“Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10 ESV).
Much like the ancient church at Smyrna, God may sometimes schedule periods of testing in the lives of those who follow Him. During those periods, it is often helpful to view them as opportunities to demonstrate the kind of faith that is pleasing to God. For instance, God may permit such things to enter our lives to strengthen us, increase our faith, develop good character, or serve as an example to others. This shift in perspective from “a trial” to “an opportunity” can help us view such things in a positive manner.
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death” ‘ (Revelation 2:11).
Before we define this reference to “the second death” from Revelation 2:11, we should first consider the nature of death in a larger sense. The fundamental meaning of “death” relates to the idea of “separation” from a physical or spiritual perspective. Physical death occurs when a person’s spirit separates from his or her body, for “…the body without the spirit is dead…” according to James 2:26. In Biblical terms, this is called the “first death.”
The book of Revelation defines spiritual death as the “second death” that denotes a state of perpetual separation from God. Revelation 21:7-8 explains this concept in greater detail…
“All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children. But cowards who turn away from me, and unbelievers, and the corrupt, and murderers, and the immoral, and those who practice witchcraft, and idol worshipers, and all liars – their doom is in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death” (NLT).
One commentator offers a further explanation…
“The Bible teaches that there are two deaths: The first is physical, the second is spiritual… The second death is basically God granting people their earthly wish: to be apart from God. People who live their lives wanting nothing to do with God will spend eternity that way.” (1)
This second death stands opposed to the eternal life that Jesus promises to those who believe in Him (see John 3:16-18). Those who believe in Christ and accept His sacrificial death on their behalf have no need to fear this second death.
(1) Daniel, R. (n.d.). Revelation 19:1-20:15: Ron Daniel’s Bible Studies. Revelation 19:1-20:15 https://rondaniel.com/library/66-Revelation/Revelation1901.php