When faced with the hardships, trials and temptations of life, many people rely on themselves. They have courageous resolve and are self-sufficient. This appears to be a trait that we might desire to have in times of trial. We try to be stoic and deal with and fix matters by ourselves. But are we masters of our fate? Are we really the captains of our soul? We can tell ourselves that, but pretending to be God causes many of us to be exhausted, weary, discontent. Discontentment leads us vulnerable to compromises that the enemy brings to us.
One of the marks of a true and living church is love for God and others. As a result of this love for God, a true and living church has a willingness to suffer, refusing to compromise because of Christ.
The attribute of Jesus we see talked about in this passage is the sharped, two-edged sword. (vs. 12) Jesus is gentle and lowly. He made time to talk to young children. In His humility, He willingly laid down His life. But He is also the warrior King. Why does Jesus present himself to the church at Pergamum as one going to battle? Because they WERE in a battle. We are also in a battle. It isn’t against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realm. (Ephesians 6:12) How can we win the battle when there are endless opportunities to compromise?
Sermon Outline
1. In persecution, hold fast to Christ. Vs. 13
2. Reject the “Trojan horse” of compromise. Vs. 14-16
3. Learn to be satisfied in Christ. Vs. 17
