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12. And to the angel [messenger, Arius] of
the church in Pergamos [the time of earthly elevation; Diaglott,
Appendix, "heighth"] write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword
[the Word of God] with two edges [Old and New Testaments];
13. I know thy works [in the conditions surrounding you], and
where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat [the throne or government of
the adversary] is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith,
even in those days wherein Antipas [those opposing the Pope] was my
faithful martyr, who was slain among you [the church of this period], where
Satan dwelleth [in his throne or government].
14. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast
there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam [teaching of union with the civil
powers—the doctrine of Balaam], who taught Balac [world powers] to
cast a stumblingblock before the [spiritual] children of Israel, to eat
things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication [with the Moabites—the
world].
15. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes
[conquering the people], which thing I hate.
16. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly [shall take measures
against thee speedily], and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth
[by a rigorous proclamation of truth. This proclamation was given by Arius and his
followers].
17. He that hath an ear [a receptive and understanding
mind], let him hear what the Spirit [of promise] saith unto
[all] the churches [indicates unto all seven periods of the churches]; To
him that overcometh will I give to eat [partake] of the hidden manna
[incorruptibility], and will give him a white stone [the fruition of
which the holy Spirit has been a pledge], and in the stone [an
inheritance] a new name written [character developed on earth and
transplanted there] which no [natural] man knoweth saving he that
receiveth it. |
