The Persecuted Church

“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, ‘These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life:
Revelation 2:8 NKJV

The church in Smyrna represents the period in church history 100 AD -312AD. The word “Smyrna comes from myrrh a fragrance released when crushed. Jog your memory and remember when Myrrh was offered to Jesus. Jews took the heat of themselves by pointing to Christians and helping Romans to persecute Christians in hope of wiping out Christianity ( verse 9) In above mentioned period, there were 10 Roman emperors who corresponded to 10 days spoken of here (verse 10). They launched massive attack against believers.Notice that there is no correction from Jesus for this group. Also notice, Jesus makes no promise to lighten the load instead he say to go through the pain in crushing. Be faithful until death. what an excellent lesson for personal walk with Christ. All we want & pray for is to lighten our load. At the end, promise that no second death. Born once, die twice. Born twice die once.