Call to be Faithful - Smyrna

Intro:

Smyrna - one of the greatest cities of the region

Natural advantages - harbour protected by gulf,

Was destroyed in 580 B.C. but was rebuilt in 290 BC - one of the few planned cities of antiquity

Many commented on its beauty

One of the first cities to worship the Roman emperor; erected a temple to him during the reign of Tiberius.

Faithful ally of Rome before Rome was acknowledged in the region - its loyalty meant something

Writer:

Who wrote this letter? Jesus

How did He identify Himself? First and Last; Who died and came to life

*How appropriate that this reference is made to a city who also experienced death and was brought back to life

God’s call to the church is faithfulness

How?

Concepts

Remember:

Jesus knows right where you are

tribulation - Afflictions (thlipsis) - serious trouble - now and future

Smyrna - depleted

Its only for a limited time

Psalm 30:5 NIV

5 For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

Remain Faithful

To God, His Word, His call

Then you will receive what He has in store for you

James 1:12 NLT

12 God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

Conclusion:

What would it look like now for the Church today?

Continue to serve God; being part of the body; continue to serve

Keeping focused on God:

Not political parties

Not on conspiracies ( which has no sure foundation)

Not on negativity