What does Revelation 2:6 mean?

But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. Revelation 2:6

Explanation

The verse Revelation 2:6 comes from the book of Revelation, which is largely a prophetic and apocalyptic text. This particular verse is part of a message to the church in Ephesus, as delivered by the risen Christ through the apostle John. The “deeds of the Nicolaitans” that are mentioned are not detailed within the book, but it is clear that this group’s actions were in opposition to Christian teaching and were therefore condemned. The verse expresses a commending attitude towards the Ephesian church for rejecting the Nicolaitans’ practices, which is mirrored by Christ himself when he states “which I also hate.”

Historical Context

Revelation was written toward the end of the first century A.D., a time when early Christian communities faced internal and external challenges. The Nicolaitans are mentioned only twice in the Bible, both times in Revelation (2:6, 2:15). Historically, they are thought to have been a sect with beliefs and practices considered heretical by the early church. Their precise doctrines are not well-documented, but early church fathers, like Irenaeus, associated them with antinomianism – the belief that Christians are not bound by traditional moral law.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints have attempted to make sense of who the Nicolaitans were and why their deeds were hated. Some traditionalists perceive the Nicolaitans as proponents of compromise, allowing pagan practices into Christian worship and community life. Evangelicals often interpret the condemnation as a warning against any deviation from biblical doctrine. Some reformist theologians might view the Nicolaitans through a lens of church hierarchy, suggesting they may have promoted a class of clerical elites that was contrary to the teachings of Jesus about servitude and leadership.

Practical Applications

The modern believer can draw from Revelation 2:6 the importance of discernment and integrity in faith practice. It can be seen as an encouragement to stand against moral and doctrinal corruptions and to uphold what is believed to be the true teachings of Christ. This verse can inspire Christians to evaluate their own church communities, ensuring that they are not following practices that deviate from their understanding of Christian teachings.

Cross-References

• Revelation 2:15 – “So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.”
• 1 John 4:1 – “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
• Romans 12:9 – “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key words and their meanings are as follows:

• “hatest” (μισεῖς – miseis): from the Greek verb “miseo,” meaning to hate or detest.
• “deeds” (ἔργα – erga): refers to works or actions; in this context, it means the practices or behaviors of the Nicolaitans.
• “Nicolaitans” (Νικολαῖτας – Nikolaitas): a proper noun for the sect; the etymology of the word is uncertain, though it might be associated with “victory” (nikē) and “people” (laos), possibly referring to conquerors of the people, which could imply a domineering or hierarchical structure which was looked down upon.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The Nicolaitans, as a group deviating from mainstream Christian beliefs, can be compared to other heretical sects in various religions. For instance, within Buddhism, there were the early schools that split based on interpretations of dharma. In Ancient Greek religion, there were mystery cults that diverged from mainstream Hellenic practices. All these splinter groups reflect the universal human tendency towards religious interpretation, deviation, and the establishment’s attempts to maintain orthodoxy.

Scientific Perspectives

Science does not specifically address the theological concepts within the verse. However, the study of psychology and sociology may provide insights into why groups like the Nicolaitans might arise within a religious context. It explores the dynamics of in-group and out-group behaviors, how belief systems form, and the impact of societal and cultural influences on religious movements.

Commentaries

Various commentaries have built on what little is known about the Nicolaitans to flesh out a more complete understanding of this verse. Matthew Henry’s Commentary suggests that the Nicolaitans were likely guilty of idolatry and fornication, common issues in pagan worship of the time. The Pulpit Commentary aligns with this thought and suggests their deeds were reviled because they led Christians astray. Meanwhile, more contemporary theological scholars might focus less on the specifics of the Nicolaitans’ identity and more on the idea of staying true to Christian dogma and ethical practices.