September 27, 2026 - Death Does Not Win - Ryan Brown

<p>In his sermon on Revelation 2:8–11, Pastor Ryan presents the core message that <strong>death does not win</strong>. Examining the persecuted church of Smyrna, he contrasts two fundamental realities: while <strong>the cost of following Jesus is your life</strong>—involving real hardships such as tribulation, poverty, slander, imprisonment, and death—<strong>the prize of following Jesus is life eternal</strong>. He challenges believers not to evaluate God&#39;s character or goodness based on temporary comfort, reminding them that Christ sees their suffering, makes them spiritually rich, holds final authority over slander, and uses trials to strengthen faith. Highlighting that <em>Smyrna</em> translates to <strong>myrrh</strong>—a fragrant resin that must be crushed to release its sweetness—he encourages believers to remain faithful through crushing trials, trusting that Jesus has defeated death and will award the crown of life to those who conquer.</p>