Wednesday 3 September 2025
"And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword." (v. 12)
Background
The city of Pergamum (or Pergamon) was an impressive sight in the 1st century AD, with its large acropolis of black volcanic rock and impressive temples. One temple was dedicated to Ascelpius, the Greek god of healing, symbolised by a serpent. Another was the Great Altar, dedicated to Zeus, known as the king of the gods in Greek mythology. It is probably this altar that is ‘Satan’s throne’ in the letter (verse 13), as it resembled a giant throne. In the 1930s, Hitler modelled his Nuremberg grandstand on the altar – a hideous throne of Satan for the 20th century.
Antipas (mentioned in verse 13) is not the Antipas of the gospels and Acts (who was from the Herod family). According to Christian tradition, this Antipas was the bishop of Pergamum, appointed by John, and martyred during the reign of the Roman Emperor Nero.
In this letter, Jesus praises the steadfastness of the Christians in this pagan city, but there are some concerns. Some hold to the teaching of Balaam (verse 14). They may not have known the name Balaam, but it perhaps a case of history repeating itself. Balaam’s story is found in Numbers 22-24. He was a prophet from outside Israel, employed by the Moabite king Balak to curse the Israelites (in the time of Moses). However, obstructed by God (and a talking donkey), Balaam could not curse them and kept on blessing them, frustrating King Balak. In the end, some of the Israelites strayed into sexual immorality and idolatry with Moabites (in Numbers 25), and it is these two temptations which seem to be the problem here: Christians in Pergamum have been too readily embracing the local pagan culture.
As with the church in Smyrna, which we read about yesterday, there is also a problem with the Nicolaitans – a heretical group infiltrating the church, about whom we have no reliable historical information.
Whatever the error, the answer is repentance. Just because it is the culture of the time or place, doesn’t mean Christ-followers should engage in it. Those who are compromising themselves with adulterous or idolatrous practices need to stop, receive forgiveness, or there will be consequences. The ‘two-edged sword’, the word of Christ, will slice through any ambiguous Christianity, and such practices also bring their own dangers. But to those who ‘conquer’ – who persevere in their faith despite the temptations all around – Jesus offers a different, more fulfilling relationship. He will give ‘hidden manna’ (possibly referring to Holy Communion) and a white stone with ‘a new name’, indicating an intimate relationship with Christ. (verse 17)
To Ponder:
- What personal temptations do we face as we try to live as Christ’s disciples today?
- How much do we compromise our faith or water it down as we adapt to contemporary culture? Is there a case for moving with the times, when positive changes can be made which are inline with the love of God?
- The fourth letter, to the church in Thyatria (Revelation 2:18-29), is not included in our readings for this week. You might like to read this difficult passage at home and reflect on what the message might be.
Bible notes author: The Revd Andrew Murphy
Andrew is a Methodist presbyter in the East Mercia Circuit, and currently the minister of the churches of Market Harborough, Kibworth and Rothwell, and part of the ministry team at St Giles, Desborough. He is married to Emily, with two children, aged nine and eleven. He has been in the ministry for 17 years, previously serving in the Hinckley Circuit. He trained at the Wesley Study Centre in Durham, is a published hymn writer, supports Newcastle United FC, and is proud of his roots in Consett, County Durham.