characteristics of the church of smyrnacharacteristics of the church of smyrna

characteristics of the church of smyrna28 May characteristics of the church of smyrna

California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. He wants to stop us. Maybe someone in your family is causing you some grief. They are for us to give back to Him. It was already being persecuted. Do not be afraid. What Does God Say about the Church at Smyrna? Things are smooth. 3. The Church at Smyrna would have been familiar with the extreme honor associated with a victors crown. The city was well known for its Olympic-style athletic contests. Many were placed on the rack where they were stretched so far that their legs and their arms were pulled out of their sockets. Because I was on staff here and was one of the instructors, I had to go to all the parties, all the festivities, and all the graduation dinners. Get our Question of the Week delivered right to your inbox! They made up whatever they could and went to the government and they were persecuted. 6. As a matter of fact, He promises us that if you are a believer, you will face suffering and you will have some persecution in your life (2 Tim. It would protect them. It reminds us of five things that we must remember if we are going to suffer well. (Ephesians 1 is a good reminder of our riches in Christ.). That is a way of worshipping Him, showing honor to Him. How do these verses affirm Christs equality with God? How can you better realize the fact that our trials will be limited and temporary? Kingdom 103: Your Faith is Essential in the Kingdom, Kingdom 103: They Praise Him, But Fail to Obey Him, Kingdom 103: The King's Will and the King's Word, Kingdom 103: Know Your Purpose While on This Earth. Smyrna was a large, important city on the western coast of Asia Minor, famed for its schools of medicine and science. John was then to send the divine dictation to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11). John addresses the Church in Smyrna. They had laid up for themselves treasures in Heaven,where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. (Matthew 6:20) No doubt, Jesuss commendation would have been a timely affirmation that their sacrifices had not been made in vainand that they should continue basking in the abundant life Jesus had purchased for them. That should leave us to want to bring everyone we know to be with us in Heaven. I do not want to simply stand there. Some people use this verse about dying the second death to uphold their view of the doctrine of annihilation. Some Jews, like the Sadducees, believed this was annihilation (John 5:28-29; Rev. Finally, Jesus warns His people to expect more suffering, persecution, and testing. All rights reserved. But believers need not to fear death, because it will only result in their receiving a crown of life. How does this apply to me? martyr, one who voluntarily suffers death rather than deny their religion by words or deeds; such action is afforded special, institutionalized recognition in most major religions of the world. I shut the door and I stood there. I understand. He can walk right through it with them. Jesus Christ is the eternal God. He has always existed. They said you make light of that then we will burn you at the stake! The Jews who hated him gathered the wood for the fire. Toggle Name and characteristics subsection 1.1 Definition. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. My entire senior year was spent at the hospital as we would rotate through labs. Smyrna was a seaport city about 35 miles north of Ephesus. The challenge for us is to suffer well. All rights reserved. People did not want to sell to them because they were Christians. The third thing we need to remember is that the ultimate enemy is Satan. Christians are not exempt from suffering. Read Revelation 2:8-11 (Our focus will be on verse 8 today, but read the entire letter to get an overview.). Those crowns are not to make us feel good about ourselves. I walked out and thank goodness it was 3:30 which was the time to go home. It went on and on. Nor will we suffer hardships like imprisonment for our faith, and very few of us will face the choice between our livelihood or a life with Christ. As we look at this letter to Smyrna, this letter gives us insight into suffering. May I be accepted this day before you as an acceptable sacrifice. They lit the fire, but strangely enough, the wind blew the fire away from his body so it would not touch him. What does this passage mean? One of the instructors of one particular lab was a well-known atheist there at the hospital. Throughout history, Smyrna has suffered its fair share of hardship. Appreciation for this transcription work goes to Marilyn Fine. For the first He says in Revelation 2:10, Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. I have a picture of modern day Smyrna in contrast to Ephesus which, today, is a deserted ruin with no people. Scripture does not give us any information concerning the founding of this church, nor is it mentioned in the book of Acts. It can be seen that Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7), though a local church in the apostle's day, is typical of the first century as a whole; Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11) characterizes the church under persecution, e.g. It was used to embalm the dead in the first century (Jn. Be thou our vision. Explain your answer. Be hopeful. Today, we look at the letter to the church at Smyrna, a church known for suffering. in Christian Education with a focus on Women's Ministry from Dallas Theological Seminary. What are the other crowns and to what are they referring? They had no food. Hand over those difficult and overwhelming situations to the One who knows and cares. They were hated. The church at Smyrna was to undergo some intense persecution and tribulation. I cried and I prayed and I said, God, I do not think I can do this. How does this fact strengthen your faithfulness? This is a church under persecution yet denounced every false pretension of Jews who were (Synagogue of Satan) abode of Satan. In verse 9 when He says, I know your tribulations. That word used here for tribulation literally means pressure. (Notice the similarities to the description of Christ in 1:17-18). He assures His people that their continued faithfulness, even to the point of death, will earn them a reward that far outweighs their earthly trialsa victors crown. However, the church was wealthy, not in the temporal things that had brought their city fame. For instance, telling them that they were practicing cannibalism because they were partaking of the Lords Supper, eating of the body of Christ, drinking His blood. We need to really commit to pray. Ch 1 Pt 2, Kingdom 104: Where Are the Masculine-Thinking Men? 3. Smyrna -- The Suffering Church | Bible.org Anyone who has said I cannot earn salvation on my own so I put my faith in the blood of Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for my sins. 1. When we seek to do His church on our own, we turn it into a church of evil, as diametrically opposed to Christ, as Satan is opposed to Him. And his commands are not burdensome, for everyone born of God overcomes the world. They were being slandered by those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. These Jews were physical descendants of Abraham. In verse nine, Jesus praises and affirms the church by recognizing their material poverty in contrast to their vast spiritual prosperity. As I said in your study this week that fear and trust are opposites. According to Revelation 20:14-15 and 21:8, what is the second death and who would experience it? Smyrna, an ancient city now surrounded by the modern city of Izmir, was originally established around 1000 BC by Aeolian Greek settlers in "Old Smyrna" (Bayrakl Hy) on a small peninsula jutting out from Asia Minor into the Aegean Sea, similar to Old Tyre. Jun 21, 2021 42:17. Consider this: when we are independent from Christ in our personal lives and in running our churches, we are forsaking and opposing Him. It was one of the chief cities of Roman-dominated Asia and competed with places such as Pergamos and Ephesus for the title "First City of Asia." And whenever we do, the vision of Jesus standing among us in all His glory, and the words of promise He speaks, will sustain and guide us.7, I hope you all have had a great week studying about suffering. The substance was used to make fragrant perfumes and anointing oils (Exodus 30:23) and was used in ancient burial preparations (John 19:39). Kingdom 103: What Gospel Are You Preaching? I want that kind of depth. First, the letter is the shortest of the seven, at only 90 words. What does it mean to be faithful until death? How then can I blaspheme my king and my savior? Well, they threatened to bring out live beasts and he said to bring them on. Who is it that overcomes the world? Presumably, this church was founded during Pauls ministry in Ephesus (Acts 19:10).1, The Greek word translated Smyrna was used in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) to translate the Hebrew word for myrrh, a resinous substance used as a perfume for the living (Matthew 2:11) and the dead (John 19:39). Some people believe that people who are unbelievers will go to hell for a period of time. (How does Romans 2:28-29 relate to this? What would Jesus say to such a church? 11. My time came to rotate through that lab. How can I be changed, so I can learn and grow? Faith and fear are opposites. How can this give you hope for your church? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. (1 John 1-5). He died for one reason: his unyielding faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus lived life in purity and sinlessness for our benefit, to enable us to have eternal life and partake in His fellowship. Scripture does not record the founding of the church of Smyrna. Garlands of victory were bestowed only to the highest achieving athletes. 5. 1. He never promises us that life is just going to be great. In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. The period 1923-1924 was followed by the . They would tell us about their relationship with the Lord and they would tell us about the things they had endured during the Cultural Revolution because of their faith in Christ. They were reporting false allegations to the government about these believers, saying things which were not true about them. The church at Smyrna was to undergo some intense persecution and tribulation. They were dirt poor. by David C. Grabbe Forerunner, "Prophecy Watch," January 2, 2009 . She came in and I said, Good morning, how are you doing? Pt 2, Kingdom 103: Student or Disciple of the Kingdom? Kingdom 103: On What Foundation Does Your Faith Stand? That is according to I Corinthians 3:13-14 which talks about that approval, that standing before him, to be evaluated for our works. This article is part of our larger End Times Resource Library. Satan does not want believers to study the book of Revelation because he does not want you to know your eternal hope. from A.D. c. 100-316; Pergamos (Revelation 2:12-17), 'where Satan dwells' is suggestive of the church mixing with the world . In Jesus name, amen. 3. So I kept my guard there, but I said, have I done something? She told me to shut the door. They could not advance in jobs. What was Jesus message to the church in Pergamum in Revelation? If you have ever gone to a funeral or to a visitation and you have looked in a coffin to view the body, you see that physical body, but you know something is missing. Specific Messages to 7 Churches of Revelation Some of these seven churches kept closer to the gospel than others. (1 Corinthians 15:50-57). When Jesus refers to the crown of life, is He referring to eternal life or to a reward for those who are faithful through tribulation on this earth? The church in Smyrna faced bitter persecution and death, yet it emitted a fragrant testimony of faithful commitment to . Description. Into Thy Word Ministries. It's incumbent on us to listen up and give heed to what the Holy Spirit is saying to the churches. Which attributes of God most comfort you in the midst of trials and why? And He genuinely cares about what happens to His children. They were a synagogue of Satan because they were attacking the church. Ephesus is the first of the seven letters. 6. He knows the thoughts and inclinations of our hearts (Psalm 94:11). (Look also at the story of Job in Job 1.). We cannot do that as a church of Satan! Look at Revelation 2:8 with me, And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life, says this: (NASB). How wonderful it would be if our church received an encouraging letter from Jesus, especially if it contained no criticism. He is like a lion prowling around looking for someone he could use. With a population of over 3 million, Smyrna continues to thrive today as the modern Turkish city of Izmir. Maybe you are in a season that everything is going great and you are just loving life. 4 MacArthur, New Testament Commentary, 71. 12. Jesus is upfront about the fact that we will experience trouble in this world, but He has also promised that His peace, grace, and abiding presence are our refuge during our trials (Matthew 28:20). It was almost as if the city was trying to starve them out. These early believers could have participated in a few cultural customslike sprinkling incense on the fire that burned in front of the emperors statue. I know your afflictions and your povertyyet you are rich!Followers of Jesus living in Smyrna were seen as a cult and persecuted by the hostile Roman empire. But, when we trust in Him, He will give us the strength to endure. The first death means when we physically die and then go into eternity for rewards and to wait for the resurrection and the everlasting life. She would take the other student aside and sit down and show her how to do the instruments and explain the physiology behind what we were testing. (8) Revelation 2:8 - "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: 'The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. The term may also refer to anyone who sacrifices their life or something of great value for the sake of principle. Facing Life Successfully and Effectively Pt 1, Facing Life Successfully and Effectively Pt 2, The Power of Motive and Faith in God's Word, Your Faith in Jesus the Christ: the Work of God, Your Faith in Jesus the Christ: the Work of God Pt 2, The Challenges of Your Faith In God's Written Word, God Created Marriage as a Foundational Institution, Populating the Earth Wasn't the Primary Purpose of Marriage, Citizenship Pt 2--Becoming a Kingdom Citizen, Citizenship Pt 3-The Concept of Dual Citizenship, Citizenship Pt 4: The Invisible Citizenship, The Kingdom Versus the Government of Man Pt 2, The Birth of the Kingdom, The Spirit of Dominion, Ruling the Visible World From the Invisible Realm, We Were Born to Rule, But Not Over Each Other, Jesus' Assignment Was to Restore the Kingdom, The Kingdom--Preached In Word, Demonstrated In Power, Understanding Principles of Kingdom Culture, Understanding the Kingdom Concept of Culture Pt 1, Understanding the Kingdom Concept of Culture Pt 2, Understanding the Kingdom Concept of Culture Pt 3, Culture and Its Many Manifestations Part 1, Culture and Its Many Manifestations Part 2, Culture and Its Many Manifestations Part 3, Culture and Its Many Manifestations Part 4, The Kingdom: Social and Economic Differences, Kingdom Culture vs The Culture of Christianity, Change Is Inevitable When Obeying the King's Word, Faith in the Written Word and Hardship Pt 1, Faith In the Written Word and Hardship Pt 2, The Principles and Benefits of Purpose Pt 1, The Principles and Benefits of Purpose Pt 2, The Principles and Benefits of Purpose Pt 3, The Principles and Benefits of Purpose Pt 4, The Principles and Benefits of Purpose Pt 5, The Principles and Benefits of Purpose Pt 6, The Principles and Benefits of Purpose Pt 7, The Principles for the Nature of Your Purpose, The Lord Provides for His Purpose, Not for Our Plans Pt1, The Lord Provides for His Purpose, Not for Our Plans Pt 2, It's Imperative That One Knows Their Purpose, Your Purpose is Being Accomplished Through Christ. If this was your church, what could be done to make sure it did not die but be revived to its formerly healthy and vibrant ways? Clarence Larkin :: Chapter 22. The Seven Churches - Blue Letter Bible Be encouraged as you study the message sent to this church. In the center of the ancient city, Mount Pagos (modern name: Kadifekale) stood 500 ft. high and was encircled by a garland of architecturally impressive buildings and templeswhich was probably why the hill was known as The Crown of Smyrna.. Is the Apocalypse Mentioned in the Bible? When we refuse to heed His call, it will just be a short time until we are thrown away, given to the devil, since we are working for him anyway. But, Jesus reminded them that they were poor here on this earth but you are so rich. What was Jesus' message to the church in Smyrna in Revelation? 6. The Cross And Unjust Suffering (1 Peter 2:19-25). You know that it is spiritual warfare where you get discouraged by things you hear said. How would Jesus words in Luke 12:4-7 encourage someone about to suffer for his faith? Its association with death perfectly pictures the suffering church at Smyrna. The crown of life is one of several crowns mentioned in Scripture. Even though He died, He conquered death and He rose again. You will not worship the Roman emperor, then we will make you! You know, none of us will probably be persecuted for our faith any worse than that. What was Jesus message to the church in Thyatira in Revelation? As a matter of fact, she began to teach me. They had absolutely nothing. This is true of the Evangelistic and . I lived in mainland China for four years and during those four years I studied the Chinese language of Mandarin. Have you experienced suffering in your life where it was difficult for a time to stand firm? They, and the zealot Jewish leaders, hated Christians and prohibited them from working, buying, or selling, any time they got a chance. By surrendering our lives to our born-again existence, we join our Smyrnaean brethren as overcomers who wont be harmed in the second death, which is the final judgment of the wicked (Revelation 20:6, 20:14, 21:8) Jesus Christ paid for our sin on the cross at Calvary. Perfusionists, for some reason, or at least the ones I know, love to drink and party. It was home to the Greek poet Homer and Polycarp, a personal disciple of the Apostle John and the bishop of the church at Smyrna, known for his faithfulness to Jesus even to martyrdom. The trials that you are going to go through will be brief. 3. They just put a rope around his hands. You are so dependent on this myth and you are crazy. Jesuss short correspondence with His people in Smyrna gives us incredible insight into this group of believers way of life and faith. And finally, Smyrna was the only congregation besides Philadelphia that did not receive admonishment from Jesus. So, how is He involved in your church? The question we have to ask ourselves is, are we operating to the opposite tune that Jesus commands as this Synagogue and the church of Smyrna were starting to?

Ammonia Smell In Nose Sinus Infection, Maxim Naturals 492c Cedar Lane Teaneck, Nj, Cleaning Jokes One Liners, San Diego Wave Coaching Staff, Articles C