To the Church in Smyrna

The letters to the seven churches of Revelation have an overall “Do not be afraid” theme. These churches were reminded that our God is the God who sees and knows the locations, circumstances, and unique challenges of these different groups of early Christians. Their sufferings and uncertainties are acknowledged, and they are each given customized promises detailing how their faithfulness and endurance will be rewarded.

Whether we read these letters as addressing the specific churches in these ancient cities near the end of the first century or as describing groups of Christians across the centuries since, the message is the same—God sees, and God is with you, so be courageous and hold on. To the church in Smyrna, this message was most specific.

The One who had overcome death—as introduced in the first chapter of Revelation—knew their circumstances and trials. They were “about to suffer” persecution, but it would only be for a limited time. When they experienced it, they would know that God already knew about it and knew the end point of their suffering.

Their courage would ensure their faithfulness and their participation in the victory that Jesus has already won and that God will bring to fulfillment.

They would be among those many people throughout history who “did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death,” overcoming the devil through the saving power of God and by their faithful testimony” (Revelation 12:11).

And the promise to the courageous believers in Smyrna was addressed in the broadest possible terms, to “whoever has ears” (Revelation 2:11).

The invitation given by and in Jesus to overcome our existential fear of death is made to anyone and everyone who chooses to listen.