The Persecuted Church

“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write…” – Revelation 2:8

In Revelation 2:8–11, Jesus speaks to the church in Smyrna, a congregation facing intense persecution and poverty. Yet He says, “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich)” (Revelation 2:9, NKJV). What a powerful reminder that earthly lack does not equal spiritual loss. Smyrna was crushed by opposition, yet Christ saw their faith as treasure. He doesn’t promise escape—He promises endurance. “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer… Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (v.10). Their suffering wasn’t forgotten. It was seen, measured, and would be rewarded.

This message echoes the lives of many faithful saints who endured hardship for the sake of Christ. Think of Stephen, the first martyr, who saw heaven open as stones rained down. Or Daniel, who stood firm in Babylon and was delivered from lions. The church in Smyrna was walking a similar path—faithful in the fire. Jesus doesn’t rebuke them. He encourages them. He reminds them that the second death will not touch them. Their suffering had purpose. Their pain had a finish line. And their faith would be crowned. In a world that often equates blessing with comfort, Smyrna reminds us that true riches are found in faithfulness.

So what does this mean for us today? It means we don’t measure our spiritual health by our circumstances. You may be facing trials, rejection, or loss—but if you’re clinging to Christ, you are rich. Don’t fear the fire. Jesus walks in it with you. Be faithful. Hold fast. The crown of life isn’t given to the comfortable—it’s given to the committed. Let Smyrna’s story stir your courage. Let it remind you that suffering for Christ is never wasted. And let it push you to live with eternity in view. The crown is coming. Stay faithful.

“The church in Smyrna was poor in worldly goods but rich in faith. Jesus didn’t promise to remove their suffering—He promised to walk with them through it and reward their faithfulness.”
— Joe Stowell