So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.

REVELATION 2:15KJV
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Revelation 2:15 (KJV)

What does Revelation 2:15 mean?

Revelation 2:15 says that among the people being addressed, there are some who hold to the teachings of the Nicolaitans, which Jesus strongly opposes. The verse highlights that this teaching is present in the community and is something that Jesus explicitly says he hates.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking through John to the church in Pergamum, pointing out a problem within their group. The Nicolaitans were a group known for beliefs or practices that went against what Jesus taught, though the exact details are debated. By calling out this doctrine, the verse shows that Jesus is not indifferent to what people believe and practice within the church, and he wants the community to recognize and address harmful teachings.

The Greek behind Revelation 2:15

  • νικολαϊτῶν (Nikolaitōn): This word refers to the "Nicolaitans," a group whose teachings or practices were considered corrupt or misleading by early Christians. The mention here connects directly to earlier warnings in Revelation and signals a repeated, serious concern.
  • μισῶ (misō): Translated as "I hate," this Greek word is strong and personal, showing that Jesus has an active opposition to the Nicolaitan doctrine, not just a mild disapproval. This emphasizes the seriousness of the issue.

Why Revelation 2:15 matters

  • Revelation 2:15 clarifies that Jesus is not neutral about false teachings within the church; he directly identifies and rejects them.
  • The verse connects to the larger message to the church in Pergamum, warning them not only about outside threats but also about dangers from within their own community.
  • By naming the Nicolaitans and expressing hatred for their doctrine, the verse encourages readers to be alert to teachings that might seem acceptable but are actually harmful.

Where else these words appear

“Nicolaitans” Greek G3531 · used in 2 verses

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

“doctrine” Greek G1322 · used in 29 verses

  • Matthew 7:28 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
  • John 7:16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?

“hate” Greek G3404 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
  • Luke 19:14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.
  • Romans 9:13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.

“hold” Greek G2902 · used in 46 verses

  • Matthew 9:25 But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose.
  • Mark 6:17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her.
  • Acts 2:24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.