As a child, who encouraged you the most?
A parent? Sibling? Friend?
Why did you need their encouragement at the time?
How about as an adult?
Is there someone in your life who encourages you more than anyone else?
Why do you find that person so encouraging?
When do you find you need the most encouragement?
Today’s study passage shares Christ’s encouraging words to his followers in Smyrna (modern Izmir).
Christ’s words reveal his presence, God’s control, and a reminder of our eternal reward as His followers.
Responding to Christ’s Review | Part Two
A Study of Revelation 2:8-11 | The Church in Smyrna
First, a brief history.
Scholars suppose that the church in Smyrna was likely founded during Paul’s third missionary journey while he lived in Ephesus. (See Acts 19 for more about Paul’s influence in the province of Asia.)
There is also an early second-century letter written by Ignatius that provides information about the church at Smyrna. Especially the martyred bishop Polycarp. (Check out this devotional about Polycarp for more information.)
Now on to the passage.
8 “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. [i]
What stands out by Christ describing himself in this way to the church at Smyrna?
9 “ ‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. [ii]
What does Christ know about the church in Smyrna?
How does telling them he knows these things encourage the people of Smyrna?
Read James 2:5 and explain what Christ meant by calling the people of Smyrna rich.
How does Matthew 6:20-21 support both James 2:5 and what Christ meant by calling the people of Smyrna rich?
As for the Jews mentioned in this verse, what does Christ reveal about their true allegiance? (See Romans 2:28-29)
Why is it appropriate to refer to slanderers as the synagogue of Satan? (See Genesis 3:1-7)
10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.[iii]
What does Christ say is about to happen to some believers in Smyrna?
How are they to respond to this circumstance? Why?
Most theologians view the “ten days” as indicating a symbolic period rather than a specific reference. Using this view, how should the people of Smyrna view their suffering?
What is the crown of life? Use the following verses to help answer this question.
11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’ [iv]
How does Christ’s knowledge of their situation and how he encourages them relate to how Christ described himself in verse eight?
What is the responsibility of the believers in Smyrna?
Read Matthew 10:26-31. How does this support Christ’s encouragement to the people of Smyrna?
Responding to Christ’s Review | Part Two
A Study of Revelation 2:8-11 | Application for today.
8 “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. [v]
Describe how this self-description of Christ encourages you in your current circumstances or past ones.
9 “ ‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. [vi]
What tribulation, poverty, or slander have you experienced in your life?
How does knowing Christ is fully aware of what happens in your life encourage you?
10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.[vii]
Describe how this helps you remain faithful no matter what you fear.
11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’ [viii]
Why is reading Revelation 2:8-11, or other scripture, out loud important to strengthening your faith?
What is Christ asking you to conquer spiritually this week?
Who do you know that needs some spiritual encouragement today? How will you encourage them?
Responding to Christ’s Review | Part Two
A Study of Revelation 2:8-11 | A Prayer Response
Heavenly Father, most holy Name above all Names, thank you for the encouragement found in Revelation 2:8-11 that your presence through your Spirit and Son are always with us. We rest assured that your kingdom is real and your will is done regardless of our temporary circumstances.
Strengthen us daily as we study and listen to your scriptures. Help us not only hear and understand your words but put them into action by how we engage with those around us.
Not because we can earn eternal life, but because we believe in You and the grace You have offered through Christ’s death on the cross.
Part of this involves forgiving each other for the wrongs we do, just as you have forgiven us.
Lead us away from the temptations of this temporal world and the deceptiveness of those who are of the synagogue of Satan.
Keep uppermost in our minds that we are safe in Your care.
Amen.
Write a brief prayer in the comments below based on this study.
Warmly,
Barbara Lynn
Quick links to other posts in this series on Revelation:
What God Chose to Reveal | Revelation 1:1-8
Seeing Through John’s Vision | Revelation 1:9-20
Responding to Christ’s Review Part One | Revelation 2:1-7
[i] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 2:8.
[ii] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 2:9.
[iii] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 2:10.
[iv] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 2:11.
[v] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 2:8.
[vi] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 2:9.
[vii] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 2:10.
[viii] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 2:11.