Pergamum, at one time the capital city of the Roman province of Asia Minor, was known for its spectacular architecture and many beautiful temples dedicated to a variety of gods. The apostle John wrote a letter to the Christians who lived in Pergamum. Recorded in Revelation 2:12?17, this letter is identified as being ?the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword? (verse 12). This introduction held special significance for people of Pergamum. The provincial governor in that city had what was known as ?the right of the sword??Rome?s authority to decide which prisoners or accused persons would live or die (including Christians who refused to honor the ?divine? Caesar). So John?s letter is a clear statement saying that Jesus?not the governor?has power over life and death.
John also gives the city of Pergamum an unusual designation: ?I know where
you live?where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not
renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness who
was put to death in your city?where Satan lives? (verse
13).
Audio: Satan's Throne
Why did John refer to Pergamum as the place where Satan lived? What would it have been like for one of those early believers to live in a city described as Satan?s throne?
