The Church in Pergamos - Dwelling in the Midst of Worldliness

PERGAMOS

Revelation 2

12 And to the Angel (Pastor) of the Church in Pergamos write (referred to as the State Church, which laid the groundwork for the Catholic system; its timespan was approximately A.D. 300 to A.D. 500); These things said He which has the sharp sword with two edges (a symbol for the Word of God);

13 I know your works, and where you dwell (dwell spiritually), even where Satan’s seat is (Satan had become part of this Church): and you hold fast My Name, and have not denied My Faith (despite the terrible condition of this Church, some were holding fast to Christ and were continuing to look to the Cross), even in those days wherein Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwells. (This persecution came from within the Church.)

14 But I have a few things against you, because you have there them who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the Children of Israel, to eat things Sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. (This Church was committing spiritual adultery, meaning they had shifted their Faith from the Cross to other things, with money being the underlying cause, which refers to the State Church.)

15 So have you also them who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. (At Ephesus, it was the “deeds of the Nicolaitanes,” and now it’s the “doctrine.” This refers to unscriptural Church Government, which grossly exploited the people.)

16 Repent (come back to the Cross); or else I will come unto you quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth. (This will bring to bear the Word of God, the part that speaks of Judgment.)

17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says unto the Churches (the Spirit is saying that all Church Government must, without fail, be Scriptural); To him who overcomes will I give to eat of the hidden Manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knows saving he who receives it. (This refers to the fact that Believers shall receive a new name, in harmony with the perfect renewal of our being.)