reward from Christ's own hand. Also, how suitable it is; “a crown of life:” the life worn out in his
service, or laid down in his cause, shall be rewarded with a much better life, which shall be eternal.
The second death is unspeakably worse than the first death, both in the agonies of it, and as it is
eternal death: it is indeed awful to die, and to be always dying. If a man is kept from the second
death and wrath to come, he may patiently endure whatever he meets with in this world.
Verses 12–17
The word of God is a sword, able to slay both sin and sinners. It turns and cuts every way; but
the believer need not fear this sword; yet this confidence cannot be supported without steady
obedience. As our Lord notices all the advantages and opportunities we have for duty in the places
where we dwell, so he notices our temptations and discouragements from the same causes. In a
situation of trials, the church of Pergamos had not denied the faith, either by open apostacy, or by
giving way so as to avoid the cross. Christ commends their stedfastness, but reproves their sinful
failures. A wrong view of gospel doctrine and Christian liberty, was a root of bitterness from which
evil practices grew. Repentance is the duty of churches and bodies of men, as well as of particular
persons; those who sin together, should repent together. Here is the promise of favour to those that
overcome. The influences and comforts of the Spirit of Christ, come down from heaven into the
soul, for its support. This is hidden from the rest of the world. The new name is the name of adoption;
when the Holy Spirit shows his own work in the believer's soul, this new name and its real import
are understood by him.
Verses 18–29
Even when the Lord knows the works of his people to be wrought in love, faith, zeal, and
patience; yet if his eyes, which are as a flame of fire, observe them committing or allowing what
is evil, he will rebuke, correct, or punish them. Here is praise of the ministry and people of Thyatira,
by One who knew the principles from which they acted. They grew wiser and better. All Christians
should earnestly desire that their last works may be their best works. Yet this church connived at
some wicked seducers. God is known by the judgments he executes; and by this upon seducers, he
shows his certain knowledge of the hearts of men, of their principles, designs, frame, and temper.
Encouragement is given to those who kept themselves pure and undefiled. It is dangerous to despise
the mystery of God, and as dangerous to receive the mysteries of Satan. Let us beware of the depths
of Satan, of which those who know the least are the most happy. How tender Christ is of his faithful
servants! He lays nothing upon his servants but what is for their good. There is promise of an ample
reward to the persevering, victorious believer; also knowledge and wisdom, suitable to their power
and dominion. Christ brings day with him into the soul, the light of grace and of glory, in the
presence and enjoyment of him their Lord and Saviour. After every victory let us follow up our
advantage against the enemy, that we may overcome and keep the works of Christ to the end.
Chapter 3