4. Pergamum: Compromise with the World

Introduction: The Slow Drift of Compromise

Persecution often strengthens the church, but compromise destroys it from within. The believers in Pergamum lived in a city known as the “throne of Satan” because of its imperial cult and pagan temples. Surrounded by idolatry, they held fast to Christ’s name but tolerated false teaching that led to sin.

This letter is sobering because it reminds us that compromise does not always come with open denial of Christ. Sometimes it creeps in subtly; through toleration of false ideas, a softening toward sin, or an eagerness to fit in with the world. Pergamum teaches us that Christ demands uncompromising loyalty.

Exposition

Christ the Sword-Bearer

Christ introduces Himself as “the One who has the sharp two-edged sword” (Rev. 2:12 LSB). This recalls the vision of Revelation 1:16, where the sword from His mouth symbolizes His Word—living, powerful, and penetrating (Heb. 4:12). In a city proud of Roman authority, Christ reminds them that His Word, not Caesar’s decree, is the true standard of judgment. Beale comments, “The church must fear the sword of Christ’s mouth more than the sword of Rome.”¹

Commendation for Holding Fast

Despite immense pressure, the church had not denied the faith: “You hold fast My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My faithful witness, who was killed among you” (Rev. 2:13 LSB). They stood firm even as one of their own was martyred. Their loyalty under fire was commendable.

Condemnation for Tolerating Error

Yet Christ rebukes them: “But I have a few things against you, that you have there some who hold the teaching of Balaam, who kept teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality” (Rev. 2:14 LSB). Just as Balaam lured Israel into sin (Num. 25:1-3; 31:16), Pergamum tolerated teachers who encouraged compromise with pagan practices.

Hendriksen observes, “Satan could not destroy the church by persecution, so he tried corruption—and alas, the church yielded.”²

The Call to Repentance

Christ warns: “Therefore repent; but if not, I am coming to you quickly, and I will make war against them with the sword of My mouth” (Rev. 2:16 LSB). The church’s failure to discipline sin would result in Christ Himself warring against the guilty. His judgment is swift and unavoidable.

The Promise to the Overcomer

“To the one who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it” (Rev. 2:17 LSB). The hidden manna symbolizes Christ, the Bread of Life (John 6:35). The white stone may reflect an ancient token of acquittal, symbolizing acceptance and eternal fellowship. The new name points to a new identity in Christ, secure and known to God.

Application

1. Compromise Is More Subtle Than Persecution

Most expect opposition from the world, but few guard against the slow creep of compromise. Churches may tolerate sin under the banner of love, or soften doctrine to remain culturally relevant. But Christ sees through it all.

2. The Church Must Guard Against False Teaching

Pergamum tolerated the teaching of Balaam. Today, churches often allow destructive teachings on sexuality, materialism, or the nature of truth. Calvin warns, “Where error is tolerated, Christ declares war, for His truth is inseparable from His honor.”³

3. Repentance Is Urgent

Christ does not negotiate with sin. He calls His church to repent quickly. Delay only invites judgment.

4. Christ Alone Satisfies and Vindicates

The promises of manna, the white stone, and the new name remind us that Christ alone provides eternal nourishment, acceptance, and identity. Compromise offers fleeting approval; Christ offers everlasting life.

Call to Persevere

Pergamum warns us that compromise is the slow poison of the church. Persecution may test us from without, but compromise rots us from within. Christ calls us to repent, to cling to His Word, and to resist the world’s lure. To those who overcome, He promises the hidden manna, the white stone, and a new name in glory.

Footnotes

1. G. K. Beale, The Book of Revelation: A Commentary on the Greek Text, NIGTC (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1999), 249.

2. William Hendriksen, More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1967), 80.

3. John Calvin, Commentaries on the Catholic Epistles, trans. John Owen (Edinburgh: Calvin Translation Society, 1855), 329.