Smyrna
Series: Seven Letters
Scripture: Revelation 2:8-11

Jesus never called us to _____________ Christianity. He called us to ______________ Him.

“To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again.” (v8)

Satan is _____________ in his attack.
• Cannot control their _______________ ___________________. (v9)

• Cannot control the ____________ of your suffering. (v10)

• Cannot ____________ your ____________ _________________ (v11)

Suffering tends to evoke one of two reactions in us: ________________ or _________________.
• 2 Corinthians 1:9
• John 16:33
• 1 Peter 2:20-21; 3:14; 4:12; 4:19; 5:10
• 2 Timothy 3:12
• The New Testament consistently emphasizes ____________ ______ suffering rather than ______________ ___________ suffering.

Luke 9:23-24:
• _____________________________
• _____________________________
• _____________________________

The church in Smyrna didn’t ____________ Christianity—they ___________ the cross. They didn’t ____________ comfort—they ____________ Christ.

Start talking:
• Growing up, what was your favorite TV show to watch when you were home sick or had a day off from school?
• Have you ever purchased something because you thought it would make you happier, only to discover it didn’t? What’d you learn?
• What stood out to you most from this week's message?

Start Thinking:
• Read Revelation 2:8-11.
• Why do you think Jesus introduces Himself to the church in Smyrna as “the First and the Last, who died and came to life again”?
• Jesus tells the believers they are materially poor but spiritually rich. How does that challenge the way our culture measures success?
• Pastor Troy highlighted three limits to Satan’s power. Which of these truths encourages you the most? Why?
• Why do you think Jesus offered the church in Smyrna encouragement instead of a promise that their suffering would end?

Start Sharing:
• Pastor Troy contrasted a consumer mindset with a disciple mindset. Where do you see consumer thinking creeping into Christianity today?
• Have you ever been tempted to evaluate church primarily by your preferences rather than by God's mission? What helps keep your perspective centered on Christ?
• When you've experienced suffering, did it draw you closer to God (dependency) or tempt you toward discouragement (disillusionment)? What made the difference?
• What current challenge or hardship is testing your faith? How can remembering Jesus’ faithfulness help you remain faithful?

Start Praying:
• For courage to remain faithful regardless of circumstances.
• For strength to endure trials without losing hope.
• For believers around the world who are experiencing persecution.
• That our church would become known not for comfort or convenience, but for faithful discipleship.

Start Doing:
• Read Luke 9:23-24. What does "taking up your cross daily" look like in your life right now?
• Pastor Troy ended with the question: "Is my life an acceptable offering to Jesus?" How would you answer that today?
• What's one area where Jesus may be asking you to choose faithfulness over comfort, convenience, or personal preference?
• How can your small group encourage one another to remain faithful when life becomes difficult?

Challenge for the Week:
Ask yourself this question every morning: “Today, will I choose comfort, or will I choose faithfulness?” Each day read Revelation 2:8-11 or Luke 9:23-24 and pray, “Jesus, help me follow You today, regardless of the cost.”