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Faithful Until Death
This statement had a very diferent meaning at the time it was spoken than today. At the time of John's writing Christianity was illegal and Emperor worship was compulsory under the threat of death. "I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich), and the blasphemy by those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan," Revelation 2:9 (NAS95). Jesus knew the extreme difficult culture where they lived. Christians were forced to suffer severe persecution and tribulation that effected every facet of their lives. Because Christianity was illegal, they were often thrown in prison, businesses were taken which left them in poverty and many were killed. Those who had no integrity simply burned a pinch of incense to the emperor and went about their daily business."Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life" Revelation 2:10 (NAS95).
This verse carried a different meaning for the first century Christians in Smyrna than it does for us today. We currently have little fear of losing our business, our job or homes. We do not face persecution, tribulations, or the greatest fear — of losing — our lives for the cause of Christ. In 21st century America we have the freedom to assemble for worship, singing, and Bible study without fear of persecution.
The question for us today: How much more does God expect from us to remain faithful than from the Smyrna Christians of 1st century?
"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death," Revelation 2:11 (NAS95). Jesus used a similar phase in the gospels, Matthew 11:15, 13:9, and Luke 8:8. If you have ears ——listen! Some have become dull of hearing (Acts 28:27) while others have itching ears (2 Timothy 4:3).
Our challenge today is to LISTEN to God's word and follow His instructions to overcome and escape the "second death" which is the lake of fire burning with brimstone.
"Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life" Revelation 2:10 (NAS95).
