But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
REVELATION 2:14KJVWhat does Revelation 2:14 mean?
Revelation 2:14 describes how Jesus, speaking to the church in Pergamum, criticizes them for tolerating people who follow the teachings of Balaam—specifically, those who encourage others to eat food offered to idols and to engage in sexual immorality. The verse points out that these actions are stumbling blocks, leading believers away from faithfulness.
In this passage, Jesus addresses the Christians in Pergamum through a message delivered by John. The reference to Balaam and Balac recalls a story from the Old Testament, where Balaam advised Balac, king of Moab, on how to entice Israel into sin. The verse uses this example to warn the church against allowing similar corrupt influences within their community, highlighting the seriousness of compromising with surrounding pagan practices.
The Greek behind Revelation 2:14
- "Stumblingblock" (σκάνδαλον, skandalon): This word often refers to something that causes someone to trip or fall, both literally and morally. Here, it means a temptation or trap that leads believers into sin.
- "Doctrine" (διδαχή, didachē): This term means "teaching" or "instruction." The verse criticizes the church for allowing teachings that lead people away from God’s ways.
- "Fornication" (πορνεύω, porneuō): This word refers to sexual immorality in a broad sense, not just one specific act. The verse links this behavior with idolatry as serious issues facing the church.
Why Revelation 2:14 matters
- The verse clarifies that Jesus holds churches accountable not only for their own actions but also for what they tolerate among their members, especially when it comes to teachings that lead others astray.
- By referencing Balaam, the verse connects the struggles of the early church with patterns seen throughout biblical history, showing that the temptation to compromise with surrounding culture is a recurring challenge.
- This warning helps readers understand the importance of discernment and faithfulness within a community, especially when outside influences threaten to undermine core beliefs.