Pastor Luther Walker continues his study of Revelation chapter 2, focusing on the historical periods of the church on earth. He reviews the church in Smyrna (AD 70–312), marked by ten periods of intense persecution that nearly destroyed the church but strengthened its doctrine. Satan’s use of death failed as believers, no longer fearing it due to their hope in Christ, became faithful unto death and received the crown of life.
The crown of life is for overcomers—believers who have trusted Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Other crowns believers can earn by yielding to the Holy Spirit include: the incorruptible crown (self-control, 1 Cor. 9:25), the crown of life for enduring temptation (James 1:12), the crown of righteousness for those who love Christ’s appearing (2 Tim. 4:8), the crown of rejoicing for soul-winning (1 Thess. 2:19; Phil. 4:1), and the crown of glory for faithful pastors (1 Pet. 5:4). These rewards result from living out what Christ has already provided, not self-effort.
For overcomers, the second death has no power. The first resurrection includes church-age believers, Old Testament saints, and Tribulation saints; the second resurrection and second death (lake of fire) apply to the unsaved (Rev. 20:6, 14; 21:8).
The message shifts to the church in Pergamos (approx. AD 312–606), where Satan’s throne was located. Believers held fast amid martyrdom (Antipas), yet the doctrine of Balaam (merchandising the saints for gain, loving unrighteous wages) and the doctrine of the Nicolaitans (hierarchy separating clergy from laity) entered. Constantine’s Edict of Milan (313), state patronage, and the Council of Nicaea (325) integrated the church with the Roman state, leading to political corruption. Christ calls for repentance or He will fight with the sword of His mouth. Overcomers receive hidden manna, a white stone of vindication, and a new personal name known only to God.
The church in Thyatira represents the rise of Catholicism as the dominant expression of Christianity. Christ, with eyes like flame and feet like fine brass, commends their growing works, love, service, faith, and patience. Yet He rebukes tolerance of “Jezebel,” who promoted spiritual fornication and idolatry—mixing pagan practices (e.g., elements in Christmas and Easter), worship of Mary and saints, and merchandising. Good contributions from this period include hospitals, orphanages, universities, systematic charity, and early scientific methodology rooted in studying creation. However, the church is called to child-training discipline so it will not be condemned with the world. Overcomers who reject these evils will be rewarded.
