Thinking Thursday

[Rev 2:12-17 ESV] 12 "And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: 'The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. 

Who is this angel?  Church tradition says it is Hieromartyr Antipas and you may read about him and his efforts promoting the truth of God here!

13 "'I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. 

This region was ripe with idol worship and sacrifice.  But even the faithful can remain loyal to God in such an environment.

14 But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. 

Guard against those who would mislead you.  Follow God and Him alone.

15 So also you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 

This was discussed in the Church 1 of 7 article here!

16 Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth. 

If you are at odds with God and His Word, you are on the wrong side and you will lose.

17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.'

So resolve to conquer and Christ will give you hidden manna, a white stone and a new name... rewards to strive for!