Periodically, I will be posting brief
commentaries on various topics related to the publication of my book These Prophets and the Revelation (Mindstir
Media, 2013). The content of the book is
a comprehensive study in Biblical prophecy as it interfaces with current world
conditions and developments. The content of these postings are provided to
stimulate an interest in the book itself which can be obtained at Amazon.com
for a nominal price.
The current topic of discussion is
the doctrine of the Nicolaitans brought forth as an issue in the churches at
Ephesus and Pergamos. Before touching on the doctrine and its applications to
Christian churches or assemblies, it is first necessary to define the term for
within the definition of the word lays the root of understanding the issue as
is raised in the Scripture. The word is
a compound word from the Greek that can be broken down into two segments. The
prefix Nico contains the meaning of conquest or victory, and the second portion
of the word deals with the concept of the laity, or simply said the people
within the assembly. Therefore, what we
have expressed in the word is a victory over or the conquest
of the people. The appearance of the word is twice recurrent in the second chapter
of Revelation at verses six and fifteen. In the first instance, the church at Ephesus
is extolled for they have not adopted the doctrine. “But
this thou hast, that thou hate the deeds of the Nicolatians which I also hate.”
(Rev.2:6) The second appearance is
found at verse fifteen and addressed to the church or assembly at Pergamos. Again, we see the emphatic attitude of rebuke
of the Holy Spirit towards the doctrine as a condition requiring repentance. “So hast
thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.”
(Rev.2:15) Note that in both contexts the use of the word hate expresses a
strong negative condemnation of its practice. What can be gleaned from other Scriptures
related to this principle and its operation within the context of the Christian
assemblies?
Jesus’ words at Matthew 20:25-27
gives clear instruction concerning the order of conduct and function of all of
those within any gathering of his people. “You know that the princes of the Gentiles
exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise dominion over
them. But it shall not be so among you,
but whoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; and whoever will
be chief among you, let him be your servant.” And again: “But be not ye called Rabbi: but one is your Master, even Christ; and
all ye are brethren.” (Matthew 23:8)
These exhortations bring into
judgment the condition and function of today’s Christian assemblies,
denominations and fellowships, whatever their other doctrines may entail for
there exists among them almost without exception the doctrine of the
Nicolaitans. That is to say there exists
universally within what we would refer to as the church a division from and a separation between the leadership elevating them above the laity
at large or the people generally who are involved in the assembly; victorious over the people. This
reality is a restraint upon the Spirit of God to anoint certain individuals to
carry out legitimate ministry and the function of spiritual gifts, as well as
the legitimate recognition and function of a plurality (not one individual)
of elders to oversee the ministry and shepherd the people according to the
gifting and directing of the Holy Spirit.
From a prophetic perspective there
is one yet to be revealed who will assume and demand absolute dominion and
authority over the people employing the principle of Nicolaitanism. He is the Antichrist whose power and
anointing come from Satan. He will
conquer and rule the people utilizing this presumed and elevated superiority to
deceive the people to their own destruction.
“And
there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and
power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. And he opened his
mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and
them that dwell in heaven. And it was
given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was
given him over all kindreds, and lounges, and nations.” (Revelation 13:5-7)
David
Lance Dean
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