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#2 Smyrna
To the angel of the assembly in Smyrna write: "The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life says these things: (Revelation 2:8)
I know your works, oppression, and your poverty (but you are rich), and the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews, and they are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Don't be afraid of the things which you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested; and you will have oppression for ten days. Be faithful to death, and I will give you the crown of life. (Revelation 2:9-10)
He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. He who overcomes won't be harmed by the second death. (Revelation 2:11)
Why would Jesus being the first and last be highly helpful to these people?
Was dead and has come to life is extremely relevant to people suffering oppression, forced poverty and persecuted by hypocrites claiming to follow God. Fear is enemy number one when in this condition and is the spirit that must be faced head on in order to have hope and courage. Facing very possible death for remaining true and loyal to Jesus requires identification with Jesus who is the author of our faith.
In each of the messages we are invited to see various ways in which to identify with Jesus in whatever area of need we experience. Identification and identity is a central component of the war every one of us are caught up in. God's identity was the first to come under attack, and because we are created to reflect His image, our identity is just as much under assault as Satan continues to insist that his slander about God can be proven true by the way we reflect Him.
From heaven's perspective things are opposite to what it often seems to us. Laodicea thinks they are rich while Smyrna feels poor.
Blasphemy can involve clinging to pagan notions of atonement to interpret the meaning of Christ's death.
A Jew is of the tribe of Judah. Satan masquerades as a lion of the tribe of Judah to save us, but his methods and spirit are opposite of the true Lion of Judah.
A synagogue of Satan would be a deceptive counterfeit of the truth. It could be authoritarian teaching for controlling the minds of others. It would be a base of false hope and doctrines that appear true but are based on fear, criticism and coercion.
They will put you out of the synagogues. Yes, the time comes that whoever kills you will think that he offers service to God. (John 16:2)
