Mac begins by expressing gratitude for the living hope found in Christ, emphasizing the importance of hope throughout Scripture and church history. He introduces the church in Smyrna, a community that faced significant persecution, and highlights their unwavering faith despite tribulations. Mac reads from Revelation 2, where the church is reminded not to fear suffering and to remain faithful unto death for the promise of eternal life. He discusses the historical context of Smyrna, representing the early centuries of the church, and the ebb and flow of faith during times of persecution. Mac shares stories of martyrs like Blandino and Perpetua, who exemplified extraordinary faith and courage in the face of death. He notes that persecution often strengthened the church, while internal corruption posed a greater threat. Mac emphasizes the need for believers to remain faithful and vigilant against both external and internal challenges, encouraging a deeper relationship with Christ. He concludes with a prayer for the church to hear and respond to the Spirit's guidance, urging believers to be faithful in their walk with the Lord.
8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; 9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. 10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. 11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. 20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me.
9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.