Chapter Nine/Holding Fast to Jesus' Name - Avoid Sectarianism!

 Jesus further reproves the Christians in Pergamum saying: "So you, also, have those holding fast the teaching of Nicholaus likewise." (Revelation 2:15) Previously, Jesus had commended the Ephesians for their hatred of the deeds of this sect. But the Christians in Pergamum need counsel on keeping the congregation free from sectarianism. More firmness is needed in upholding Christian standards so that the unity for which Jesus prayed at John 17:20-23 may be preserved. It is necessary "both to exhort by the teaching that is healthful and to reprove those who contradict." - TITUS 1:9.

From early days, the Christian congregation has had to contend with proud apostates, who by smooth deceptive speech "cause divisions and occasions for stumbling contrary to the teaching" provided through Jehovah's channel. (Romans 16:17, 18) The apostle Paul, warned of this threat in almost all his letters. In modern times, when Jesus has restored the new congregation to it Christian purity, the danger of sectarianism remains. Hence. any who may have become inclined to follow a breakaway group, thus forming a sect, should heed Jesus' words: "Therefore repent, if you do not, I am coming to you quickly, and I will war with them with the long sword of my mouth." - REVELATION 2:16. 

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