A Watered Down Church In A Wicked World

In last night’s study of Revelation 2:8-29, we looked at 3 churches: Smyrna, Pergamum and Thyatira. I want to briefly discuss one of those: Pergamum. 3 things stand out about this church.

1. They were located where Satan had his throne, where Satan lived.
2. They remained true to Jesus and did not renounce their faith in him.
3. They allowed false teachings and the practice of open sin.

Pergamum was the capital city and religious center of the Roman province of Asia Minor. There were 4 temples in the city which were dedicated to the worship of Greek gods, and 3 temples dedicated to Roman Emperors, who were also worshiped as gods. The Church in Pergamum stood for the worship of Jesus in the midst of that, but they failed to stand against the things which stood in opposition to that worship.

I asked last night if anyone else believes America is fast becoming the place where Satan has his throne, where he lives. I believe we are seeing that happen, and the church too often accepts and supports it without standing for the truth of God’s Word. The 21st Century has become the age of acceptance, in the name of personal rights. I have made a statement about which I hope to write a book at some point: “It’s not about OUR rights; It’s about HIS wrongs,” meaning the things God says are wrong. He is the ultimate Judge before whom we will all someday stand. While we must love every person as Jesus loves them, and us, that does not mean we should also accept things which God says are wrong. As we approach Independence Day Weekend, I fear for the future of America.

In the Old Testament, God sent judgment on both Israel and Judah, his chosen people, because they turned from him, worshiped idols and lived contrary to his commands. Does that mean there were no followers of God in Israel and Judah? No. There were people who lived faithfully for him. But the nations as a whole accepted idol worship and sinful practices. Thus God allowed both Kingdoms to be destroyed and carried away into captivity. The Church in Pergamum also had faithful followers of Jesus. But they still accepted and approved of sinful practices inside and outside the church. God said judgment was coming if they did not repent.

It seems to me this is quickly becoming the case with the church, or at least with many Christians, in America. We certainly must love everyone and seek to reach every person for Jesus, regardless of their past or present. But we cannot support practices which stand in stark contrast to God’s Word. The Church is the hope for the world, and for our nation. It must bring light and truth into a dark and deceived world, rather than walk in darkness and deception alongside it. In Romans 8:32, the Apostle Paul condemned not only those who continue to do these things, but also the people who approve of those who practice them. If the church stands for what is right, instead of approving of what is wrong, America may have a chance. If the church does not, I fear America’s days are numbered. And that is a frightening thing to consider.

“Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Those are my thoughts this morning. Agree or disagree? Let’s talk about it.