Revelation 2:13; Satan’s Seat

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Revelation 2:13 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, evenwhere Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas wasmy faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.

The throne of Satan has been variously identified as the altar of Zeus, the temple of Asclepius, or the shape of the acropolis. [Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary, NewTestament – Hebrews to Revelation.]

This altar, found on the acropolis of the altar platform of Zeus, was enormous in its dimensions and featured beautiful pieces of sculpture. Such magnificence could easily suggest a special throne, even that of Satan. As a symbol of “rampant paganism,” this altar could easily have pictured for John all the idolatry that dominated Pergamum. [Swete; Beasley-Murray]

Recalled visiting this place in 1998. It was located on high ground overlooking the city.

However, the church’s most pernicious enemy was Rome, who had its tentacles both in Asia’s political and religious affairs. The first temple in Asia to be dedicated to the emperor cult was built in Pergamum in 29 B.C. by Augustus. By the time Revelation was written, emperor worship had been established in Pergamum for over a century. Because Satan was the underlying force in Rome’s hostility to the church, Pergamum could be described as his throne. [Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary, NewTestament – Hebrews to Revelation.]

Ephesians 6:11-12 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 

The whole armour of God was enlisted to protect His people during those days of persecution. It is also effectual for the people of God today. Therefore, God’s people are to put on the whole armour of God that we may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Amen.