Pergamum

Pergamum was one of the seven churches of Asia addressed in the Book of Revelation, known for its faithfulness despite living in a city associated with Satan's throne.

Pergamum, also known as Pergamon, was an ancient city located in the region of Mysia in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). It is one of the seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation (Rev. 1:11; 2:12). In the letter to the church in Pergamum, the risen Christ commends the believers for holding fast to His name and not denying their faith, even in the face of martyrdom (Rev. 2:13). However, Christ also rebukes them for tolerating some who held to the teachings of Balaam and the Nicolaitans, which involved idolatry and sexual immorality (Rev. 2:14-15). Pergamum is described as the place where "Satan's throne" is located (Rev. 2:13), possibly referring to the city's numerous pagan temples and its status as a center of emperor worship. Despite the challenges and temptations they faced, the Christians in Pergamum are encouraged to repent and remain faithful, with the promise of receiving hidden manna and a new name (Rev. 2:16-17).

The chief city of Mysia, in Asia Minor. One of the “seven churches” was planted here (Rev. 1:11; 2:17). It was noted for its wickedness, insomuch that our Lord says “Satan’s seat” was there. The church of Pergamos was rebuked for swerving from the truth and embracing the doctrines of Balaam and the Nicolaitanes. Antipas, Christ’s “faithful martyr,” here sealed his testimony with his blood.

This city stood on the banks of the river Caicus, about 20 miles from the sea. It is now called Bergama, and has a population of some twenty thousand, of whom about two thousand profess to be Christians. Parchment (q.v.) was first made here, and was called by the Greeks pergamene, from the name of the city.