Revelation 2:12-17
In some ways, persecution is easier to bear than the invitation to join the world because persecution is direct opposition, whereas compromise can seem inviting. One of the greatest dangers of the Pergamos mentality is the subtle lie that if you live your life totally devoted to God, it will be a waste. But if we follow after Christ, find clarity in His World, and look at the godly role models around us, we can have the right perspective. Don’t believe the lies and propaganda of the idolatrous world, let God’s Word divide out the truth.
Pergamos: the Lax church
I. The Location (literal local church)
- The capital of Asia Minor, seat of authority
- In the course of the world and of geopolitics
- The church was prone to be mixed with the world
- Many compromised to join the culture’s welcome (verse)
- One of the greatest dangers of the Pergamos mentality is the subtle lie that if you live your life totally devoted to God, it will be a waste
- In some ways, persecution is easier to bear because it is direct opposition, whereas the tendency to compromise and give into a welcoming environment can be harder in some cases I really think
II. The Likeness of Christ
- God’s Word discerns our hearts
III. The Letter to the church (merits and warnings)
- The good, after Christ and good examples
- Holding fast the name of Christ
- Not denying the faith
- Antipas, the faithful martyr - look at him, he was all-in for the Lord and look where it got him, it cost him his life… what a waste… but God praises him and uses his example as a model and a mentor that we should follow. It is good to have godly role models and be 1
- The good, after Christ and good examples
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.