New Testament
Revelation 2:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus addresses the church in Pergamum, highlighting a serious issue within the congregation.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
In the same way, you also have people who follow the teaching of the Nicolaitans, which is something I hate.
So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus addresses the church in Pergamum, highlighting a serious issue within the congregation. Some members are following the teachings of the Nicolaitans, a group whose beliefs and practices are contrary to the teachings of Christ. The Nicolaitans are often associated with moral compromise and a disregard for the holiness that God desires from His followers. Jesus expresses His strong disapproval of these teachings, indicating that they lead believers away from true faith and obedience. This warning serves as a reminder that not all teachings within the church align with God's will, and it is crucial for believers to discern and reject false doctrines. The mention of hate signifies the seriousness of the situation; it is not merely a disagreement but a fundamental conflict with the nature of God and His expectations for His people. Therefore, the church is called to remain faithful and uphold the truth of the Gospel, resisting any influences that would lead them astray. Explore related faithfulness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 2:15 to your life
As believers, we must be vigilant about the teachings we accept and promote within our communities. Regularly studying Scripture and seeking guidance from trusted leaders can help us discern truth from falsehood. We should encourage one another to remain steadfast in our faith and reject any teachings that contradict the core principles of Christianity.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 2:15 mean?
Revelation 2:15 addresses the church in Pergamum, where some members are following the teachings of the Nicolaitans, which Jesus strongly disapproves of. This verse highlights the importance of discerning true teachings from false ones within the church.
Who are the Nicolaitans mentioned in Revelation 2:15?
The Nicolaitans were a group whose beliefs and practices were contrary to the teachings of Christ, often associated with moral compromise. Their teachings led believers away from the holiness that God desires.
What does this verse teach about church accountability?
Revelation 2:15 emphasizes the need for church accountability by warning against accepting false teachings. It serves as a reminder for congregations to uphold the truth of the Gospel and to be vigilant against influences that could lead them astray.
The Book of Revelation
Revelation 1: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
This is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gives Him to show His servants things which must shortly come to pass, sent and signified by His angel to John, who bears record of the word of God. A blessing is pronounced upon those who read and hear the words of this prophecy and keep the things written therein, for the time is at hand. John writes to the seven churches in Asia, sending grace and peace from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, who washed us from our sins in His own blood. He declares Himself Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending. John, in the isle of Patmos for the word of God, is in the Spirit on the Lord's day and hears behind him a great voice as a trumpet. Turning, he sees seven golden candlesticks and one like the Son of man among them, clothed to the foot, His head and hairs white as wool, His eyes as a flame of fire, His feet like fine brass, His voice as the sound of many waters, seven stars in His right hand, and a sharp twoedged sword going out of His mouth. John falls at His feet as dead, and the Lord lays His right hand upon him, saying, Fear not, I am the first and the last, He that liveth and was dead and is alive for evermore. He reveals that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches.
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