The Seven Churches of Asia: Pergamos

Last week we looked at the church at Smyrna in the eighth to eleventh verses of the second chapter of Revelation. The next church written to is the church in Pergamos.
Revelation 2:12-17
And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

The Positive:
The church in Pergamos held firmly to the name of Christ. Even though they had been persecuted, they refused to deny Christ. Even to the point of martyrdom, they would not give up Christ. Truly, this is something we should emulate! Here in this country, we do not know life-threatening persecution for our faith. Would we remain firm in the same circumstances? It would be hopeful that we would remain true to Christ, regardless of our circumstances!

The Negative:
The church in Pergamos had one particular difficulty though: they tolerated false doctrine. The scriptures state that they tolerated those who held the to the teaching of Balaam and the Nicolaitans. And for this acceptance, they are condemned.

In this time and society, acceptance of any teaching is encouraged by many. Yet we see in scripture that we must be careful to not accept false teaching, false doctrine, or wrong actions. We must remain faithful to the word of God.

Let us always strive to emulate the church in Pergamos in that we always confess Christ! Let us always stand firm regardless of what we encounter in this life! And let us always strive to avoid accepting error, and not fall into the same error that they did.

Next week, Lord willing, we will briefly look at the church in Thyatira.