Revelation churches - part 3

The church at Pergamum (or Pergamus or Pergamos, depending on your bible version) is going to remind you quite a bit of society today. Lets take a look...

"And to the angel of the church of Pergamus write: These things, saith he, that hath the sharp two edged sword: I know where thou dwellest, where the seat of Satan is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith. Even in those days when Antipas was my faithful witness, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have against thee a few things: because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat, and to commit fornication: So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaites. In like manner do penance: if not, I will come to thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He, that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches: To him that overcometh, I will give the hidden manna, and will give him a white counter, and in the counter, a new name written, which no man knoweth, but he that receiveth it." (Rev 2:12-17)drv

Pergamum was an impressive city, built on top of a hill, so that the citizens were able to look down upon the surrounding countryside. As you'd expect, this led to the locals to become VERY full of themselves. It also seems they'd invented parchment (an early form of paper) and as a result, they had a very extensive library. Not a bad thing, in and of itself, but anything that takes away from God's glory is not beneficial, as we shall see...

The citizens quickly jumped onto the Roman bandwagon when they invaded. Temples to the Roman gods and goddesses were erected soon after.

Note, please the reference to "Balaam" above. He was sent by a local king of an area through which the Israelites were traveling after leaving Egypt. He was supposed to cast curses upon the Israelites, but he got into an argument with his donkey(!). Instead of cursing them, he blessed them several times. Years later, however, he conspired to corrupt the morals of God's people, using Moabite prostitutes. He also led them to worship idols. This was the "stumblingblock" that is mentioned above.

Today, many churches are being led away from God's guidance by those who insist on "acceptance" and "political correctness." Sexual deviations are also becoming common. We are warned that this will never be tolerated by God, but it is seeping into many churches despite His warnings.

Those who resist are promised the blessings that are to come.

Those who accept compromise are promised the sword of His mouth.

Which position will you take?