In the book of Revelation, we find a series of powerful messages delivered by the Holy Spirit to seven churches. One of these was addressed to the Church in Smyrna and it’s this particular message that we are focusing on today.
“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. “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. 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. “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).
Being a follower of Christ in Smyrna was far from easy. Believers there faced heavy persecution simply for their faith. But, notice how Jesus comforts them – He reminds them that He is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. In other words, He has already conquered death, and He promises that those who stay faithful will share in that victory.
Jesus never said our spiritual journey would be easy. He warned us that there would be suffering, injustice, and trials. But He also promised that those who remain faithful to the end will receive the crown of life – a reward nothing in this world can offer. Most importantly, they will be spared from the second death.
Our physical bodies will not last forever. But our soul is eternal.
When our life here on earth ends, there are only two possible outcomes for our soul: either we will be with God in Heaven, or face eternal separation from Him. The second death refers to this eternal condemnation – a place the Bible describes as the lake of fire.
This is why the promise in Revelation is so vital: “The one who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death.” That’s God’s guarantee to those who believe and endure. We receive this promise when we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour and commit to following Him faithfully.
Everything else in life can wait. Your job, your goals, your plans – they’re all temporary. But your soul? That’s forever.
Make your salvation a priority. After all, there’s no greater deliverance than being saved from the second death.
This Wednesday, 6th August, we invite you to join us at a Universal Church near you for our School of Faith Bible Study as we explore this topic further.
Come and discover how to overcome and receive God’s promise of eternal life.
Event: The Night of Deliverance from the Second Death
Day and time: Wednesday 6th August at 7:30pm (also at 7am, 10am and 3pm)
Location: Your local Universal Church
