Like the other messages, the church in Pergamum is addressed according to its “angel.” And Christ identifies himself in terms of the vision recorded in chapter one as “Him who has the sharp two-edged sword.” This refers to the vision of the sword (the powerful word) which comes from the mouth of the Lord.

Well into the 2^nd century, Pergamum was the capital city of the Roman province of Asia. But Pergamum was also the center of worship for at least four of the most important pagan cults of the day. In 29 B.C. Pergamum received permission from Augustus to build a temple to the cult of Caesar. The city was home to a temple to Dionysus and was a center for the worship of Asclepios, the god of healing symbolized by a serpent. In Greek mythology, Asclepios was referred to as “Savior.” Pergamum was also known for its stunning altar to Zeus which stood upon an enormous platform about 100 feet above the city.

The Christians in Pergamum lived in a city which projected a pagan view of life politically and religiously in their highest, most enculturated expressions. The situation was so spiritually dire that Jesus calls Pergamum the place “where Satan’s throne is” and “where Satan dwells” (vs. 13). Already, one of their own has lost his life for his faithful witness to Christ. But now, there is compromise growing in their ranks. The references to Balaam and the Nicolaitans tell us that they were being led to conform to the culture, to cut corners morally in order to fit in and avoid persecution. And so the Lord calls them to repent, and no longer tolerate those who encouraged their compromise, warning of the powerful word of his judgment which will come upon those who have led them into sin (vs. 16).

But the promise remains. The Lord has promised the “hidden manna,” and a white stone with a name engraved upon it to those who “overcome” or remain faithful to the end. The manna represents the supernatural provision of God to give life to his people. The white stone may represent a means of identification. Or, it may harken back to the stones on the High Priest’s breastplate and thus, points to Jesus Christ and our entry into the most holy place by his merits. Whatever the case, the promise is clear. Those who overcome, that is, those who believe and endure to the end, will be granted entry into the everlasting life of God’s blessed new creation.