What Was Pergamum in the Bible?
Pergamum in the Book of Revelation
Pergamum, also known as Pergamos, is a significant city mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the Book of Revelation. The name Pergamum is derived from the Greek word Πέργαμος (Pergamos), and it holds a crucial place in biblical history. In Revelation 1:11, the apostle John writes that he was instructed by Jesus to write to the seven churches, including the church in Pergamum.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Located in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey, Pergamum was renowned for its cultural, intellectual, and religious influence. It was home to a famous library, second only to the library in Alexandria, which housed over 200,000 volumes. Pergamum was also a major center of pagan worship, boasting temples dedicated to various gods such as Zeus, Athena, and Asclepius. The city’s devotion to emperor worship was particularly prominent, with a temple dedicated to the Roman Emperor Augustus.
The Church in Pergamum
In Revelation 2:12-17, Jesus addresses the church in Pergamum through the apostle John. Jesus commends the believers for their steadfast faith amid persecution, yet He also rebukes them for tolerating false teachings and immoral practices within their congregation:
“To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives. Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.”
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Standing Firm in the Faith
The church in Pergamum is commended for their unwavering faith despite living in a city Jesus refers to as “where Satan has his throne.” This imagery emphasizes the intense spiritual opposition and pervasive pagan influence the believers faced. Modern Christians can draw strength from the example of the Pergamum church, learning to stand firm in their faith even when surrounded by hostile or secular environments. Ephesians 6:13 encourages believers: “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
Guarding Against False Teachings
Jesus’ rebuke to the Pergamum church for tolerating false teachings underscores the importance of doctrinal purity. The references to the teachings of Balaam and the Nicolaitans highlight the dangers of compromising with idolatry and immorality. Modern Christians must be vigilant in guarding their faith against heresies and moral compromises. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 warns: “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Correction and Love
Jesus’ message to the church in Pergamum reflects His love and desire for their holiness. His rebuke is not merely a condemnation but a call to repentance and restoration. This demonstrates God’s loving nature, desiring His people to live in truth and purity. Hebrews 12:6 reminds us: “Because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
God’s Promise of Reward
Jesus concludes His message to Pergamum with a promise to those who overcome: “Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it” (Revelation 2:17). This promise signifies spiritual nourishment, purity, and a personal relationship with God. It reassures believers of the eternal rewards that await those who remain faithful.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Christ’s Authority and Judgment
Jesus identifies Himself to the Pergamum church as the one “who has the sharp, double-edged sword” (Revelation 2:12). This symbolizes His authority and power to judge rightly. Hebrews 4:12-13 explains the significance of the double-edged sword: “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Christ’s authority assures believers that He will justly judge both faithfulness and rebellion.
The Call to Repentance
Jesus’ call to repentance in His message to Pergamum is central to the Christian faith. Repentance is not merely an initial step but an ongoing process in the life of a believer. 1 John 1:9 promises: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Through repentance, Christians maintain a right relationship with God, continually aligning their lives with His will.
Conclusion
Pergamum, a city steeped in cultural and religious significance, serves as a powerful example for modern Christians. The church in Pergamum faced intense spiritual opposition, yet they were commended for their steadfast faith. However, their tolerance of false teachings and immoral practices serves as a stern warning about the dangers of compromise. Through the lessons from Pergamum, believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith, guard against false teachings, and remain committed to repentance and purity. This biblical narrative underscores the importance of upholding the truth of the Gospel in a world filled with opposition and deception, always trusting in the authority and love of Jesus Christ.
References:
– Revelation 1:11
– Revelation 2:12