The church of Pergamos, as described in Revelation 2:12-17, is a mixed bag, receiving both praise and admonition from Christ. Like Ephesus, Pergamos is commended for some positive traits but also faces serious warnings. Christ notes that He has a few things against them, indicating they have strayed further from Him in certain ways compared to Ephesus. He calls them to repent, threatening swift action if they fail to do so, just as He warned Ephesus. Pergamos is characterized as a church of cultural compromisers, dwelling in a city steeped in paganism and satanic influence, where satan's throne is said to reside. This city, with a population estimated between 120,000 and 200,000 during the first and second centuries, was a significant center of Roman government in Asia, fiercely loyal to Rome and a stronghold of the Imperial cult. It housed numerous temples to various gods such as Zeus, Athena, Dionysus, Hera, Demeter, Persephone, Isis, Serapis, and Asclepius, alongside a prominent spa dedicated to healing. The pervasive pagan culture, marked by serpent iconography and emperor worship, placed immense pressure on Christians to conform through sacrifices and participation in idolatrous practices. Refusal to comply often led to accusations of atheism, disloyalty, and being haters of mankind, resulting in social ostracism, economic hardship, and even violence. Christ introduces Himself to the Pergamenes with the image of a sharp two-edged sword, symbolizing His authority and readiness to judge. He acknowledges their challenging environment, commending them for holding fast to His name and not denying the faith, even amidst persecution, as exemplified by Antipas, His faithful witness who endured to the end. However, He rebukes them for tolerating false teachings akin to those of Balaam and the Nicolaitans, which lead to disobedience and compromise with the surrounding corrupt society. He commands them to repent immediately, warning that if they do not, He will come quickly and fight against those who persist in sin, casting them out as enemies. To those who overcome, Christ promises hidden manna, a white stone, and a new name known only to the recipient. These rewards signify eternal life, union with Him, acquittal from sin, and intimate fellowship in the Kingdom of God. The church of Pergamos is thus urged to resist compromise, hold fast to His revealed character and faith, and endure faithfully to avoid the wrath of His judgment.