Revelation 2:15 – “Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this short but weighty verse, Jesus continues His correction of the church in Pergamum. After mentioning the issue of compromise linked to the teaching of Balaam in the previous verse, He now says, “Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans.” The word likewise connects the two problems: both the teaching of Balaam and the teaching of the Nicolaitans involved leading people into sin, especially idolatry and sexual immorality.
The Nicolaitans were a group in the early church who claimed to follow Christ but taught that Christians could live however they wanted—especially when it came to giving in to sinful cultural practices. Their teaching likely encouraged believers to blend in with the pagan world, to participate in feasts to idols, and to ignore God’s standards for sexual purity.
Jesus isn’t just saying that these false teachings exist—He’s pointing out that the church was tolerating them. That’s the concern. They weren’t necessarily all following the Nicolaitan teachings, but they were allowing people in the congregation to hold onto and spread these views without correction. And Jesus takes that seriously.
Historical Context
The city of Pergamum was full of pressure. Emperor worship was normal. Pagan temples were everywhere. Sexual immorality was part of religious rituals, and idol feasts were a regular part of social life. Saying “no” to these things could mean losing friends, income, or even your life.
Some believers in Pergamum stayed faithful, but others were starting to follow the Nicolaitan line of thinking—compromise a little to get along. Blend in so you don’t get hurt. Don’t make such a big deal out of things like sexual sin or idol food. The Nicolaitans probably preached a twisted version of grace: “Since you’re forgiven, just do what feels right.”
But Jesus didn’t see that as a small issue. He called it out directly. The church was beginning to let go of the very things that made them holy and distinct.
Theological Implications
This verse shows that truth and purity in the church matter deeply to Jesus. False teaching isn’t just a matter of opinion—it’s a danger to the soul. When a church allows corrupt ideas to take root, it opens the door for deeper problems and spiritual destruction.
The Nicolaitans represent any teaching that twists God’s grace into permission to sin (see Jude 1:4). And the bigger issue here is not only that the teaching existed—but that the church allowed it to go unchecked. Jesus is holding the whole congregation accountable, not just the individuals spreading the false ideas.
This also reveals that Jesus expects churches to deal with error—not with anger or cruelty, but with truth and courage.
Literary Analysis
This verse follows the same pattern Jesus uses in all His messages to the seven churches: commendation, correction, and call to action. The phrase “you also have” is pointed—Jesus is saying, “Just like the sin of Balaam’s followers, this problem is present in your community.”
There’s no long explanation here, just a clear statement. Jesus uses economy of words to emphasize seriousness. He doesn’t have to say a lot to say everything: false teaching is dangerous, and letting it remain is not acceptable.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Revelation 2:6 – Jesus praises the church in Ephesus for hating the practices of the Nicolaitans.
- Jude 1:4 – Condemns those who pervert the grace of God into a license for immorality.
- 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 – A little sin in the church spreads like yeast through dough.
- 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – Warns of people turning away from truth to follow what they want to hear.
- Galatians 5:13 – Freedom in Christ is not an excuse to indulge the flesh.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that false teaching still exists, and it often comes dressed in Christian language. It may sound loving or inclusive. It may talk about grace or freedom. But if it leads people away from God’s truth—especially when it excuses sin—it is dangerous.
As believers today, we need to be alert. Not everything taught in churches or Christian circles is right. Jesus calls us to measure everything by His Word and to lovingly correct false ideas instead of tolerating them.
This verse is also a call to courage. Sometimes standing for truth means risking relationships or reputation. But Jesus is more concerned with purity than popularity.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t stay silent when something harmful is spreading among His people. Jesus points out the problem not because He’s harsh, but because He cares. He knows that sin damages lives, and He refuses to let it quietly grow in His church.
Love speaks truth. Love protects. Jesus’ correction here is an act of love aimed at preserving the health and witness of His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), and a good shepherd defends the flock from wolves. That’s what He’s doing here. He’s not only Savior—He’s also Lord. And as Lord, He has the authority to call out anything that corrupts His people.
This verse also points back to Jesus’ role as the one with the “sharp, double-edged sword” (Revelation 2:12). His Word doesn’t just comfort—it cuts through lies. He uses it to cleanse and correct His church because He wants them to walk in truth and freedom.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there teachings or ideas you’ve encountered that sound “Christian” but lead away from biblical truth?
- What are some ways today’s church is tempted to tolerate sin for the sake of comfort or acceptance?
- How can you personally stay alert to false teaching without becoming judgmental?
- In what ways does Jesus’ correction in this verse show His love for the church?
- How can we speak truth in love when we see compromise in our church or community?