As a group, the seven churches of Revelation 2 and 3 experienced many difficulties of faith. In addition to severe persecutions, they had to address doctrinal errors, misplaced affections, and the wretchedness of self-satisfaction. However, each message to those Christian assemblies included the call to be an overcomer. This is the same call we must heed in our days.

It is beautiful to consider the messages of life for overcomers. First, they are granted the fruit of the tree of life. Apart from some references in Proverbs, this tree had disappeared from the Scriptures since the day Adam and Eve left the garden of Eden. Yet here we find that God has kept that tree in reserve, all this time, for the believer who overcomes. The crown of life, too, is a wonderful promise. In the days of the kings, David was offered a crown of death, as it might be called: the crown of unfaithful Saul, presented as proof that Saul had died in battle. Yet the Lord Jesus, our greater David, will Himself award the crown of life to those who faithfully endure tribulation because they love Him (cf. Jas. 1:12).

Then comes the reference to the Book of Life. Overcomers are promised not only that their names will be maintained there but also that their Lord will declare His approval of them. What dignity to be commended by such a glorious Master! Let us heed what the Spirit says to the churches; and may these promises ignite our desire to overcome all things for His sake.