Revelation 2:8-11
Today Pastor Lyle will continue a series of sermons on the letters written by Jesus in the first century to seven different churches and recorded in Rev. 2 and 3. We’ll look at the second letter this morning, which was written to the church in Smyrna and spoke to the difficulty the church was facing as a result of their faithfulness to Jesus in the midst of significant opposition. In addressing a situation most would describe as poverty, Jesus affirmed the richness of their relationship with Him, both in its very real future hope and in the presence and sovereignty of God in the midst of their present struggle.
Apply
- How does this letter provide encouragement to us when we face significant challenges as a result of staying faithful to Christ?
- The letter describes Jesus as the One who came to life again. How does the reality of Christ’s resurrection speak to any suffering that occurs within our fallen world?
Pray
- Ask God to work in your heart and in the hearts of all who will be attending our services online or in person today.
- Pray that those who are new to the church will be welcomed and find meaningful relationships.
- Pray for our Children’s Ministry Pastor, Jerilyn Bayer.
- Pray for the Children’s Ministry Associate, Annette Faszer. Pray for the Children’s Ministry Assistants: Abigail, Amelia, Blythe, Clarissa, Domina, Jenna, Sarah, and Sunita.