What does the Bible say about the persecuted church?

The Bible addresses the condition of the church, especially the persecuted church, in passages like Revelation 2:8-11. The church at Smyrna, for example, represents the true gospel church that faces persecution for its adherence to the teachings of Christ. During the last days and throughout the new covenant period, the true church of the Lord Jesus Christ will be met with various forms of persecution, often for the sake of the gospel. Emphasizing this theme, Jesus reminds believers that their suffering may reflect their faithfulness to the truth of the gospel and that they can find comfort in His promises, even in the face of adversity.