Pergamum, also spelled Pergamos, is one of the seven churches addressed in Revelation 2:12–17. It was an important city in Asia Minor, known for its cultural, religious, and political influence. It housed numerous pagan temples and was a center for the imperial cult, where Roman emperors were worshipped as gods.
Jesus begins His message by identifying Himself as “He who has the sharp two-edged sword” (Revelation 2:12), symbolizing His authority and judgment. He commends the believers in Pergamum for holding fast to His name and not denying the faith, even in the days of Antipas, His faithful martyr who was killed among them (Revelation 2:13). The phrase “where Satan’s throne is” likely refers to the city’s prominent pagan worship, including the great altar of Zeus or the imperial cult.
However, Jesus rebukes the church for tolerating false doctrine. He says, “I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam… and you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans” (Revelation 2:14–15). The reference to Balaam points to leading God’s people into idolatry and sexual immorality (Numbers 25; 31:16). The Nicolaitans, likewise, promoted immoral and compromising behavior under the guise of Christian liberty.
Jesus calls them to repent, warning that He will come quickly and fight against them with the sword of His mouth if they do not (Revelation 2:16). To the one who overcomes, He promises hidden manna, a white stone, and a new name written on it which no one knows except the recipient (Revelation 2:17). These are symbols of spiritual sustenance, acceptance, and a personal relationship with Christ.
Pergamum represents a church that remained loyal in the face of external persecution but compromised internally through false teaching and moral laxity. It serves as a warning to remain doctrinally pure and morally faithful while holding fast to the name of Christ.
