Day 06 - Pergamum, Smyrna

RESTORING POWER.

Today, we studied two more of the Seven Churches of Revelation (Pergamum and Smyrna) as we talked about restoring real power. We began our day by visiting what Jesus called, “Satan’s throne.” We played a game throughout the morning to determine which site Jesus was specifically talking about in Pergamum—possibly the temple to Athena or the Pergamum Library, maybe the temple of Trajan or the Asclepion, or is it the altar to Zeus? I’ll let your loved one share the answer with you. :) The hint is that it has everything to do with power. After we determined what Jesus was talking about, we studied the letter Jesus wrote to the church in Pergamum and applied what we learned in a meaningful way. Great insights from the team!

After a quick lunch, we made our way to Smyrna where we continued to be reminded of how intimately Jesus knows the local expressions of His global Church. He writes each church with incredible contextual application and He speaks to us in the same way. After seeing the city, we studied how the church of Smyrna was horribly persecuted and “crushed” (the very meaning of “myrrh” in the name Smyrna), yet Jesus considered them rich. Our view of ourselves is far less important than God’s view of us because He has real power and authority. Therefore, we have no reason to fear and every reason to stand firm in the grace of Jesus. We wrapped up our time in Smyrna by studying Polycarp, the former bishop of the church here who was dramatically martyred for his faith in the person and power of Jesus. The reality is that we may never die a martyr’s death, but we’re all called to live a martyr’s life. 

Throughout the day, we had tremendous discussions about the Gospel of Jesus and what real power looks like. It’s been a great day! Only one person on our team felt a little ill, but she’s feeling better now. The team continues to be hungry for the Word and opening up about their lives. Please pray for them as we make our way to our hotel to rest and recover!

Thank you so much.

Tommy