1. The faithful witness (12-13)

Pergamum was the official center of emperor worship in Asia Minor--Satan's throne was indeed there! Antipas was the first Christian martyr of Asia. To be a Christian in Pergamum was to invite persecution. But there were faithful men and women who did not renounce their faith in Jesus.

2. Repent! (14-17)

Within the church there were followers of Nicolas, who taught that it was all right for a Christian to indulge in free sex. He was like Baalam, a prophet employed by the Moabites to lead the Israelites into idolatry and sexual immorality. (Nu 22:1-7;25:1-2) Baalam was slain and many Israelites who compromised their faith died. The Christians of Pergamum must repent. God's word is a two-edged sword that cuts out idolatry, immorality and compromise and demands repentance. God gives a new name and an admission ticket (the white stone) to the heavenly banquet to the one who overcomes temptation.

Application: Lord, help me not to be fooled or compromised by prophets like Balaam.
One Word: God's word is a sharp sword