works despite its difficulties with tribulation and poverty. To those who overcome is given the promise of a crown of life.

Background Reading:

Revelation 2:8-11

2nd Church Smyrna

8 "To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:

These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. 9 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.

11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.

More Information:

2nd Church Smyrna and Satan

Smyma was a rich city in Turkey it is now called Ismir, about 50 miles north west and inland of Ephesus which is on the Aegean sea.