February 20th

Some are known for beauty. Others for power. Some for influence or wealth. In Revelation 2, Jesus describes Pergamum in a way no city would ever choose for itself. He calls it the place “where Satan dwells” (Rev. 2:13).

Pergamum was impressive. It was the capital of the Roman province of Asia and housed a massive altar to Zeus that towered over the city skyline. It was a leading center of emperor worship. From almost anywhere in the city, you could see visible reminders of who supposedly held power. Yet Jesus does not rebuke this church for fear or compromise at first. He begins with a commendation: “You hold fast my name.” They had remained loyal to Christ in a city saturated with spiritual opposition. Even when Antipas was martyred, they did not deny the faith. But Pergamum’s danger was not only external pressure. It was also internal compromise.

This Sunday, we will consider what it means to remain faithful in a culture that pressures us from the outside while subtly tempting us from within. We will see that the greatest threat to the church is not always persecution—but accommodation. We will also be reminded that the One who speaks to Pergamum is the One with the sharp, two-edged sword.

Jesus does not call His church to retreat. He calls us to repent where necessary, to overcome, and promises hidden manna and a new name to those who do.

Read Revelation 2:12–17 before Sunday and come ready to listen carefully to what the Spirit says to the churches.

I look forward to worshiping with you this Sunday in our 9 and 11AM worship services.

Grace,

Pastor Keith