Introduction
• Fallen Condition Focus: As fallen human beings, we are susceptible to be faithless in times of tribulation when we ought to be faithful
• Sermon Proposition: Since Jesus, the first and the last, promises us the crown of life, let us be faithful to the Lord, persevering in our faith unto the end
• Key verse: Rev. 2:10 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.

1. A word of comfort (cf. Rev. 1:17, 18; Is. 41:4; 44:6; 48:12)

2. A warning (cf. Matt. 24:9)

3. An exhortation (cf. Matt. 24:13; Rev. 12:11; Matt. 16:24-25)

4. A promise (James 1:12; Rev. 3:11)

So What? How do we find grace to remain faithful to Jesus in times of persecution?
a. We trust in God's sovereign control over all things (Rev. 2:8-11)
b. We trust in God's grace to preserve us in our faith (Jn. 10:27-30; Heb. 12:2)
c. We trust in God's abiding presence with us in times of tribulation (Dan. 3:24-25)