What Today’s Church Can Learn from the Ancient Church
And overcoming “cosmic powers” to write this article.
This past weekend, we flew to Texas for a family gathering. While there, we thought it would be nice for the family to attend church together, so on Sunday we met up for breakfast then headed to church. We heard an excellent sermon I wanted to share with you all.
However, actually writing the article proved challenging when the following occurred:
My laptop keyboard mysteriously stopped working. I purchased a cheap keyboard only to discover the keyboard and laptop had different USB ports. We then searched for a USB adaptor for two days — and finally found it in a store’s automotive section!
An hour later, I struck a key on my broken keyboard — and watched in disbelief as characters appeared! Just as mysteriously, it had started working again.
We got Covid, were stranded for days, spent six hours updating flights, and our hotel had no hot water for 24 hours!
I suspect these crazy issues were the result of unseen “cosmic powers” at play in this fallen world perhaps trying to interfere with producing an article. That’s how I knew the Sunday sermon was definitely a good thing to write about . . .
Pastor Mark Forrest, in Granbury, Texas, spoke on the Smyrna Church mentioned in Revelation 2:8-11. (It’s worth reading if you have time.) He discussed the persecution they faced and what we can learn from those faithful Christians in the early church.
Christians in Smyrna suffered extreme persecution but would not refute their faith. As a result, they lost their jobs, their money, and their livelihood. They were left destitute. Ultimately, many were martyred in the most horrific of ways.
Of seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation, only Smyrna and one other received praise from the Lord for their faithful fortitude. Below is the passage regarding Smyrna:
I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! Do not be afraid . . . be faithful . . . and I will give you life as your victor’s crown. (Rev. 2:8-10)
The Pastor also told the story of Polycarp, the Bishop of Smyrna. He was brutally martyred for his faith in 156 AD. When the Roman Proconsul pleaded with the old man to save his life by simply giving allegiance to Caesar, he refused to honor anyone above his Lord and Savior. Here’s how Saint Polycarp responded:
If you imagine that I will swear by Caesar, you do not know who I am. Let me tell you plainly, I am a Christian.
We also learned “Smyrna” is synonymous with the word “myrrh” — one of three gifts the Wise Men brought Jesus. Used for burials in Biblical times, it portended Christ’s suffering for our sins. Interestingly, when crushed, myrrh gives off a sweet aroma. The Smyrna Church exemplified this beautifully in name and action.
The Pastor provided the following application lessons.
When we live faithful lives, we should expect to run into headwinds sent from the Evil One. Rather than becoming discouraged, be encouraged. It demonstrates we are indeed walking according to the Lord’s will.
Try not blaming others but remember who sends difficulties (the Evil One) and why (to go after God’s children).
Your Heavenly Father knows exactly what you’re going through. In the end, the “wicked schemes” will “not succeed.”
Adversity does not weaken but strengthens God’s people. It grows God’s Church.
Christians in some countries still face loss of life, and we should pray for them.
What about faith challenges in America today?
Adding my personal reflection to this topic, we sadly see religious intolerance in our Nation. There are repeated examples of religious harassment, antisemitism, and vandalism to churches, Christian charities, and synagogues. Our family has unfortunately witnessed people having to choose between faith and their livelihood.
Whether this sounds familiar or surprising depends where you call home. Wherever we live, we mustn’t settle into easier lives as culture spirals. Pray for America. Teach kids to love and follow God. Be aware of cultural elements that counter God’s Word. Ensure truth is first heard from you instead of filtered through the world’s perspective.
Getting back to last Sunday’s church message . . .
The Pastor explained the ancient city of Smyrna is now known as Izmir. It is the third largest city in Turkey and located on the southwest coast.
Despite the persecution of Smyrna Christians almost 2,000 years ago, the Christian community persevered. God’s Church was not destroyed but continued. Even though crushed, the sweet aroma of their faithfulness survived as evidenced by numerous Christian churches of various denominations in the city of Izmir today.
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
Lovely churches in Izmir. I am sorry about all the troubles you had but definitely think you had the key to them. God is faithful to us at all times... even when it's hard to see!
There’s so much about this piece I appreciate, Hilary. While at times we run into all sorts of perplexing difficulties, it is so very Important to Understand Them as Common in This World and the Believer’s Life. And secondly, while we are in the midst of these challenges, sometimes profound, to avoid Blaming Others.
Lastly When We Focus on the Beautiful Churches in Present day Izmir we are Reminded of His Faithfulness along with Their Forbearance 🙏🏼