Reading:
Revelation 2:12-17
“These are the words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword.”
The church at Pergamum dealt with an ongoing battle of lies and
deceit, verbal manipulation, false religion, and evil, which led to one named
witness of God’s truth being killed. Perhaps there were more. Yet the death of
Antipas in their midst made all the threats against the believers very real.
“Yet, you are holding fast to my name, you did not deny your faith in
me..”. The faithful stayed the course of truth whether or not speaking it and
living it brought conflict.
The message to this church gives them three powerful promises to cling
to. Manna—provision from the Lord’s hand alone. White stone—release. A new name—new
life.
In ancient times a white stone would have been recognized as a
“favorable verdict” whether in a vote, or ticket to a public function, or
drawing lots in a criminal case. The white stone was considered to be an
“imperishable” decision.
“To everyone that conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I
will give a white stone, and on the white stone is written a new name that no
one knows except the one who receives it.”
In the Lord’s hands, the two-edged sword brought rescue, hope, and blessing
to those who held to the truth.
Psalm of Worship: Psalm 27:12
“Do not give me up to the will of my adversaries, for false witnesses
have risen against me, and they are breathing out violence.”
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