Dynamic Life Baptist Ministries - Pastor Victor Clay

Sermon Title: The Suffering Church
Sermon Text: Revelation 2:8-11
Sermon Purpose: To call the hearer to be a dynamic witness for Jesus Christ through all trials, troubles, and tribulations of life.
Sermon Proposition: There are 4 exhortations given to the suffering church.

8 "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, 'These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: 9 "I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death."' Revelation 2:8-11 (NKJV)

Introduction: The Church in Smyrna (Additional information)

1. The consolation to the suffering church. v.8 (John 8:58; John 17:24; John 5:24; Romans 8:28, 35, 37-39)
   
   

2. The commendations of the suffering church. v.9

   • This was a church standing under intense pressure. v.9a

   • The church refused to offer sacrifices and worship to the Emperor.

   • The church refused to participate in pagan religions (Matthew 10:17-18)

   • This was a church standing under intense poverty. v.9b (1 John 2:22-23; Hebrews 11:24-26, 36-37)

   • This was a church standing under intense profanity. v.9c

   • Accused of cannibalism based on the Lord's Supper.

   • Accused of immorality based on the Holy kiss.

   • Accused of breaking up homes.

   • Accused of atheism.

   • Accused of political disloyalty and rebellion. (Luke 21:12; John 15:20; Philippians 1:29)

   
   

3. The command to the suffering church. v.10a

   • The church is commanded not to fear suffering

   • The church is called to suffering.

   • The church is commissioned to endure suffering (1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Peter 2:9; Philippians 3:8)

   
   

4. The counsel to the suffering church. v.10b-11

   • The suffering church is promised the crown of life. (John 17:3; 1 John 2:25)

   • The suffering church is promised safety from eternal torment. (2 Corinthians 4:17; Revelation 20:14)