How can believers be poor and rich at the same time? Revelation 2:9
9 'I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
Revelation 2:8 - 11
ESV - 8 And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: 'The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. 9 'I know your tribulation and your poverty ( but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
For follow-up discussion and general commentary on the topic. Comments are sorted chronologically.
Tim Maas
From https://biblehub.com/revelation/2-9.htm
"This phrase acknowledges the suffering and material deprivation faced by the church in Smyrna. Historically, Smyrna was a wealthy city, yet the Christians there were often marginalized and economically disadvantaged due to their faith. The "affliction" refers to the persecution and trials they endured. Despite their material poverty, they are described as "rich" in spiritual terms, echoing Jesus' teachings in Matthew 6:20 about storing treasures in heaven. This richness is in their faith, perseverance, and spiritual blessings, aligning with James 2:5, which speaks of the poor being rich in faith."