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

REVELATION 2:6KJV
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Revelation 2:6 (KJV)

What does Revelation 2:6 mean?

Revelation 2:6 describes how Jesus commends the church in Ephesus for hating the actions of the Nicolaitans, a group whose practices Jesus also rejects. The verse highlights that their rejection of these deeds is something Jesus sees as positive.

In this part of Revelation, Jesus is speaking to the Christians in Ephesus through a message delivered by John. The situation involves Jesus evaluating the church’s strengths and weaknesses. Here, Jesus points out that, even though He had earlier criticized them for losing their first love, He approves of their stance against the Nicolaitans—a group known for behaviors or teachings that went against the values Jesus taught.

The Greek behind Revelation 2:6

  • "Nicolaitans" (Νικολαϊτῶν, Nikolaitōn): This group is mentioned only in Revelation. The exact details about them are uncertain, but the Greek name suggests followers of someone named Nicolas. Their "deeds" are presented as clearly negative in this context.
  • "Deeds" (ἔργα, erga): This word refers to actions or works. The focus is not just on beliefs but on specific behaviors that the church and Jesus both reject.
  • "Hatest" (μισεῖς, miseis) and "hate" (μισῶ, misō): Both words mean to strongly dislike or reject. The repetition emphasizes that Jesus and the church share the same strong opposition to these actions.

Why Revelation 2:6 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Jesus does not always rebuke; He also recognizes and affirms what a church is doing right, even when He has other concerns.
  • The mention of the Nicolaitans connects to other parts of Revelation, showing that certain behaviors or teachings were a recurring problem in early Christian communities.
  • By focusing on "deeds," the verse highlights that actions, not just beliefs, were a key concern for Jesus in His messages to the churches.

Where else these words appear

“Nicolaitans” Greek G3531 · used in 2 verses

  • Revelation 2:15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.

“hatest” 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.

“also” Greek G2504 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • John 10:15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.