Revelation 2:6

But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

Revelation 2:6 (KJV)

Context

The book of Revelation is a prophetic letter written by the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos. It contains messages from Jesus Christ to seven churches in Asia Minor, the region of modern-day Turkey. Each message includes commendations, rebukes, and instructions for the church.

Revelation 2:6 addresses the church in Ephesus, a prominent city and an important center for early Christianity. The church had a strong reputation for labour, perseverance, and rejection of false apostles. However, they had left their initial love for Christ. In this verse, Jesus commends them for hating the deeds of the Nicolaitans.

Meaning

The Nicolaitans were a group within the early Christian community whose specific beliefs and practices are not clearly defined in the Bible. Various interpretations exist, but it is generally believed that they promoted a compromise with pagan practices and advocated for the loosening of moral standards. They may have sought to merge Christianity with pagan rituals and engage in licentious behaviour. Their teachings were condemned by Jesus.

The Greek word translated “deeds” (erga) can also mean “works” or “practices,” and the verse specifically condemns their deeds, not merely their doctrine. The text does not provide definitive details about their beliefs, but their deeds are clearly described as hateful. Christ’s statement “which I also hate” emphasizes that hatred of sin is shared between Christ and the faithful. All sin is hateful to Christ because it is contrary to His nature, will, and Gospel. What is hateful to Him should also be hateful to His people.

Biblical connections

The deeds of the Nicolaitans are later mentioned in Revelation 2:15, where the church in Pergamos is rebuked for holding to the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, showing that what was hated in Ephesus was tolerated elsewhere. The contrast between the two churches highlights the importance of both sound doctrine and holy living. This commendation is significant because it shows that even a church that has lost its first love can still hold firm against false teaching and immoral practices.

Application

• Firm stance against compromise: The church in Ephesus serves as an example of the importance of maintaining a firm stance against compromise with worldly practices and false teachings. They stood against the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which Jesus also hated. Christians are called to discern and reject teachings or practices that contradict the truth of God’s Word.

• Love for righteousness: The church’s hatred of the Nicolaitans’ deeds demonstrates their love for righteousness and their commitment to upholding God’s standards. It is essential for believers to have a genuine love for what is good and holy, actively opposing anything that undermines or dilutes the truth of the Gospel.

• Jesus’ affirmation: Despite the church’s shortcomings, Jesus acknowledges their hatred for the Nicolaitans’ deeds. This shows that Jesus sees and appreciates the church’s efforts to uphold righteousness and reject compromise. Even when we stumble, our sincere efforts to pursue righteousness and truth are noticed by Christ.

Reflection

Let us examine our own hearts. Do we share Christ’s hatred of sin, both in our own lives and in the world around us? Genuine faith includes a moral discernment that aligns with Christ’s own hatred of evil, not a vague tolerance that compromises with sin. Let His affirmation encourage us to continue growing in faith and obedience, relying on His grace to transform us.