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

“These are powerful words, in that they came from our Savior who is so rich in love. Whoever exactly the Nicolaitans were, and whatever exactly they did and taught, we learn something from Jesus’ opinion of them. We learn that the God of love hates sin, and wants His people to also hate sin.” – David Guzik

Irenaeus, writing in the Second Century, describes the Nicolaitans as leading lives of unrestrained indulgence including practicing adultery.

The Nicolaitans of today support and encourage sexual activities that the Lord considers to be sin. However, there is no difference in the types of sin. All sin is an abomination to the Lord. How thankful I am for the atoning blood of the Lord Jesus and the wonderful grace of God toward my sin.

Hippolytus, a student of Irenaeus, said that the Nicolaitans were associated with the Gnostics, those who claimed to have superior, special knowledge.

Among the Nicolaitans of today are people who claim the title of Prophet. They claim special knowledge and abilities. I do not doubt that the Lord can choose anyone, at any time, to be a prophet. There can be genuine prophets this very day. But I have heard proclamations by YouTube prophets that did not come to pass. These persons should consider Deuteronomy 18:20 and tremble. The Apostle Peter states that their “damnation slumbereth not” (II Peter 2:3).

Other scholars have noted that the root meanings of the words from which “Nicolaitans” is derived mean literally “to conquer the people,” indicating claims of apostolic authority and a barrier between themselves and ordinary Believers.

Today there are apparent Nicolaitans that claim the title of Apostle to set themselves above others. That is arrogant and presumptuous. An apostle is “one who is sent out.” With that definition all Christians could be apostles! Please see Matthew 28:19 and Mark 16:15.

According to the Bible commentary of Dr. William Barclay, the Nicolaitans claimed that they were not destroying Christianity, but that they were presenting a new and improved version of it. The Gospel seems to be not enough for the current Nicolaitans. There must be signs, wonders, flashing lights, smoke and entertainment.

Pray for the Lord’s church. May the inerrant Word of God and the Gospel of Salvation be sufficient for His people. May He have mercy on us all.