April 3: MEETING THE NEED
“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.” Revelation 2:9
The main hub of Jewish life was the synagogue. By definition, it was the place of assembly for worship on the Sabbath, as well as being open on a daily basis for fellowship, learning, and tending to legal matters. You can be sure that Satan has a convincing, counterfeit way of securing for himself all the trappings of religion, training, fellowship, and an entire society that is either clueless to the deception or well aware yet goes along with it.
The Lord’s archenemy has been long exposed for his desire to be in the place of God (Isaiah 14:13-14). By being the accuser of our brethren (Revelation 12:10), he thinks to elevate himself as judge, as well as incite hatred toward commandment-honoring believers. The same spirit that animated the accusers of Jesus and Stephen on trumped-up charges of blasphemy is at work against the church in Smyrna. But, in reality, those who say they are Jews and are not are the blasphemous ones. Counterfeit Jews they are! But he is a [real] Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God. (Romans 2:29)
Jesus knows the dire poverty and tribulations of the church in Smyrna. But, OH! What a praise to be told by Him, “but you are rich”! “I know your works” said Jesus. Rich indeed—with love and loyalty! Notwithstanding being surrounded by trouble, Jesus knew their works: these faithful ones endeavored to live for their Savior, winning precious souls in the process.
The counterfeit Jews’ blasphemy included stirring up the pagans against the Christians by spreading lies, charging them with cannibalism and disloyalty to the Roman government. It follows that the state authorities were incited against them. The suffering, hardships, and martyrdom among the faithful in Smyrna may be difficult for us to grasp; but beloved, we must never assume that the situation will not be repeated. Such an assumption only prolongs spiritual immaturity while allowing for character flaws to go uncorrected, cloaking a lack of self- discipline, and failure to discern Satan’s subtle tactics.
With a keen awareness of reality and total surrender to the leadership of the Holy Spirit, God’s people can winsomely engage, winning many to the side of righteousness. Beloved, do you truly desire to be God’s instrument in winning the lost? If so, you will be supplied with the opportunity to speak and act in a winsome way. Just ask!
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19