Revelation 2 Part 2
Pastor Wes Denham
Pastor Wes walks through Revelation 2:8–11, Jesus’ message to the church in Smyrna—a persecuted yet spiritually rich congregation. Unlike the other churches, Smyrna receives no correction. Instead, Jesus commends their endurance and warns of coming persecution. Pastor Wes highlights Smyrna’s refusal to worship the Roman emperor, which cost them employment and social standing. He parallels this with modern pressures to conform culturally and spiritually.
Drawing from Scripture and historical context, Pastor Wes contrasts true spiritual wealth with worldly success. He illustrates faithfulness through the stories of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, the persecuted early church, and modern examples of Christians who refused to bow to cultural idols. Pastor Wes also emphasizes the role of tithing, not as law, but as worship and trust in God.
The sermon closes with encouragement: Christ is the First and Last who overcame death, and He promises a crown of life to those who endure. True riches are found in obedience and spiritual faithfulness, not material gain.
In Revelation 2:8–11, Pastor Wes teaches on Jesus’ letter to the persecuted church in Smyrna. Though materially poor, they are called “rich” in faith. Pastor Wes challenges believers to stand strong under cultural pressure, avoid compromise, and stay faithful—even to death. The message reminds us that Jesus is in control, and those who overcome will not be hurt by the second death.