Matthew Henry Commentary Revelation 2:12-17

"and to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These things saith he that hath the sharp two-edged sword: I know where thou dwellest, [even] where Satan`s throne is; and thou holdest fast my name, and didst not deny my faith, even in the days of Antipas my witness, my faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there some that hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also some that hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans in like manner. Repent therefore; or else I come to thee quickly, and I will make war against them with the sword of my mouth. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches. To him that overcometh, to him will I give of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and upon the stone a new name written, which no one knoweth but he that receiveth it." — Revelation 2:12-17 (ASV)

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 apostasy or by giving way so as to avoid the cross. Christ commends their steadfastness, 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 groups of people, as well as of individuals; those who sin together should repent together. Here is the promise of favour to those who 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 them.