Jesus’ Letter to Seven Churches #6

Pergamum: The Compromising Church

Rev 2:12-17

Main Point: Christians must never flirt with evil.

Revelation 2:12 (NIV84) 12 “To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword.

I. Christ’s Commendation

Revelation 2:13 (NIV84) 13 I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.

II. Christ’s Complaint

Revelation 2:14-15 (NIV84) 14 Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. 15 Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans.

III. Christ’s Counsel

Revelation 2:16a (NIV84) 16 Repent therefore!

IV. Christ’s Warning

Revelation 2:16b (NIV84) 16 …Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

V. Christ’s Promise to Overcomers

Revelation 2:17 (NIV84) 17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.

Conclusion: