This week the book of Revelation was being discussed by several faithful churches One of the focus points was How Jesus Christ said in Revelation 2:6 how he hated the Nicolaitans. It is also mentioned 2 times in that book that he hated them and their doctrines.

History shows us that they were a compromising group of Christians that used compromise to draw people into their sect. Mainly it was the use of tactics that were used for centuries by Balaam worship that they employed in the Christian times. Nicolaitan Literally means conquer the people. It’s also where the term in religion of “laity” came from. 

What is more concerning is the practices that they have influenced right into the modern times. This includes the allowing for immorality, secular worship, and also hierarchy, or the belief that the priesthood is over the people and have the ability to sin and not be held to the same standard. This gave way to modern systems with similar values. While the leadership may not be sinful in conduct, the idea that they are over a people and exalted over them is false.

Servant leadership is Christian. Christ put himself in a place of servitude while here on Earth. Even to the point of dying for our sins which is the greatest gift he could give us. This also allowed us to come directly to Him and the Father and not have a priest as a mediator. This was symbolized by the curtain in the temple torn in two when he was crucified.

His death and resurrection allowed for the Holy Spirit to be given which also cemented the relationship. Through our relationship with him we are able to be close to him and emulate his behavior in many ways including servant leadership. Which is outlined in Matthew 20:25-28. 

Remember: anything less than what he told us to do puts us in another category away from Christ. The same one that belongs to the Pharisees and the Nicolaitans.

Have a great Sabbath!

Your brother in Christ,

Steve Koenig