John Newton 8,6,8,6 Smyrna. The message first to Smyrna sent, A message full of grace; To all the Savior's flock is meant, In every age and place. Thus to his church, his chosen bride, Saith the great First and Last; "Who ever lives, though once he died, Hold thy profession fast. Thy works and sorrows well I know,. Performed and borne for me; Poor though thou art, despised and low, Yet who is rich like thee? I know thy foes, and what they say, How long they have blasphemed; The synagogue of Satan, they, Though they would Jews be deemed. Though Satan for a season rage, And prisons be your lot; l am your friend, and I engage You shall not be forgot. Be faithful unto death, nor fear A few short days of strife; Behold! the prize you soon shall wear, A crown of endless life!" Hear what the holy Spirit saith Of all who overcome; "They shall escape the second death, The sinner's aweful doom!" |