The First, the Last, and the Crown | Revelation 2:8–11

Outline:

I. The Sovereign Victor Knows Our Suffering (v8-9)

II. The Call for Fearless Testing (v10a)

III. The Crown of Life Awaits! (v10b-11)

Personal Reflection & Small Group Questions

Please complete this study on your own, then bring it to your small group for discussion.

1. Looking back over your notes from this week’s sermon and text, what particularly caught your attention, challenged or confused you?

2. Think of a time you experienced discouragement, persecution or suffering., What encouragement did you need? How do Jesus’ words to the church at Smyrna encourage you?

3. This letter starts with Jesus’s resurrection. Read 1 Corinthians 15 and consider how it relates. What are the implications of Jesus’s resurrection for the Christian life?

4. What does it look like to Christians to dwell in unity even when they have disagreements?

5. Is suffering always a bad thing for the church? How can it be a bless?

6. Looking back over this week’s sermon and study, what one thing is most important for you to remember and apply?