Scripture: Revelation 2:12-17

Synopsis: Pergamum is commended for holding on to their faith in spite of the constant threat of persecution.  Yet Christ has some very sharp words for those who are holding to the teachings of Balaam and the Nicolaitans.  The issue in both cases is one of compromise with the cultural norms of the day–specifically in the areas of idolatry and sexual immorality.  These things permeated day-to-day life in Pergamum, and some Christians were teaching it was fine to go along with it.  Christ has a very stern word of rebuke for such worldliness infiltrating the church.  This is a constant problem throughout the ages as the church tries to navigate the cultural realities of the day; namely, seeing as normal that which Christ has forbidden.  We’ll think together about some areas where worldliness threatens us today.  To those who remain faithful, however, Christ promises hidden manna and a white stone.  Likely these are images that point to the heavenly banquet Christ has prepared for all eternity.  No matter how many idolatrous feasts and celebrations the Pergamum Christians had to forgo, they were nothing compared to the feast that awaits those who overcome.