The second church is in the city of Smyrna. The salutation is a reminder that the eternal God, entered into the world, and was persecuted. That persecution resulted in his death. But death could not hold him. He returned to victorious life.
He is reminding the church that persecution is not the end.
Jesus tells them, he is very aware of their tribulation, and poverty. He is aware of the slander of people, who say they follow the God of Israel, but, in reality, they follow Satan.
Then, he encourages them not to be afraid. There will be tribulation and imprisonment for some. But, they have way more than they realize. The world may think they are poor, but God thinks they are rich.
Those who overcome, who remain faithful in light of all issues, and problems, will not experience God's judgment. They will experience God's life. The grace God gives to live life, to demonstrate who he is, is extraordinary, when living in extra negative, extra difficult, circumstances. We demonstrate God's love, and grace, in the way we live, and the way we interact with people. It is more powerful when life is difficult, and toward those behind our problems.
