The city of Smyrna was on the west coast of Asia minor. It was a beautiful and sophisticated city, loyal to Rome and the emperor. The leaders of Smyrna petitioned Rome for permission to build a temple to honor the deity-status of Emperor Tiberius—permission which was granted. Smyrna had a “crown of porticos,” a collection of beautiful public buildings encircling Mount Pagos like a crown.

The emperor-worshiping Roman population, along with a hostile Jewish community, made life as a Christian difficult in Smyrna. But Christ told the church in Smyrna they would receive a “crown of life” if they would persevere through their persecution—in contrast to the pagan “crown of porticos” of Smyrna. Paul had reminded the churches in Asia Minor that entrance to the Kingdom would only be through tribulations (Acts 14:22).

Entrust the troubles you are currently experiencing to Jesus, the One who knows what you are going through for His sake.

Persecution...is one of the marks of a converted man.
J. C. Ryle