Pergamum was known to be a city of multiple idolatrous cults. These cults included the worship of Roman emperors, the Greek god Zeus, and many other Roman and Greek idols. Thyatira was known for its cloth-making and metalworking industries, both of which were heavily controlled by trade guilds. Belonging to a trade guild was critical to get a job and achieve success, but these trade guilds also had many idolatrous and immoral practices. Whether due to religious and cultural pressure as in Pergamum or job pressure as in Thyatira, Christians are constantly tempted to compromise with idolatry and immorality. Furthermore, there were false teachers in the church who promoted compromise with the world, leading faithful believers to become unfaithful to Jesus. Satan continues to use such tactics today to lead God’s children astray.

The only antidote is to hear and accept the sharp, double-edged sword (2:12) of God’s word. The Holy Spirit helps us to hear God’s word. We cannot deceive God; Jesus searches our hearts and minds and knows us (2:23). God’s word must lead us to repentance, specifically to repent our compromise with the world. Let Jesus’ words penetrate your heart and lead you to repentance.
Application: Father, we are tempted to compromise with idols and sexual immorality. We repent and ask for your Spirit to help us hold on to Jesus’ words.
One Word: Repent based on Jesus’ words