Choose Jesus

“I know that you live in the city where Satan has his throne, yet you have remained loyal to me. You refused to deny me even when Antipas, my faithful witness, was martyred among you there in Satan’s city.” 
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭2:13‬ ‭NLT‬‬

In Pergamum there was a temple erected to Zeus, the highest Olympian god. The temple sat on the Acropolis (the highest point of the city). This temple had an altar to Zeus that was made in the form of a throne. This was, apparently, what Jesus was referring to when He said that Satan's throne was there. What a statement to make! Jesus didn't say that Satan visited the city, He said Satan had his seat there (his throne). Pergamum was definitely steeped in gross pagan worship. Satan owned this city and his headquarters of worship was located there. Satan does not dwell in Hell. He lives where we give him a home. One day, He will be banished to the lake of fire (see Revelation chapter 20). Some people have the misconception that Satan is going to rule in Hell. This is the furthest thing from the truth. Satan is a false ruler that only has a domain because we (Adam's race) gave it to him by forfeiture in Genesis 3:1-7. Satan only has what we give him. Have you given him a place in your life? Surely, he is alive and active in this world. He seeks casualties to take to the eternal Hell with him. He will not reign in Hell, he will be tormented day and night forever. "Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭20:10‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Hell will not be a party for the wicked! Hell will be a place of complete darkness, eternal fire, gnashing of teeth, and where the worm never dies (see Matthew 8:12; 22;13; 25:30; Mark 9:44,46,48).   Antipas, one of the true followers of Jesus in Pergamum, was martyred (killed) for his faith in Christ. He would not bow to the culture and it's pagan ways. It cost him his life.  Today, we must make the same choice. Embrace the culture and its pagan ways or be a true follower of Jesus Christ. I choose Jesus!! I refuse to bow in worship to Satan and his false kingdom. There is only One throne I bow before - Jesus!!! How about you?  Remember, this may cost you your life!!