2. THE CHURCH OF SMYRNA
T HE C HURCH OF S MYRNA 2. 2. Smyrna – The suffering Church (Revelation 2:8-11) -- the church that would suffer persecution (2:10). History of the City: The second church mentioned was in Smyrna. Smyrna was located north of Ephesus in a powerful trading position on the Aegean Sea known for its harbors, commerce, and marketplaces. The primary ruins of Smyrna are located in the modern Turkish city of Izmir. Scripture does not give us any information concerning the founding of this church, nor is it mentioned in the book of Acts. Presumably, this church was founded during Paul’s ministry in Ephesus (Acts 19:10). (Revelation 2:8) “And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;” There was no rebuke for this faithful church. They were encouraged to stay faithful, even when facing physical death. (Revelation 2:9) “I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the