Conditions of Today - The Church in Pergamos

Subject: Conditions of Today - The Church in Pergamos

Scripture Reading: Revelation 2: 12 - 17

Memory Verse: Revelation 2: 14

Objective: To steer believers towards an uncompromising lifestyle; not one influenced by worldly practices.

Introduction: The warning continues, and the third letter was issued to the church in Pergamos- the compromising church. Compromising the commands of God creeps into believers’ lives in subtle ways and allows us to toss Jesus aside, embracing and accommodating worldly ways or ideals. To compromise is to think that we can do all that’s contrary to the words of God and keep Him too. Many believers struggle severely with compromising the words of God, and so as with the church in Pergamos, if we refuse to turn, we will be in danger of the judgment.

1.     What two specific deeds did Jesus praise some of the believers in Pergamos for? Revelation 2: 13

2.     Why was God displeased with the church in Pergamos? Revelation 2: 14; How does Numbers 25: 1 - 3 show evidence of this, and what was pronounced upon them? Jude 1: 11

3.     Identify one major influence of a compromised church in today’s world? 2 Peter 2: 1 - 2; What is said of these people? 1 Timothy 6: 3 - 5; And how are they warned? Deuteronomy 18: 20, Matthew 7: 15 - 20

Note: The doctrine of Balaam is one that attempts to mix oil and water, that is, it tries to meld the doctrine of God with that of the world. This false doctrine allows people to sin against God, turn away from God, and ignore God’s commandments, statutes and precepts, all under the great power and influence of false teachers.

4.     The present day church succumbs to Balaam’s doctrine. Identify how such a doctrine tends to sneak into the practices of the church today. Judges 3: 5 - 6

Note: The reality exists that believers today are compromising the words of God to suit their folly. They adapt secretly to practices of pagan acts, idolatry, and sexual immorality, and are unconcerned with the unseen eyes that see and know all things. If these practices are not stamped out, they will infect the church body, and we will be in danger of the judgment. God calls us to be different, and He desires nothing but purity among His people.

5.     Jesus offers hope if we are willing to correct our errors. How does Revelation 2: 17 echo this, and what admonition is given to those who wish to correct their errors? Deuteronomy 5: 32 - 33, Ephesians 4: 14, Colossians 2: 6 - 8

6.     In addition to the admonition given above, what key ingredient is needed to aid in the realignment of such a person? Psalm 119: 104, 2 Timothy 2: 25 - 26

7.     What warning comes to those who refuse to make amends? Revelation 2: 16