Revelation 2:8
Verse
Context
To the Church in Smyrna
7He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes, I will grant the right to eat from the tree of life in the Paradise of God. 8To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These are the words of the First and the Last, who died and returned to life.
Sermons
Willie Mullan
Stephen Kaung
Jim Cymbala
Shane Idleman
Robert B. Thompson
Mark GreeningSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Unto the angel - This was probably the famous Polycarp. See below. These things saith the first and the last - He who is eternal; from whom all things come, and to whom all things must return. Which was dead, for the redemption of the world; and is alive to die no more for ever, his glorified humanity being enthroned at the Father's right hand.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Smyrna--in Ionia, a little to the north of Ephesus. POLYCARP, martyred in A.D. 168, eighty-six years after his conversion, was bishop, and probably "the angel of the Church in Smyrna" meant here. The allusions to persecutions and faithfulness unto death accord with this view. IGNATIUS [The Martyrdom of Ignatius 3], on his way to martyrdom in Rome, wrote to POLYCARP, then (A.D. 108) bishop of Smyrna; if his bishopric commenced ten or twelve years earlier, the dates will harmonize. TERTULLIAN [The Prescription against Heretics, 32], and IRENÆUS, who had talked with POLYCARP in youth, tell us POLYCARP was consecrated bishop of Smyrna by St. John. the first . . . the last . . . was dead . . . is alive--The attributes of Christ most calculated to comfort the Church of Smyrna under its persecutions; resumed from Rev 1:17-18. As death was to Him but the gate to life eternal, so it is to be to them (Rev 2:10-11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write,.... Of the city of Smyrna; see Gill on Rev 1:11. That there was a church of Christ here is not to be doubted, though by whom it was founded is not certain; very likely by the Apostle Paul, who was in those parts, and by whose means all Asia heard the Gospel of Christ, Act 19:10. Some think the present angel or pastor of this church, was Polycarp, the disciple of John. Irenaeus (f), who knew him, says he was appointed bishop of Smyrna by the apostles. Here he suffered martyrdom, and was buried: the large amphitheatre, in which he was put to death, is still to be seen, and his sepulchre is yet preserved in this place (g): a very famous epistle, sent by this church at Smyrna to the churches at Pontus, giving an account of the martyrdom of Polycarp, and others, is extant in Eusebius (h). According to the Apostolical Constitutions (i), the first bishops of Smyrna were Aristo Strataeas and Aristo the second, and Apelles, of whom mention is made in Rom 16:10; and who is reckoned among the seventy disciples; See Gill on Luk 10:1; and is said to be bishop of Smyrna before Polycarp; who succeeded Polycarp, I do not find; but it is said there was a church at Smyrna in the "third" century; and so there was in the beginning of the "fourth", since there was a bishop from hence in the council at Nice: and in the "fifth" century, mention is made of several bishops of this place; as of Cyrus, a native of Constantinople; and Protherius, who, it is thought, succeeded him, and was present in the synod at Chalcedon; and Aethericus, who assisted at three synods in this century, at Constantinople, Ephesus, and Chalcedon: and in the "sixth" century, there was a bishop of Smyrna in the fifth synod held at Rome and Constantinople: and even in the "eighth" century, one Antony, a monk, supplied the place of the bishop of Smyrna in the Nicene synod (k). The Turks have in this place now thirteen mosques, the Jews two synagogues, and of the Christians there are two churches belonging to the Greeks, and one to the Armenians (l). This church, and its pastor, represent the state of the church under the persecutions of the Roman emperors. Smyrna signifies "myrrh", which being bitter of taste, is expressive of the bitter afflictions, and persecutions, and deaths, the people of God in this interval endured; and yet, as myrrh is of a sweet smell, so were those saints, in their sufferings for Christ, exceeding grateful and well pleasing to him; wherefore nothing is said by way of complaint to this church; not that she was without fault, but it was proper to use her tenderly in her afflicted state: and, as Dr. More observes, as myrrh was used in the embalming of dead bodies, it may point to the many deaths and martyrdoms of the saints in this period, whereby their names and memories are perpetuated and eternized, These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive. Of these characters of Christ; see Gill on Rev 1:8, Rev 1:11, Rev 1:17, Rev 1:18; and they are very appropriately mentioned, to encourage the saints under their sufferings of death; since Christ, who is the eternal God, had in human nature tasted of the bitterness of death for them, and was risen again; suggesting, that though they were called to undergo the bitterest deaths for his sake, they should be raised again as he was, and live with him for ever. The Ethiopic version reads, "thus saith the holy Spirit"; but it cannot be said of him that "he was dead", (f) Adv. Haeres. l. 3. c. 3. (g) Vid. Smith. Notitia septem Eccles. Asiae, p. 164, 165. (h) Hist. Eccles. l. 4. c. 15. (i) L. 7. c. 46. (k) Hist. Eccles. Magdeburg. cent. 3. c. p. 2. cent. 4. c. 2. p. 3. cent. 5. c. 2. p. 3. c. 10. p. 595, 596. cent. 6. c. 2. p. 4. cent. 8. c. 2. p. 4. (l) Smith. Notitia, p. 167.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We now proceed to the second epistle sent to another of the Asian churches, where, as before, observe, I. The preface or inscription in both parts. 1. The superscription, telling us to whom it was more expressly and immediately directed: To the angel of the church in Smyrna, a place well known at this day by our merchants, a city of great trade and wealth, perhaps the only city of all the seven that is still known by the same name, now however no longer distinguished for its Christian church being overrun by Mahomedism. 2. The subscription, containing another of the glorious titles of our Lord Jesus, the first and the last, he that was dead and is alive, taken out of Rev 1:17, Rev 1:18. (1.) Jesus Christ is the first and the last. It is but a little scantling of time that is allowed to us in this world, but our Redeemer is the first and the last. He is the first, for by him all things were made, and he was before all things with God and was God himself. he is the last, for all things are made for him, and he will be the Judge of all. This surely is the title of God, from everlasting and to everlasting, and it is the title of one that is an unchangeable Mediator between God and man, Jesus, the same yesterday, today, and for ever. He was the first, for by him the foundation of the church was laid in the patriarchal state; and he is the last, for by him the top-stone will be brought forth and laid in the end of time. (2.) He was dead and is alive. He was dead, and died for our sins; he is alive, for he rose again for our justification, and he ever lives to make intercession for us. He was dead, and by dying purchased salvation for us; he is alive, and by his life applies this salvation to us. And if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled by his death, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. His death we commemorate every sacrament day; his resurrection and life every sabbath day. II. The subject-matter of this epistle to Smyrna, where, after the common declaration of Christ's omniscience, and the perfect cognizance he has of all the works of men and especially of his churches, he takes notice, 1. Of the improvement they had made in their spiritual state. This comes in in a short parentheses; yet it is very emphatic: But thou art rich (Rev 2:10), poor in temporals, but rich in spirituals - poor in spirit, and yet rich in grace. Their spiritual riches are set off by their outward poverty. Many who are rich in temporals are poor in spirituals. Thus it was with the church of Laodicea. Some who are poor outwardly are inwardly rich, rich in faith and in good works, rich in privileges, rich in bonds and deeds of gift, rich in hope, rich in reversion. Spiritual riches are usually the reward of great diligence; the diligent hand makes rich. Where there is spiritual plenty, outward poverty may be better borne; and when God's people are impoverished in temporals, for the sake of Christ and a good conscience, he makes all up to them in spiritual riches, which are much more satisfying and enduring. 2. Of their sufferings: I know thy tribulation and thy poverty - the persecution they underwent, even to the spoiling of their goods. Those who will be faithful to Christ must expect to go through many tribulations; but Jesus Christ takes particular notice of all their troubles. In all their afflictions, he is afflicted, and he will recompense tribulation to those who trouble them, but to those that are troubled rest with himself. 3. He knows the wickedness and the falsehood of their enemies: I know the blasphemy of those that say they are Jews, but are not; that is, of those who pretend to be the only peculiar covenant-people of God, as the Jews boasted themselves to be, even after God had rejected them; or of those who would be setting up the Jewish rites and ceremonies, which were now not only antiquated, but abrogated; these may say that they only are the church of God in the world, when indeed they are the synagogue of Satan. Observe, (1.) As Christ has a church in the world, the spiritual Israel of God, so the devil has his synagogue. Those assemblies which are set up in opposition to the truths of the gospel, and which promote and propagate damnable errors, - those which are set up in opposition to the purity and spirituality of gospel worship, and which promote and propagate the vain inventions of men and rites and ceremonies which never entered into the thoughts of God, - these are all synagogues of Satan: he presides over them, he works in them, his interests are served by them, and he receives a horrid homage and honour from them. (2.) For the synagogues of Satan to give themselves out to be the church or Israel of God is no less than blasphemy. God is greatly dishonoured when his name is made use of to promote and patronize the interests of Satan; and he has a high resentment of this blasphemy, and will take a just revenge on those who persist in it. 4. He foreknows the future trials of his people, and forewarns them of them, and fore-arms them against them. (1.) He forewarns them of future trials: The devil shall cast some of you into prison, and you shall have tribulation, Rev 2:10. The people of God must look for a series and succession of troubles in this world, and their troubles usually rise higher. They had been impoverished by their tribulations before; now they must be imprisoned. Observe, It is the devil that stirs up his instruments, wicked men, to persecute the people of God; tyrants and persecutors are the devil's tools, though they gratify their own sinful malignity, and know not that they are actuated by a diabolical malice. (2.) Christ fore-arms them against these approaching troubles, [1.] By his counsel: Fear none of these things. This is not only a word of command, but of efficacy, no, only forbidding slavish fear, but subduing it and furnishing the soul with strength and courage. [2.] By showing them how their sufferings would be alleviated and limited. First, They should not be universal. It would be some of them, not all, who should be cast into prison, those who were best able to bear it and might expect to be visited and comforted by the rest. Secondly, They were not to be perpetual, but for a set time, and a short time: Ten days. It should not be everlasting tribulation, the time should be shortened for the elect's sake. Thirdly, It should be to try them, not to destroy them, that their faith, and patience, and courage, might be proved and improved, and be found to honour and glory. [3.] By proposing and promising a glorious reward to their fidelity: Be thou faithful to death, and I will give thee a crown of life. Observe, First, The sureness of the reward: I will give thee. He has said it that is able to do it; and he has undertaken that he will do it. They shall have the reward from his own hand, and none of their enemies shall be able to wrest it out of his hand, or to pull it from their heads. Secondly, The suitableness of it. 1. A crown, to reward their poverty, their fidelity, and their conflict. 2. A crown of life, to reward those who are faithful even unto death, who are faithful till they die, and who part with life itself in fidelity to Christ. The life so worn out in his service, or laid down in his cause, shall be rewarded with another and a much better life that shall be eternal. III. The conclusion of this message, and that, as before, 1. With a call to universal attention, that all men, all the world, should hear what passes between Christ and his churches - how he commends them, how he comforts them, how he reproves their failures, how he rewards their fidelity. It concerns all the inhabitants of the world to observe God's dealings with his own people; all the world may learn instruction and wisdom thereby. 2. With a gracious promise to the conquering Christian: He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death, Rev 2:11. Observe, (1.) There is not only a first, but a second death, a death after the body is dead. (2.) This second death is unspeakably worse than the first death, both in the dying pangs and agonies of it (which are the agonies of the soul, without any mixture of support) and in the duration; it is eternal death, dying the death, to die and to be always dying. This is hurtful indeed, fatally hurtful, to all who fall under it. (3.) From this hurtful, this destructive death, Christ will save all his faithful servants; the second death shall have no power over those who are partakers of the first resurrection: the first death shall not hurt them, and the second death shall have no power over them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:8-11 The letter to the church in Smyrna pictures suffering Christians under intense pressures who need a message of assurance. Smyrna typifies a small church that remains faithful to God despite difficult circumstances. 2:8 The seaport village of Smyrna had been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Like Christ, the city had been dead but was now alive. It is the only city of the seven that has survived to this day (Izmir, Turkey).
Revelation 2:8
To the Church in Smyrna
7He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes, I will grant the right to eat from the tree of life in the Paradise of God. 8To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These are the words of the First and the Last, who died and returned to life.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Demonology) the Last of the Last Days
By Willie Mullan2.1K1:02:30Demonology2TI 3:6REV 2:8REV 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that we are on the verge of Christ's return and that anything could happen at any moment. He mentions the importance of being prepared for the end times and staying faithful to God. The preacher also discusses the presence of false teachers and scoffers who resist the truth. He encourages the audience to turn to the book of Exodus to understand the significance of these individuals and their actions. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance and the importance of staying rooted in the word of God.
Testimony of Jesus - Search for the Testimony
By Stephen Kaung1.3K1:15:15TestimonyEPH 2:1REV 1:13REV 2:8REV 2:12REV 2:18REV 3:1REV 3:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a vision of the Lord and the Church as God intends it to be. He refers to the seven golden landscapes representing the seven churches in Asia, which were meant to bear the testimony of Jesus. The speaker highlights that the Lord is constantly searching for his testimony among his people and measures the church based on it. He urges believers to repent if the testimony is distorted or lost and warns against substituting it with other things.
(Spiritual Preparedness #1) the Remnant Church
By Ed Miller1.3K52:43REV 1:18REV 2:1REV 2:8REV 2:12REV 22:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual readiness and being prepared for the coming of the Lord. The terminal point of the book of Revelation is highlighted, where Jesus declares that He is coming and urges the churches to be ready. The sermon begins by reading a passage from Revelation chapter 1, which describes the glorious appearance of Jesus and His imminent return. The speaker also emphasizes the need for total reliance on the Holy Spirit in studying God's Word and highlights the desire of God to reveal Himself to His people.
Never Afraid!
By Jim Cymbala92331:45FearMAT 6:33REV 2:8In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of American Christianity and its focus on material wealth and prosperity. He emphasizes that our net worth and possessions are temporary and can be taken away in an instant. The preacher urges the audience to consider their true riches towards God and the importance of being faithful to Jesus, even in the face of death. He highlights the sovereignty and power of God, stating that even Satan's attacks can be turned around for good. The sermon is based on the book of Revelation, specifically chapter 2, and encourages listeners to listen to what the Spirit is saying to the church.
Persecution, Purity and Power
By Shane Idleman52949:49ROM 2:29ROM 8:372CO 11:13JAS 1:12REV 2:8REV 2:10
This sermon delves into the themes of persecution, purity, and power as seen through the lens of the message to the church in Smyrna in Revelation 2. It emphasizes the importance of being open and teachable to hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches, highlighting the need for Christians to be ready to face trials and tribulations. The sermon also touches on the significance of poverty not equating to spiritual poverty, the impact of false believers in the church, and the necessity of overcoming in Christ to avoid the second death and judgment.
What Death Means
By Robert B. Thompson5231:06:29PSA 37:5PRO 3:5MAT 6:33ACT 1:1REV 2:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of committing one's way unto the Lord in practical terms. They emphasize that it is not just major decisions, but also minor ones that should be held before the Lord. The speaker references Psalm 37:5 and Proverbs 3:5-6 to support their point. They also highlight the idea that true value lies in treasures in heaven rather than earthly possessions, and that even in the face of adversity, Christians should remain steadfast and trust in God's wisdom and love.
(7 Churches) Smyrna, Faithful in Sufferings?
By Mark Greening7235:11Faithfulness in SufferingThe Richness of FaithREV 2:8Mark Greening emphasizes the significance of the last words of Jesus and their relevance to the church today, particularly focusing on the church of Smyrna, which faced persecution and poverty yet remained faithful. He highlights that true richness comes from faith in Christ rather than material wealth, and encourages believers to be steadfast in their faith despite trials, as Jesus walks among His churches and knows their struggles. Greening reminds the congregation that Jesus offers a crown of life to those who endure suffering for His name, urging them to reflect on their love for Christ and their commitment to the church.
Smyrna: Faithfulness in Suffering (Rev. 2:8-11)
By Mike Bickle1954:58Faithfulness in SufferingSpiritual RichnessREV 2:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the message to the church of Smyrna in Revelation 2:8-11, highlighting the importance of faithfulness amidst suffering and persecution. He reassures believers that Jesus, who understands their tribulations, calls them to remain steadfast and fearless, promising them the crown of life for their perseverance. Bickle explains that true wealth is found in spiritual richness rather than material possessions, and encourages the church to trust in God's sovereignty and grace during trials. He reminds them that their suffering is not in vain, as it brings glory to God and strengthens their faith.
Tested, Tried, Challenged & Changed
By Shane Idleman131:09:01The Role of MothersTrials and TransformationREV 2:8Shane Idleman emphasizes the transformative power of trials and challenges in the Christian life, warning that many remain stagnant due to bitterness and unforgiveness. He highlights the vital role of mothers, especially in today's society, and encourages single mothers by affirming that with God, they can create a strong family unit. Idleman also addresses the spiritual warfare faced by believers, urging them to stand firm in their faith amidst societal pressures and to recognize the importance of a solid foundation in Christ. He concludes with a call to action for all to seek God earnestly, reminding them that true strength and courage come from Him.
Persecution, Purity, & Power (Revelation 2:8-26)
By Shane Idleman1049:49Perseverance in FaithSpiritual Wealth vs. Material PovertyREV 2:8Shane Idleman delivers a powerful sermon on 'Persecution, Purity, & Power,' focusing on the message to the church in Smyrna from Revelation 2:8-26. He emphasizes the importance of being open and teachable to God's voice, as well as the distinction between spiritual wealth and material poverty. Idleman discusses the inevitability of persecution for those who are faithful to Christ, highlighting that true spirituality is not measured by wealth but by reliance on God. He warns against false teachings and encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, reminding them that overcoming trials leads to spiritual growth and the promise of eternal life. The sermon calls for a deeper relationship with Christ, urging listeners to prepare for both the first and second deaths.
The Same, the First and the Last
By H.J. Vine0ISA 41:4ISA 44:6ISA 48:12REV 1:17REV 2:8REV 22:13H.J. Vine preaches about the importance of calling upon the Lord out of a pure heart, following righteousness, faith, love, and peace, especially in difficult times as foretold in 2 Timothy 3:1. The sermon emphasizes the need for believers to maintain simplicity and grow in the knowledge of the Lord, focusing on calling upon the Lord Himself sincerely and intelligently, seeking a fuller knowledge of Christ for eternal blessings. The message highlights the desire for believers to know the Lord habitually and intelligently, seeking a deeper relationship with Him.
The Seven Churches
By W.J. Erdman0REV 1:9REV 2:1REV 2:8REV 2:12REV 2:18REV 3:1REV 3:7REV 3:14W.J. Erdman preaches on the powerful vision of Christ among the churches in the Book of Revelation, emphasizing His presence and authority over the Universal Church. The vision reveals Christ's priestly and judicial role, offering praise, warnings, and promises to the churches. The seven letters to the churches address specific commendations, rebukes, and promises, reflecting the various conditions of the historic and present-day church. Each letter follows a structured format, highlighting the Author's description, praise or censure, words of encouragement or warning, and promises to the overcomers.
Believers in Smyrna: The Suffering Church
By Phil Beach Jr.0MAT 5:112TI 3:12JAS 1:121PE 4:12REV 2:8Phil Beach Jr. preaches on the church in Smyrna from the book of Revelation, highlighting their commendable qualities and the suffering they endured for their faith. Jesus warns that His faithful followers will face persecution, trials, and even death for His sake, but promises the crown of life to those who remain faithful. The believers in Smyrna were praised for their works that were rooted in God's love, their endurance through tribulation and poverty, and their refusal to deny Christ despite facing slander and persecution from those who opposed them.
Genesis: The Beginning and End
By H.J. Vine0JHN 20:221CO 15:45COL 1:15REV 2:8REV 21:6H.J. Vine preaches about the parallel between the first man, Adam, and Joseph in the book of Genesis, both experiencing rejection, suffering, and ultimately rising to honor and exaltation. He draws a comparison to Christ as the true Joseph, rejected and crucified, but raised from the dead to become the Lord and Savior, settling His people in the true promised land. Christ is portrayed as the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, with pre-eminence in all things, offering life and power through the Holy Spirit.
(The Lord and His Church) 5. the Suffering Church
By Zac Poonen0ISA 49:15MAT 24:22LUK 21:26ACT 4:31ROM 8:28PHP 1:12JAS 1:151PE 2:12REV 2:8REV 13:16Zac Poonen preaches about the church in Smyrna facing tribulation, poverty, and slander, highlighting the importance of seeing the Lord as the One in control and the need for faithful endurance in the midst of trials. He emphasizes that tribulation is part of God's will for His wholehearted children and that God allows His best to face suffering. Poonen also discusses the poverty of the saints, contrasting earthly wealth with heavenly riches, and the need for believers to use their resources for God's kingdom. Additionally, he addresses the slander faced by God's faithful children and the freedom from fear that comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit. Lastly, he explores the concept of suffering according to God's plan, encouraging believers to be faithful even unto death to receive the crown of life and escape the second death.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Unto the angel - This was probably the famous Polycarp. See below. These things saith the first and the last - He who is eternal; from whom all things come, and to whom all things must return. Which was dead, for the redemption of the world; and is alive to die no more for ever, his glorified humanity being enthroned at the Father's right hand.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Smyrna--in Ionia, a little to the north of Ephesus. POLYCARP, martyred in A.D. 168, eighty-six years after his conversion, was bishop, and probably "the angel of the Church in Smyrna" meant here. The allusions to persecutions and faithfulness unto death accord with this view. IGNATIUS [The Martyrdom of Ignatius 3], on his way to martyrdom in Rome, wrote to POLYCARP, then (A.D. 108) bishop of Smyrna; if his bishopric commenced ten or twelve years earlier, the dates will harmonize. TERTULLIAN [The Prescription against Heretics, 32], and IRENÆUS, who had talked with POLYCARP in youth, tell us POLYCARP was consecrated bishop of Smyrna by St. John. the first . . . the last . . . was dead . . . is alive--The attributes of Christ most calculated to comfort the Church of Smyrna under its persecutions; resumed from Rev 1:17-18. As death was to Him but the gate to life eternal, so it is to be to them (Rev 2:10-11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write,.... Of the city of Smyrna; see Gill on Rev 1:11. That there was a church of Christ here is not to be doubted, though by whom it was founded is not certain; very likely by the Apostle Paul, who was in those parts, and by whose means all Asia heard the Gospel of Christ, Act 19:10. Some think the present angel or pastor of this church, was Polycarp, the disciple of John. Irenaeus (f), who knew him, says he was appointed bishop of Smyrna by the apostles. Here he suffered martyrdom, and was buried: the large amphitheatre, in which he was put to death, is still to be seen, and his sepulchre is yet preserved in this place (g): a very famous epistle, sent by this church at Smyrna to the churches at Pontus, giving an account of the martyrdom of Polycarp, and others, is extant in Eusebius (h). According to the Apostolical Constitutions (i), the first bishops of Smyrna were Aristo Strataeas and Aristo the second, and Apelles, of whom mention is made in Rom 16:10; and who is reckoned among the seventy disciples; See Gill on Luk 10:1; and is said to be bishop of Smyrna before Polycarp; who succeeded Polycarp, I do not find; but it is said there was a church at Smyrna in the "third" century; and so there was in the beginning of the "fourth", since there was a bishop from hence in the council at Nice: and in the "fifth" century, mention is made of several bishops of this place; as of Cyrus, a native of Constantinople; and Protherius, who, it is thought, succeeded him, and was present in the synod at Chalcedon; and Aethericus, who assisted at three synods in this century, at Constantinople, Ephesus, and Chalcedon: and in the "sixth" century, there was a bishop of Smyrna in the fifth synod held at Rome and Constantinople: and even in the "eighth" century, one Antony, a monk, supplied the place of the bishop of Smyrna in the Nicene synod (k). The Turks have in this place now thirteen mosques, the Jews two synagogues, and of the Christians there are two churches belonging to the Greeks, and one to the Armenians (l). This church, and its pastor, represent the state of the church under the persecutions of the Roman emperors. Smyrna signifies "myrrh", which being bitter of taste, is expressive of the bitter afflictions, and persecutions, and deaths, the people of God in this interval endured; and yet, as myrrh is of a sweet smell, so were those saints, in their sufferings for Christ, exceeding grateful and well pleasing to him; wherefore nothing is said by way of complaint to this church; not that she was without fault, but it was proper to use her tenderly in her afflicted state: and, as Dr. More observes, as myrrh was used in the embalming of dead bodies, it may point to the many deaths and martyrdoms of the saints in this period, whereby their names and memories are perpetuated and eternized, These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive. Of these characters of Christ; see Gill on Rev 1:8, Rev 1:11, Rev 1:17, Rev 1:18; and they are very appropriately mentioned, to encourage the saints under their sufferings of death; since Christ, who is the eternal God, had in human nature tasted of the bitterness of death for them, and was risen again; suggesting, that though they were called to undergo the bitterest deaths for his sake, they should be raised again as he was, and live with him for ever. The Ethiopic version reads, "thus saith the holy Spirit"; but it cannot be said of him that "he was dead", (f) Adv. Haeres. l. 3. c. 3. (g) Vid. Smith. Notitia septem Eccles. Asiae, p. 164, 165. (h) Hist. Eccles. l. 4. c. 15. (i) L. 7. c. 46. (k) Hist. Eccles. Magdeburg. cent. 3. c. p. 2. cent. 4. c. 2. p. 3. cent. 5. c. 2. p. 3. c. 10. p. 595, 596. cent. 6. c. 2. p. 4. cent. 8. c. 2. p. 4. (l) Smith. Notitia, p. 167.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We now proceed to the second epistle sent to another of the Asian churches, where, as before, observe, I. The preface or inscription in both parts. 1. The superscription, telling us to whom it was more expressly and immediately directed: To the angel of the church in Smyrna, a place well known at this day by our merchants, a city of great trade and wealth, perhaps the only city of all the seven that is still known by the same name, now however no longer distinguished for its Christian church being overrun by Mahomedism. 2. The subscription, containing another of the glorious titles of our Lord Jesus, the first and the last, he that was dead and is alive, taken out of Rev 1:17, Rev 1:18. (1.) Jesus Christ is the first and the last. It is but a little scantling of time that is allowed to us in this world, but our Redeemer is the first and the last. He is the first, for by him all things were made, and he was before all things with God and was God himself. he is the last, for all things are made for him, and he will be the Judge of all. This surely is the title of God, from everlasting and to everlasting, and it is the title of one that is an unchangeable Mediator between God and man, Jesus, the same yesterday, today, and for ever. He was the first, for by him the foundation of the church was laid in the patriarchal state; and he is the last, for by him the top-stone will be brought forth and laid in the end of time. (2.) He was dead and is alive. He was dead, and died for our sins; he is alive, for he rose again for our justification, and he ever lives to make intercession for us. He was dead, and by dying purchased salvation for us; he is alive, and by his life applies this salvation to us. And if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled by his death, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. His death we commemorate every sacrament day; his resurrection and life every sabbath day. II. The subject-matter of this epistle to Smyrna, where, after the common declaration of Christ's omniscience, and the perfect cognizance he has of all the works of men and especially of his churches, he takes notice, 1. Of the improvement they had made in their spiritual state. This comes in in a short parentheses; yet it is very emphatic: But thou art rich (Rev 2:10), poor in temporals, but rich in spirituals - poor in spirit, and yet rich in grace. Their spiritual riches are set off by their outward poverty. Many who are rich in temporals are poor in spirituals. Thus it was with the church of Laodicea. Some who are poor outwardly are inwardly rich, rich in faith and in good works, rich in privileges, rich in bonds and deeds of gift, rich in hope, rich in reversion. Spiritual riches are usually the reward of great diligence; the diligent hand makes rich. Where there is spiritual plenty, outward poverty may be better borne; and when God's people are impoverished in temporals, for the sake of Christ and a good conscience, he makes all up to them in spiritual riches, which are much more satisfying and enduring. 2. Of their sufferings: I know thy tribulation and thy poverty - the persecution they underwent, even to the spoiling of their goods. Those who will be faithful to Christ must expect to go through many tribulations; but Jesus Christ takes particular notice of all their troubles. In all their afflictions, he is afflicted, and he will recompense tribulation to those who trouble them, but to those that are troubled rest with himself. 3. He knows the wickedness and the falsehood of their enemies: I know the blasphemy of those that say they are Jews, but are not; that is, of those who pretend to be the only peculiar covenant-people of God, as the Jews boasted themselves to be, even after God had rejected them; or of those who would be setting up the Jewish rites and ceremonies, which were now not only antiquated, but abrogated; these may say that they only are the church of God in the world, when indeed they are the synagogue of Satan. Observe, (1.) As Christ has a church in the world, the spiritual Israel of God, so the devil has his synagogue. Those assemblies which are set up in opposition to the truths of the gospel, and which promote and propagate damnable errors, - those which are set up in opposition to the purity and spirituality of gospel worship, and which promote and propagate the vain inventions of men and rites and ceremonies which never entered into the thoughts of God, - these are all synagogues of Satan: he presides over them, he works in them, his interests are served by them, and he receives a horrid homage and honour from them. (2.) For the synagogues of Satan to give themselves out to be the church or Israel of God is no less than blasphemy. God is greatly dishonoured when his name is made use of to promote and patronize the interests of Satan; and he has a high resentment of this blasphemy, and will take a just revenge on those who persist in it. 4. He foreknows the future trials of his people, and forewarns them of them, and fore-arms them against them. (1.) He forewarns them of future trials: The devil shall cast some of you into prison, and you shall have tribulation, Rev 2:10. The people of God must look for a series and succession of troubles in this world, and their troubles usually rise higher. They had been impoverished by their tribulations before; now they must be imprisoned. Observe, It is the devil that stirs up his instruments, wicked men, to persecute the people of God; tyrants and persecutors are the devil's tools, though they gratify their own sinful malignity, and know not that they are actuated by a diabolical malice. (2.) Christ fore-arms them against these approaching troubles, [1.] By his counsel: Fear none of these things. This is not only a word of command, but of efficacy, no, only forbidding slavish fear, but subduing it and furnishing the soul with strength and courage. [2.] By showing them how their sufferings would be alleviated and limited. First, They should not be universal. It would be some of them, not all, who should be cast into prison, those who were best able to bear it and might expect to be visited and comforted by the rest. Secondly, They were not to be perpetual, but for a set time, and a short time: Ten days. It should not be everlasting tribulation, the time should be shortened for the elect's sake. Thirdly, It should be to try them, not to destroy them, that their faith, and patience, and courage, might be proved and improved, and be found to honour and glory. [3.] By proposing and promising a glorious reward to their fidelity: Be thou faithful to death, and I will give thee a crown of life. Observe, First, The sureness of the reward: I will give thee. He has said it that is able to do it; and he has undertaken that he will do it. They shall have the reward from his own hand, and none of their enemies shall be able to wrest it out of his hand, or to pull it from their heads. Secondly, The suitableness of it. 1. A crown, to reward their poverty, their fidelity, and their conflict. 2. A crown of life, to reward those who are faithful even unto death, who are faithful till they die, and who part with life itself in fidelity to Christ. The life so worn out in his service, or laid down in his cause, shall be rewarded with another and a much better life that shall be eternal. III. The conclusion of this message, and that, as before, 1. With a call to universal attention, that all men, all the world, should hear what passes between Christ and his churches - how he commends them, how he comforts them, how he reproves their failures, how he rewards their fidelity. It concerns all the inhabitants of the world to observe God's dealings with his own people; all the world may learn instruction and wisdom thereby. 2. With a gracious promise to the conquering Christian: He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death, Rev 2:11. Observe, (1.) There is not only a first, but a second death, a death after the body is dead. (2.) This second death is unspeakably worse than the first death, both in the dying pangs and agonies of it (which are the agonies of the soul, without any mixture of support) and in the duration; it is eternal death, dying the death, to die and to be always dying. This is hurtful indeed, fatally hurtful, to all who fall under it. (3.) From this hurtful, this destructive death, Christ will save all his faithful servants; the second death shall have no power over those who are partakers of the first resurrection: the first death shall not hurt them, and the second death shall have no power over them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:8-11 The letter to the church in Smyrna pictures suffering Christians under intense pressures who need a message of assurance. Smyrna typifies a small church that remains faithful to God despite difficult circumstances. 2:8 The seaport village of Smyrna had been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Like Christ, the city had been dead but was now alive. It is the only city of the seven that has survived to this day (Izmir, Turkey).