The Church in Pergamos, also known as Pergamum, is one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation. Located in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey, Pergamos was a significant cultural and religious center during the first century. The city's prominence is reflected in its mention in Revelation 2:12-17, where the risen Christ addresses the church through the Apostle John.

Historical and Cultural Context

Pergamos was renowned for its wealth, intellectual pursuits, and religious pluralism. It housed a famous library, second only to Alexandria, and was a center for the worship of various deities, including Zeus, Athena, and Asclepius. The city was also a stronghold of emperor worship, which posed a significant challenge for early Christians who confessed Christ as Lord.

Biblical Account

In Revelation 2:12-17, the message to the church in Pergamos begins with a description of Christ as "the One who has the sharp, double-edged sword" (Revelation 2:12). This imagery underscores the authority and judgment of Christ, emphasizing His power to discern truth and error.

The commendation given to the church acknowledges their steadfastness in faith despite residing "where Satan's throne is" (Revelation 2:13). This phrase likely refers to the pervasive pagan worship and the imperial cult that dominated the city. The believers in Pergamos are praised for holding fast to Christ's name and not denying their faith, even in the face of persecution, as exemplified by the martyrdom of Antipas, described as "My faithful witness" (Revelation 2:13).

Rebuke and Exhortation

Despite their commendable faithfulness, the church in Pergamos is rebuked for tolerating certain false teachings. Specifically, they are criticized for allowing the teachings of Balaam and the Nicolaitans to infiltrate the congregation (Revelation 2:14-15). The reference to Balaam recalls the Old Testament prophet who led Israel into idolatry and immorality (Numbers 22-25). Similarly, the Nicolaitans are believed to have promoted a form of antinomianism, encouraging believers to compromise with pagan practices.

The exhortation to the church is clear: "Therefore repent! Otherwise, I will come to you shortly and wage war against them with the sword of My mouth" (Revelation 2:16). This call to repentance highlights the necessity of doctrinal purity and moral integrity within the church.

Promise to the Overcomers

The message concludes with a promise to those who overcome: "To the one who is victorious, I will give the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone inscribed with a new name, known only to the one who receives it" (Revelation 2:17). The hidden manna symbolizes spiritual sustenance and the provision of Christ, contrasting with the idolatrous feasts of the surrounding culture. The white stone, possibly a symbol of acquittal or acceptance, signifies a personal and intimate relationship with Christ, marked by a new identity in Him.

Theological Implications

The message to the church in Pergamos serves as a timeless reminder of the challenges faced by Christians living in a pluralistic and often hostile environment. It underscores the importance of confessing Christ boldly, maintaining doctrinal purity, and resisting the pressures to conform to worldly standards. The call to repentance and the promise of eternal reward encourage believers to remain faithful, trusting in the ultimate authority and provision of Christ.Revelation 2:13
I know your works, and where you dwell, even where Satan's seat is: and you hold fast my name, and have not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwells.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Concerted Prayer
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present-day Church those who ... at the same time using the Christ-given course ...
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The Number of those who Fought for Religion in Gaul under Verus ...
... "And Christ was glorified ... For they were examined by themselves, as about to be set
free; but confessing, they were ... But all the others were added to the Church. ...
/.../pamphilius/church history/chapter i the number of those.htm

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