In Jesus’ message to the church at Pergamum (Rev.2: 12-17) several things stand out:
First, is the description of Jesus: “The One who has the two-edged sword.” Several verses flashed through my mind as I read that. One is “the Word of God is a sharp, two-edged sword.” (Heb.4:12). I also flashed to the armor of God mentioned in Ephesians 6 which talked about the “sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” (v.17b). Jesus will yield His sword (pictured elsewhere in Revelation).
Second, we live in Satan’s realm. We are told that he is the prince of this world…for now. One day his rule will come to an end…as will he. But I like what it says about some of the saints in Pergamum: they held firmly to their faith. They refused to compromise the Name of Jesus!
Third, even though they had some who held to their faith, they also had some who embraced false teaching. And it was ugly. Compromise central. They allowed sexual immorality (teaching of Balaam) and the teaching of the Nicolaitans (similar to Balaam and also included sexual orgies).
Fourth, God did not then, nor will He now tolerate compromise. “Repent” were His words. False teaching is so insidious, so sneaky, so creeping, and so sinister. Look up and its there (and one often doesn’t even realize it).
That’s a warning…for me…for you…for the church. Be aware. Be on guard. Keep the sword handy. I/you may have to do some hacking away.
“Father, Your truth stands. It cannot be compromised. You won’t stand for it. Help me to be true to Your Word.”
Lord willing, I will be back Monday with the next installment/devotion based around the letters to the 7 churches.
I think you are right on the compromise… How many churches have compromised for the sake societal norms? How many have not just turned a blind eye, but actually endorse the corruption of the church. Here is the thing… The world will continue to be the world, the standards and norms of society will always be different from what the Bible teaches. Nothing in regards to God has changed here… God set apart Israel to demonstrate this. Jesus chose his disciples based not on cultural expectations or norms, He went against the culture. Why would the church think that locking arms with cultural values of today would ever be in God’s plan… Not that we should be antagonistic, hateful, or demeaning… but one doesn’t have to compromise God’s values to show respect and decency to those that don’t share the same values.
So right Ryan. Locking arms is not good but we also don’t need to be antagonistic, hateful or demeaning. Great thoughts.
Amen, Bill! May we all be discerning when it comes to the truth of the Gospel, knowing what is really from God and what is not.
Blessings!
After working on 2 John this morning for a sermon I cannot agree with you more Martha. Thanks.
Father help me to always see the truth, the truth as it stands through your word and your eyes. Help me not to let the world confuse or compromise my views. Father, help me keep my faith and heart aligned to only you.
It will be with His help and only His that we will be able to stand