The Compromising Church of Pergamum
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Introduction
In the book of Revelation, Jesus addresses seven churches, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. In this sermon, we focus on the Church of Pergamum, which was known for its compromising nature. The church had allowed external pressures to weaken its defenses and open the doors to worldly influences. We examine the actions of the church in Thyatira as an example and learn from both their good aspects and their sinful compromises.
Satan’s Tactics: Persecution and Seduction
Satan employs two primary tactics to render the church powerless. The first is persecution, which often backfires, making the church stronger and purer. However, the second tactic is more subtle and often more effective. Satan seduces the church, lulling it to sleep from within. He deceives believers into thinking that there are other things as important as serving Christ and loving the lost. He tempts them to compromise their commitment to Christ, suggesting they can have the best of both worlds.
Christ’s Commission and Commendation
In Revelation 2:12, Jesus introduces Himself as the one who wields a sharp two-edged sword. This signifies the power of His Word, which is the church’s weapon against the enemy. The Church of Pergamum had become powerless against the devil’s seduction because they had lost sight of the power of Christ’s Word. They needed to be reminded that the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.
Despite their compromising nature, the Church of Pergamum had commendable traits. They held fast to the name of Christ and did not deny their faith, even in the face of persecution. They remained faithful to Christ amidst a city characterized by satanic activity.
Christ’s Condemnation: Compromise and False Teachings
However, the church had allowed compromise and false teachings to infiltrate its midst. Some members held onto the teachings of Balaam, who led the Israelites to stumble by engaging in idolatry and sexual immorality. Similarly, there were those who followed the teachings of the Nicolaitans, who promoted a diluted form of Christianity that endorsed worldliness and compromised holiness.
These compromises weakened the church’s commitment to Christ. While they upheld His name and professed faith, their actions did not align with His teachings. Jesus reminds us in 1 John 2:4-6 that those who claim to know Him must also keep His commandments.
Christ’s Confrontation and Challenge
Jesus confronts the Church of Pergamum, calling them to repent. He warns them that if they do not turn away from their tolerance and compromise, He will come and war against them with the sword of His mouth. It is a call to realign their lives with the truth and to honor Christ above everything else.
In His challenge to the church, Jesus offers the rewards for those who conquer through faithfulness. He promises them hidden manna, symbolizing eternal provision in Christ, and a white stone with a new name written on it, symbolizing a new status and righteousness in Him.
Conclusion
The Church of Pergamum serves as a cautionary example for us today. We must be vigilant against compromising our faith and diluting the truth with worldly influences. Jesus calls us to repentance and steadfastness, armed with the power of His Word. We should strive for a church that upholds His name, remains faithful to His teachings, and resists the world’s seduction.
Let us learn from the mistakes of the compromising church in Pergamum, holding fast to the true manna from heaven, Jesus Christ, and embracing the new identity and righteousness He offers us. May we be a church that is unyielding in our commitment to Christ and unwavering in our pursuit of holiness.