Nicolaitan 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 believe this Nicolas was Nimrod, the archrebel who conquered the people and founded a man-made civilization within two centuries after the Flood. While alive, Nimrod placed himself in the position of authority over others, and after his death, his admirers worshipped him as a divine hero, calling him Baal, meaning master or lord, and also Santa, a name used throughout Asia Minor. Santa Claus is a shortened form of Santa Nicholas or Saint Nicholas, and many unknowingly honor this Nicholas through customs associated with December 25, originally the Saturnalia or birthday of Nimrod. Others suggest that the Nicolas referenced in Revelation 2 is a different man, a proselyte from Antioch, ordained as a deacon early in the church's history. Writings from that time indicate he later followed Gnostic teachings, became an ascetic, and many adopted his new doctrine.

The Nicolaitans are in part responsible for Christianity's acceptance of Christmas, Easter, Halloween, and other unbiblical practices. More significantly, Nicolaitanism represents a broader philosophy that can be blamed for the organized and systematic removal of God's law as a central pillar of the Christian way of life. This shift occurred due to an attitude and approach to the truth found in the Nicolaitan heresy. Jesus mentions Nicolaitanism in His letters to the seven churches in Revelation 2, indicating not only a historical movement but also a current and future trend within the church of God. Understanding Nicolaitanism and its workings may be crucial to spiritual survival. The word Nicolaos, from which Nicolaitan derives, means "conqueror of the people" in Greek. Some define Nicolaitanism as the belief and practice of hierarchical government, viewing it as the source of the church's problems. However, this interpretation may not align with the name's meaning, as Nicolaos does not necessarily carry a negative connotation. It can suggest a champion of the people, a popular hero, rather than a tyrant. Additionally, the name has a military association, implying conquest through might and strategy, not necessarily governance. Limiting Nicolaitanism to hierarchical government is arbitrary, as conquest can occur through various means beyond abusive rule. Revelation 2:6 and 2:15 reveal Jesus' hatred for the deeds and doctrine of the Nicolaitans, linking their teachings to the heresy of Balaam, which involves idolatry and sexual immorality. This connection suggests that Nicolaitanism embodies an antinomian spirit, an attitude of lawlessness that allows sin to infest the church. When members teach and practice that they are not obliged to keep God's laws, sin inevitably breaks out vigorously.