16th March 2014

The reading is from Revelation 2: 12- 17 continuing with the “ Spirit of Jesus” and looking at the message to the church at Pergamum. The city was significant because of its great library and also it’s close relationship with Rome. People came from all over the world seeking healing – from the godAsclepius. There were temples to Zeus, Dionysus, Athene, and it was also a centre for Caesar worship. Pergamum was a dark and difficult place to live as God’s people and to shine out in witness.

 He tells them v14 that they are tolerating false teaching (probably from some within the church). The talk raises the question with regard to diversity “. What can be tolerated within the membership of the churches and what must not be tolerated? “Or rather "what diversity will Jesus celebrate and encourage and what won’t he tolerate?" Together we therefore have to rely on learning from God in how to read our Bibles and to see what God says.

 

Notes will usually be available on the downloads section of the  website .