Although the church in Smyrna may not have looked like much on the surface, Jesus’ evaluation of it was wholly positive. He did not tone down his description of what the believers were about to suffer, but he pointed to the way to face all the challenges of life and death without fear and full of faith. Although we may never have to face what those early Christians faced, we all have to live, and we all have to die, so Jesus’ words to the church in Smyrna in Revelation 2:8-11 are words for us today as well.
In two more cities, Paul and Barnabas preached the gospel boldly, which resulted in many new believers and violent opposition.
If you have ever asked what God wants you to do, the whole letter of James will help answer your question. The final section,...
The Son of God shared in our flesh and blood, took our humanity, became like us in every essential way, and can help us...