The answer is: He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death

Rev 2 vs 11

In Revelation 2:11, the message to the church at Smyrna raises compelling themes of resilience and hope in the face of persecution. Imagine being part of a congregation that carved out faith amidst hardship, with threats from the Roman Empire lapping at their doors. Smyrna was a thriving port city known for its allegiance to Rome, which made Christian beliefs a distinct danger to uphold in everyday life.

The phrase “he that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death” promises not just a reprieve from earthly troubles but hints at eternal life beyond physical death. This idea of "second death” parallels other scriptures, such as John 5:24, which discusses eternal life and escaping condemnation. It's fascinating to note that the concept of an enduring vitality resonated deeply within early Christian communities facing the existential threats of their time.

Interestingly, Smyrna is often associated with a metaphorical ‘myrrh’—its name, after all, means ‘myrrh’ in Greek. This resin feels like a fitting image for believers transforming suffering into an uplifting story. While myrrh was a gift at Jesus’ birth, its association with death in burial rites serves to deepen our understanding of life's cycles, trials, and eventual victories. It's worth reflecting on what "overcoming" might look like in our lives today—yes, it pertains to faith confrontations, but what about social inequities or personal struggles?