Message to Smyrna

The central section of the message to Smyrna consists of two mini-paragraphs set out in parallels. The first is arranged in six segments, as follows:

a. affliction

b. and poverty

c. but ( alla ) you are rich

a’. blasphemy from self-designated Jews

b’. and they are not

c’. but ( alla ) a synagogue of Satan

This structure underscores the nature of the tribulation that the church at Smyrna has so far endured. They are blasphemed and slandered, but are not yet suffering physically. But that’s coming. The following section is laid out in a five-segment scheme, divided by two imperatives:

a. do not fear (impv.) things you are going to suffer

b. devil is going to throw you into prison

c. 10-day tribulation

a’. become faithful (impv.) unto death

b’. I will give a crown of life

This structure places the unique section “c” at the center. The hinge of Jesus’ instruction is the fact that the church will suffer tribulation for only ten days. The structure also highlights the contrast between what the devil gives and what Jesus gives. Satan strips and casts down, Jesus elevates and crowns. But the thrower will be thrown: At the end of Revelation, after ten days of tribulation, the devil who casts Jesus’ disciples into prison will himself be cast into the lake of fire (20:10), while the saints receive their crowns and reign with Jesus.