Stay Pure - June 23, 2019

Jesus addresses the church at Pergamum, home of a massive Askleptorium (hospital complex). This city was renowned for its progressive sense of worship. In 29 B.C., Pergamum became the first city in Asia to build a temple for the worship of a living human king. The temple of Zeus and its magnificent altar attracted crowds as one of the 7 wonders of the world. But most of all, they venerated the god Asklepios. His huge complex of buildings brought massive riches to the city. Learning special “secrets” from the gods formed the core of Asklepios’ worship, a journey assisted by sexual promiscuity and hallucinogenic drugs.

This proud city has pressured Christians to conform, but they have stood strong even to death. However, they are now showing signs of compromise in sexual impurity and spiritual syncretism. Jesus warns them to repent and stay pure, reminding the church that His people will eternally possess the true and great secrets of God’s grace.