2. Smyrna. Vs. 8-11. Smyrna is still a city. It has been called "the beautiful," "the Paris of the Levant." This church receives commendation. It had some trials and met them. "I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan." Judaizers they were no doubt; evidence that Jerusalem had not yet fallen since the Judaizing activities had not yet ceased. "The devil will cast some of you into prison and ye shall have tribulation." Polycarp, the martyr, was bishop of Smyrna. The prophecy came true and no doubt in many more instances unrecorded. In addressing this church, Christ gives himself the title, "the first and the last which was dead and is alive." Perhaps this was to present the Christian fact in opposition to the fable that the idol Dionysus at Smyrna had been killed and came to life again. The practical lesson to observe in closing is that this city which had a faithful church was saved from destruction. Smyrna still stands.