628 Standing Firm in a Culture of Compromise: Lessons from Pergamum

Wednesday, October 29th: The church in Pergamum lived in one of the most spiritually dangerous environments in the ancient world — a city Jesus called “where Satan has his throne.” Temptation, political pressure, and idolatry surrounded believers at every turn. Yet Jesus commends their courageous faithfulness, especially in the face of real persecution like the martyrdom of Antipas.

But not everyone was standing strong. Some had begun to justify compromise — blending into the culture and adopting false teaching that excused sin. Jesus calls the church to repent and return to truth, reminding them that His word — like a sharp two-edged sword — cuts through deception and reveals what is real. And for those who remain faithful? Jesus promises provision (“hidden manna”) and a white stone with a new name — a permanent reminder of belonging in God’s kingdom. Pergamum teaches us the importance of holding firmly to Christ even when culture presses hard against our convictions.

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