John reveals promises from God to the church of Pergamum for those who overcome persecution and heresy.  Those who are faithful will receive “hidden manna” and a “white stone with a new name”. These [...]

It’s fascinating to study John’s assessment of the churches of his time. We can learn so much from his insights.  Pergamum’s culture was pluralistic and residents could worship any god they chose — as long [...]

But I have a few things against you: You have some people there who follow the teaching of Balaam, who instructed Balak to put a stumbling block before the people of Israel so they would [...]

Pagan Altar/Throne from Pergamum reassembled in Germany museum “To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where [...]

This week, we tackle Revelation 2:8-11. Today, we shine a particular spotlight on the “synagogue of Satan” in an attempt to understand Jesus’ references to it twice in Revelation. First, to the church in Smyrna, [...]

Readers of Revelation have often looked for keys that could unlock the meaning of current events or decode what might happen in the future. However, when we examine John’s letter to seven churches, we find [...]

I can hear the sound of sandals sliding over sand and grit — intent on delivering a dangerous message to Smyrna. These days, we may have it delivered silently to our email inbox.  Others [...]

To the Church in Smyrna “To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. [...]

Paul speaking to the church in Ephesus: This is a church in utter persecution from every side.  John is delivering a message of hope and comfort to stay the course...but there’s a twist: “You [...]

Goody Two Shoes was the title of a popular book of the 1760s. It’s a tale of a poor orphan girl named Margery Meanwell, who goes through her early years with only one shoe. [...]