Smyrna the persecuted church

Revelation 2:8“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.” ’

Jesus relates better than anyone can, to this church. He was persecuted unto death but now is alive. This church was persecuted by 10 different Roman emperors. They were stripped of all and impoverished. But one thing they had over anything else, the crown of life. The second death is Gods great white throne judgement in which no believer will partake. The history of the church thru persecution has always caused it to explode in growth. There seems to be a purification that takes place which allows the world to see Jesus thru His church more clearly. Lots of things going on in churches across the world dont have one iota of Gods heart and characteristics. Be faithful unto death, its only the beginning to eternity. We will overcome because Jesus overcame.