Filter by Categories
What Is the Origin of the Nicolaitans (Revelation 2:6, 15)?
Bible Questions & AnswersNicolaitan means a follower of Nicolas, derived from the Greek words nikos, meaning conqueror or destroyer, and laos, meaning people. The original Nicolas was a conqueror or destroyer of the people. Some consider this Nicolas to be Nimrod, the archrebel who conquered the people and established a man-made civilization shortly after the Flood. While alive, Nimrod positioned himself in the place of God, and after his death, his followers worshipped him as a divine hero, calling him Baal, meaning master or lord. Another name for Nimrod, used in Asia Minor, was Santa, which is linked to Santa Claus, a shortened form of Santa Nicholas or Saint Nicholas. Many unknowingly honor this Nicholas through customs associated with December 25, originally the Saturnalia or birthday of Nimrod, though these practices have been renamed to appear innocent. Others believe the Nicolas referenced in Revelation 2 is a different man, a proselyte from Antioch ordained as a deacon early in the church's history, who later followed Gnostic teachings, became an ascetic, and led many to adopt his new doctrine.
Nicolaitanism Today
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe end-time church is warned against Nicolaitanism, for it exists today. The Scriptures, plus some first century history, reveal who the Nicolaitans are.
The Seven Churches (Part Five): Pergamos
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist severely criticizes the church in Pergamos for idolatry and following the doctrine of Baalam. To those who overcome, He will grant eternal life.
The Seven Churches (Part Three): Ephesus
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist's letter to the Ephesians focuses on a people who succeeded in fighting heresy and apostates but, in the process, had left their first love.
God Hates? (Part Two)
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamAlmighty God loves righteousness—something which Gods saints should emulate. Conversely, God abhors, disdains, and hates evil, particularly the Nicolaitans'.
Letters to Seven Churches (Part Four): Pergamos
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughCultural compromise, such as found in Pergamos, brings judgment from Jesus. To those who refuse to compromise their convictions, Christ promises eternal life.
I Know Your Works
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughContrary to Protestant understanding, our works emphatically do count - showing or demonstrating (not just telling) that we will be obedient.
What Are You Leaving?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe Ephesians had a strong sense of duty and served as a vanguard in the battle against false doctrines. What was lacking was devotion to Christ.
Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen (Part Three)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsChrist cautions the Pergamos congregation to shun the doctrine of the Nicolaitans. The Church suffers when it harbors those who compromise and offend.
Work Out Your Own Salvation
Sermon by Kim MyersThe seven churches listed in Revelation 2 and 3 all have deficits and strengths. God is testing us as never before; we must prepare and endure to the end.
Letters to Seven Churches (Part Two): Ephesus
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Ephesus church effectively battled various heresies, for which Christ commends it. However, the members lost sight of the reason, having left their first love.
But Will You Love Me Tomorrow?
'Prophecy Watch' by David F. MaasIn the letters to the seven churches, Scripture foresees that a dearth of steadfastness marks the time of the end, but Christians are urged to hold fast.
Corporate Sin
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe are obligated to purge our thoughts, deeds, and words, cleaning out individual and corporate sins and replacing them with sincerity, truth, and holiness.
Does Doctrine Really Matter? (Part Twelve)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe early church was invaded by Gnosticism that denigrated the 'enslavement to Yahweh, His Law, and the Sabbath,' replacing it with Greek philosophy.
Does Doctrine Really Matter? (Part Ten)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe vast majority of Christian-professing churches has been saturated with pagan doctrines (like antinomianism and dispensationalism), derived from Gnosticism.