End of Times: Revelation 2.12-17 - Pergamum

Today we will be looking at Revelation 2.12-17 and the message to the church in Pergamum. And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: ‘The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. “ ‘I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. So also you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.’”

Pergamum was a major city in Western Asia, especially during the 3rd and 4th Centuries. It was known for its high use of worship to false gods.

In this message the aspect of Christ that is noted is in verse 12 where the Spirit says, “The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword.” Each message to the churches refers back to the vision of Christ John witnessed. This supports how the seven churches are the complete church and how Christ is over His whole Church. Additionally, at the end of each message the Spirit says, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

The sharp two-edged sword is the Word of God. Hebrews 4.12 says, “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” I find it fascinating that none of God’s Words are empty. All He says is perfect and pierce to the depths of our hearts. Everything He says and does is true, without error. He speaks and it is so, no one can withstand His truth.

The third church is Pergamum.