The Compromising Church | Revelation 2:12-17

In late Spring 2025, Coastline began a seven-week journey through the Seven Letters to the Seven Churches in Revelation.When most people think of Revelation, they picture beasts, dragons, strange numbers, and the antichrist. But before all of that, the book opens with something deeply personal: Jesus speaking directly to His Church. This series has been a powerful experience for our congregation—challenging, encouraging, and deeply relevant. As we studied each letter, we created small group questions to help people dive deeper, reflect honestly, and grow spiritually. I’m sharing those questions here so that others can benefit from them too—whether you’re leading a small group, studying on your own, or walking through Revelation with your church.

Small Group | The Compromising Church | Revelation 2:12-17

Today we continue our sermon series through the seven letters to the churches in Revelation. The Roman Emperor Domitian tried to silence John by killing him, but when that failed, he exiled him to the island of Patmos. What Rome meant for isolation, God used for encouragement and revelation. Even in exile, Jesus showed up in power. Pergamum was a significant and influential city, the capital of Asia Minor for nearly 250 years and home to nearly 200,000 residents. It wasn’t just politically powerful, it was spiritually compromised. The people worshiped Caesar and many other false gods. As we study this church, let’s learn how to remain faithful in a compromising culture.

1) Compromise often feels like a shortcut to success or acceptance but it can cost us our integrity or spiritual health. Share a time when you compromised in some area of life. What were the results and what did you learn from this situation?

2) The city of Pergamum was a spiritually dark place with a demonic foothold (Read Revelation 2:12-13). Where do you see spiritual darkness or opposition to faith in  Jesus in our culture today? How should we respond?

3) Jesus encouraged the church to remain true to His name and not renounce their faith in difficult times (following the example of Antipas). What helps you stay faithful to Jesus in the face of pressure or compromise?

4) Read Revelation 2:14-16. Every church has its mistakes or shortcomings. What specific compromises did Jesus call out in Pergamum? How can we, as a church family, guard against those same dangers? What actions can we take today?

5) Jesus rebuked Pergamum for tolerating false teaching in the local church. Read Jude 3, 1 Timothy 4:16, and 2 Timothy 4:3–4. What are some ways we can stay grounded in sound doctrine and avoid being led astray?

6) Read Revelation 2:7, 11, 17. Each of the churches was urged to “hear what the Spirit says.” What helps you recognize and respond to God’s voice in your life? How have you grown in this as you’ve matured in your faith? 

7) Jesus promises the “hidden manna” to those who overcome. Read Isaiah 25:6, Luke 22:30, and Revelation 19:9. What do these passages reveal about the joy and intimacy of feasting with Christ?

Close in prayer, asking God to rekindle your love for Him this week