26.15 The King is Coming - The Revelation of Jesus Christ - The Church in Pergamos (Part 1)

Today, the Smiths begin their study in the third church on Paul's Asia Minor church planting efforts.  This time it's the city of Pergamos.  The Smiths follow the similar pattern of walking through the Scripture passages that speak of this periarticular church.  Pergamos was one of the key cities in the region, and was considered the center of a number of pagan religions.  Its 1,000 foot high hill the city was built on and around was home to many pagan houses of worship.  Having so many religious options available, the inevitable outcome for some was to syncretize their Christian faith and practice with that of these other religions.  The Lord was gracious to them in understanding when He said, "I know where you live..." meaning while challenging them to stay true to their Christian faith and not compromise, He also was willing to forgive and empower His people through the timeless truths of God's Word and the power of the Holy Spirit.  The Smiths have an interesting segment in this episode on the demonic power of one pagan god, Bacchus, who was known as the god of drunkenness.  You won't want to miss the Smiths coverage of the impact this false god has today, even in both modern American culture and our tribal cultures as well.  It's an interesting study into an interesting church in an interesting community.  Be sure to stay with the Smiths through the whole series on Christ's words to the church in Pergamos.  Right here on Indigenous Faith.