Topical Bible: Church: List of Congregations of Christians: Pergamos

◄ Church: List of Congregations of Christians: Pergamos ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Pergamos (Pergamum): Pergamos, also known as Pergamum, was an ancient city located in the region of Mysia in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey. It is one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation. Pergamos was a significant cultural and religious center, known for its grand temples and as a seat of Roman authority. The city's prominence in the ancient world is reflected in its mention in the biblical text, where it is recognized as a congregation of early Christians.

Biblical Reference:
The church in Pergamos is specifically addressed in Revelation 2:12-17. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following passage:

"To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of the One who holds the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live, where the throne of Satan sits. Yet you have held fast to My name and have not denied your faith in Me, even in the days when My faithful witness Antipas was killed among you, where Satan dwells. But I have a few things against you: You have some there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to place a stumbling block before the Israelites, so they would eat food sacrificed to idols and commit sexual immorality. In the same way, some of you also hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Therefore repent! Otherwise I will come to you shortly and wage 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 is victorious, I will give the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone inscribed with a new name, known only to the one who receives it." (Revelation 2:12-17)

Historical and Cultural Context:
Pergamos was renowned for its library, second only to the Library of Alexandria, and its medical center, the Asclepion, dedicated to the god of healing, Asclepius. The city was a hub of pagan worship, with temples dedicated to Zeus, Athena, and other deities. The reference to "where the throne of Satan sits" is often interpreted as an allusion to the city's strong pagan influences and possibly the grand altar of Zeus.

Challenges and Commendations:
The Christians in Pergamos faced significant challenges due to the pervasive pagan culture and the pressure to conform to Roman religious practices. Despite these challenges, the church is commended for holding fast to the name of Christ and not denying their faith, even in the face of persecution, as exemplified by the martyrdom of Antipas.

However, the church is also admonished for tolerating certain false teachings, specifically those associated with Balaam and the Nicolaitans. These teachings led some members to engage in idolatry and immorality, practices that were contrary to Christian doctrine.

Call to Repentance and Promise:
The message to the church in Pergamos includes a call to repentance, urging the congregation to turn away from false teachings and practices. The promise to those who overcome includes receiving "hidden manna" and a "white stone" with a new name, symbolizing spiritual sustenance and a unique, personal relationship with Christ.

The church in Pergamos serves as a historical example of the early Christian struggle to maintain faithfulness amidst external pressures and internal challenges. The message to this church continues to resonate as a call to discernment, purity, and perseverance in the faith.