Olney Hymns · Chapter
Smyrna explained
This hymn reflects on the message to the church in Smyrna from Revelation, emphasizing Christ's encouragement to hold fast to faith despite persecution and poverty.
What happens
This hymn reflects on the message to the church in Smyrna from Revelation, emphasizing Christ's encouragement to hold fast to faith despite persecution and poverty. It reassures believers of Christ's presence, the temporary nature of suffering, and the promise of eternal life for those who remain faithful.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Affliction
The hymn acknowledges the church's sorrows and trials, including poverty and imprisonment, but frames them as temporary and purposeful.
Hope of Heaven and Eternal Life
The promise of a crown of endless life and escape from the second death offers hope beyond present suffering.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
The speaker of the message, described as the First and Last who lives though he died, encouraging the church to hold fast.
- Satan
Mentioned as the one who rages for a season and whose synagogue blasphemes against the church.
- The Holy Spirit
The Spirit speaks to the churches, promising escape from the second death for those who overcome.
- The Saints
The faithful believers in Smyrna, addressed as the Saviour's flock and chosen bride, who endure sorrow and poverty for Christ.
Key passages
“The message first to Smyrna sent, A message full of grace, To all the Saviour’s flock is meant In every age and place.”
The message given to the church in Smyrna is not just for them but for all believers in every time and location.
The hymn universalizes the specific biblical letter to apply to all Christians.
“Poor though thou art, despised and low, Yet who is rich like thee?”
Although you are poor and looked down upon, no one is as rich as you are.
This highlights the paradox of spiritual wealth in the midst of material poverty.
“Be faithful unto death, nor fear A few short days of strife; Behold! the prize you soon shall wear, A crown of endless life!”
Remain faithful even if it costs you your life, and do not be afraid of the brief time of trouble, because you will soon receive the eternal reward.
The hymn encourages perseverance with the promise of heavenly reward.