Jesus’ Letter to Seven Churches #5 Smyrna: The Suffering Church Revelation 2:8-11 **Introduction: I. Christ’s Commendation Revelation 2:9 (NIV84) 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. This church was known for: A. Afflictions From the culture From the religious community B. Poverty II. Christ’s Counsel Revelation 2:10 (NIV84) 10 Do 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. III. Christ’s Promise to Overcomers Revelation 2:10–11 (NIV84) 10 Do 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. Conclusion: