What is a "synagogue of Satan"? Historically, it was likely a reference to the Jewish synagogues of Smyrna and Philadelphia that strongly opposed the Christian churches in their cities. Why did the Lord specifically mention them? (Rev 2 and 3) It appears that they were a great source of pain to these Christian congregations. What problem were theses synagogues of Satan causing? What they were doing was referred to as "blasphemy". Theses synagogues were injuring the local believers by the things being spoken. This is likely why they were called the "synagogue of Satan". Satan is called the "accuser" of the brethren, so these two synagogues must have practiced a continual barage of "accusations" against the local churches of Smyrna and Philadelphia. To blaspheme means to "injure with speech".
Are there still "synagogues of Satan" in our day? Are there still groups who find their common ground in "accusations" against other local assemblies in their area?
Unfortunately, I believe remnants of the synagogue of Satan still exists in groups of individuals who find greater common ground in "accusing " other saints rather than they do in "appreciating" them. These "accusatory" groups may no longer meet in a particular building, but thanks to the Internet, these people are still able to find and communicate with each another. These individuals share a common characteristic that draws them to each other- a disdain of local Christian assemblies and local believers who live near them. They display a propensity towards regularly speaking against other believers; compliments are far more rare than criticisms. These people are more known for what they stand against, than what they stand for. They are usually people of faith, and claim a devout love of God, but they are usually very hesitant to grant legitimacy to other believers or assemblies near them. The decision not to become a part of any local assembly is most often expressed as there simply not being any qualified churches in the vicinity.
It is interesting that the Lord comforts the church of Philadelphia by promising them that He will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan "know that I have loved you." I am certain that this is very much against the mindset of people constantly given to accusations; that is why the Lord stated "I will make them do this."
What a comfort to know that our Lord cares about the suffering caused by those who continually accuse His children. It is also interesting to see just exactly what the Lord promises to make these accusers do - "I will make them to know that I have loved you." Is this not the only vindication worth having? There is no need to be proven correct on many things, or to have defamations cleared up, or rumors exposed as false. It is enough to know that even when men may reject us as false, the Father confirms the only truth that really matters - He loves us - even if with our multiple shortcomings.
Are you a part of a church that is continually criticized by a modern day remnant of the synagogue of Satan? Take heart in the midst of the pain of hearing the stream of accusations about those you are with or the way you assemble. The Father may never defend our methods , and He may not defend our message, but one answer to the multiple types of accusations others may bring against us is all that matters - "I have loved them."
If God loves us - He is for us - If He is for us - Who can be against us?