Topic(s): Bible Study, Eternity, Faith

Todd Clippard

The days of Revelation 2:10 are not literal days. In apocalyptic literature such as the book of Revelation, the number 10 is symbolic of completion. Therefore, the text is teaching that a complete persecution would come upon the church at Smyrna. This persecution would reveal the true disciple of Jesus Christ.

This is the why the the word "tried" is used in connection with the persecution in the King James Version. (The NKJV and NASB use the word "tested.") Literally, it means to be examined (cf Rev 2:2). Those willing to die for their faith, (and many did – Rev 6:9), were promised a crown of life in heaven.