DISTINCTIVENESS

OPENING PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, hold me firm in the swirling world in which I live. Give me a passion for the things you love.

READ: Revelation 2:12-17

To the Church in Pergamum

12 “To the angel of the church in Pergamum write:

These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. 13 I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.

14 Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. 15 Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

17 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.

REFLECT:

Our access into God’s presence does not depend on how we feel, or how well we have performed. Jesus has opened up for us a new and living way, and we can come boldly into his presence.

One of the British TV programs I enjoy is called Escape to the Country. It follows the story of people seeking to move from the bustle of the city to the peace and quiet of the country. Not all of us can live in such idyllic locations. Pergamum was an idolatrous city, filled with pagan shrines, and with the temple of Zeus dominating the skyline. The believers who lived there experienced great opposition as well as spiritual oppression. It felt like it was the very headquarters of Satan and his demonic forces. One of the church members, Antipas, had even been martyred, yet the believers stood firm in their faith (v 13).

What an encouragement therefore, to hear Jesus say, ‘I know where you live…’ (v 13). Jesus is present in even the darkest places and most undesirable neighborhoods, watching over his people and strengthening their faith. And today you can be certain that he knows where you live – not just the geographical location, but the circumstances in which you live. He is aware of your challenges, the pressures upon you, and the temptations you face. He knows your situation and is there to help you.

APPLY:

Where do you live? How would you describe that place? What is the spiritual atmosphere like? Remember that Jesus is with you wherever you are.

CLOSING PRAYER:

Mighty God, every day I need your strength and protection, as I seek to live for you, I equip myself with your protective armor (Eph. 6), as I battle Satan’s strategies to bring me down.

WORSHIP:

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