Today Craig and LaDonna Smith complete their study on the words of Jesus Christ to the church in Pergamos. This church had both affirmation of things they were doing well and words of correction over things that they weren't doing well. Something that can easily be said of most churches around the world today! And it's all based upon the authority and clarity of the Word of God. This podcast is first and foremost, a promoter of biblical truth, and secondarily, those truths are supported by comment that Craig and LaDonna Smith offer from their nearly fifty-years of service to Christ and His church. The key word to Pergamos from the mouth of the Lord? Repent! But in saying that, the Lord reminds Pergamos that He understands the great challenges they face because they were in a community that was the hotbed of many pagan religions and demonic practices. It's hard sometimes to live a faithful life in that kind of community. The Lord understands, is compassionate to His people, but yet holds their spiritual feet to the fire when He calls them to repent. On the positive side, He reminds them that He offers His own what He calls, Hidden Manna, which is all about the infusion into the lives of His people of His divine power, His timeless doctrinal truths, and all that is the believer's inheritance which can be enjoyed today. That manna is also tied to His body shed on the cross for our sins, which we are called to remember on a regular basis until He comes again. That is done through the regular observance at the table of the Lord as we who are part of His church celebrates communion with other believers. Craig also explains the mystery of the white stone with a new name on it as the context of the culture of that day is clarified and presented in a way that helps us all understand what the meaning of this white stone is. All important context for believers today to understand what the Lord is saying to these seven churches along the well traveled roads of Asia Minor, as the Smiths continue their study in eschatology on Indigenous Faith. Their next stop on this tour is the city of Thyatira. We'll visit there soon on an upcoming episode of Indigenous Faith! See you then!