Revelation 2:8-9

“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, ‘These things says the First and the last, who was dead, and came to life:  “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of satan.

·        He is the “First” source of all blessing and is the “Last” to stand. This assures us that all His promises will come to pass.  The beginning and end of the His plan for our life are in His loving powerful hands.

·        Jesus saw their labors in ministry in the midst of on-going tribulation or persecution especially by the Jews.

 Isaiah 41:4  Who has performed and done it, calling the generations from the beginning?  ‘I, the LORD, am the first; and with the last I am He.’

 Isaiah 48:12  “Listen to Me, O Jacob, and Israel, My called:  I am He, I am the First, I am also the Last.