Revelation 2:12-17
I. Introduction
A. Name of the Church
And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write;
B. The Presentation
These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and
thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days
wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan
dwelleth.
II. Body of the Letter
A. Diagnosis
I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.
B. Praises/Rebukes
But I have a few things against thee, 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 things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with
the sword of my mouth.
III. Conclusion
A. Words of Christ Attributed to the Spirit
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches;
B. Promises
To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give
him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth
saving he that receiveth it.
NOTES
The Church starts down that slippery slope of COMPROMISE (Balaam SOLD OUT his people) (323AD- 538AD) / Pergamos means "exalted" -- Many new converts were entering the Church via the Constantine "conversion" / ANTIPAS means "anti"-"father" or pope, the men opposing the rise of Papal power which was ushering in paganism (sunday sacredness in place of Sabbath, Immortality of the soul, Image worship, etc.) /Sharp Sword is God's Word / Nicolaitans are thought by some to be a group that advocated a strong polity of leadership and others believe they were a group of gnostics (new age type "Christians") / During judgments a person was handed a white stone indicating a vote of innocence (black stone for guilt) /