The church at Pergamum

Introduction

Pergamum was very wealthy and powerful city, located about 65 miles NW of Smyrna. It was a center of art, culture, and learning. Pergamum still exists today.  Approx., 14,000 live there with 3,000 professing some form of Christianity. No account given to us as to the establishment of the church in Pergamum. Like Smyrna, this is the only mention of the congregation in the NT.

I.  The authority of Jesus.

A.     2:12: Jesus again speaks symbolizing His authority:

1.        Sword a symbol of discerning, convicting, converting, and the punishing power of the word of God.

a.     Eph. 6:17 says the sword of the Spirit is the word of God.

2.       God’s word has the power to convict and convert people.

B.    The divine word has power to condemn to punishment those who do not obey/follow God. 

II.  The Commendation  (v. 13)

A.     2:13 - dwelled where Satan's seat is but did not compromise their influence!

1.     Pergamum exceeded all other cities at that time in wickedness.

2.     Probably had more idols in its gates than any other place in Asia.

B.     2:13 – Despite all this – they held up His name!

1.       Do you think morals have been “thrown out of the window” today?

2.       1 Pet. 4:16 -let us not be ashamed!

C.     2:13 - Did Not Deny Christ’s Faith

D. 2:13 – Stood tall despite personal persecution & execution of brethren.

1.  2:13 – Antipas held his faith when persecution came.

III.  2:14-15 - The Exhortation and Promise of the Lord.

A.  2:14 – Some were holding to the doctrines of Balaam

1. Jesus directly rebukes the church for those who were compromising with error.

2.  Balaam: an OT prophet who attempted to curse Israel.

B.  Had some who held to doctrine of the Nicolatians.

1. Taught that Christians are not under obligations of morality.

2. This teaching threatened to wreck moral havoc in the church.

3.  1 Thess. 5:21-22 - prove all things, hold fast to what is good.

C.  2:16 - Repent or else!

D.  2:17 - told to hear (take heed)

1.  Matthew 7:24 - hear & do - wise man

2.  Matthew 7:26 - head & do not - foolish man

E. 2:17 - Promised eternal life to those who overcome.

Conclusion

A.  Here a congregation standing for Christ in the face of being put to death.

B.     We see that we must hold fast the name of Christ.  Are you?