King James Version

What Does Revelation 2:15 Mean?

Revelation 2:15 in the King James Version says “So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.”

Revelation 2:15 · KJV

Context

13

I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.

14

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.

15

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.

16

Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

17

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

Read Revelation 2 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.... This verse from Revelation's vision of letters to ephesus, smyrna, pergamum, thyatira - love lost, faithful suffering, compromise employs apocalyptic imagery rich with Old Testament allusions and symbolic meaning. The Greek text uses vivid apocalyptic language characteristic of Jewish prophetic literature, drawing heavily from Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah.

The symbolism must be interpreted within its first-century context while recognizing timeless spiritual realities. The imagery would resonate powerfully with persecuted believers facing Roman imperial cult worship, providing hope that despite present suffering, Christ reigns sovereign and will consummate His kingdom. The apocalyptic genre uses symbolic numbers (seven, twelve, 144,000), colors, beasts, and cosmic imagery to convey theological truth rather than photographic descriptions.

Christologically, Revelation consistently exalts Jesus as the victorious Lamb, the faithful witness, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Every vision ultimately points to Christ's supremacy, His finished redemptive work, and His certain return to judge the living and dead and establish the new creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John received this revelation circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, exiled on Patmos for his testimony. The seven churches of Asia Minor faced increasing pressure to participate in emperor worship and pagan religious practices. Refusal meant economic hardship, social ostracism, and potential martyrdom. Understanding this context illuminates Revelation's encouragement to faithful endurance.

The apocalyptic genre was familiar to first-century Jewish and Christian readers. Rather than newspaper-style predictions, apocalyptic literature uses symbolic imagery to reveal spiritual realities behind earthly events, encourage the faithful, warn the unfaithful, and assert God's ultimate sovereignty over history. Parallels with Daniel, Ezekiel, and intertestamental apocalyptic writings would help original readers decode the symbols.

Rome's imperial cult demanded worship of Caesar as divine, placing Christians in impossible situations—compromise their faith or face persecution. Revelation identifies Rome as "Babylon" and assures believers that despite appearances, the Lamb conquered through His death and resurrection, and all earthly kingdoms will submit to His reign.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Revelation 2:15 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
  2. What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
  3. How does this passage point to Christ's victory and the hope of new creation, and how should that shape your present priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
οὕτως1 of 11

“So”

G3779

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

ἔχεις2 of 11

“hast”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

καὶ3 of 11

“also”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

σὺ4 of 11

“thou”

G4771

thou

κρατοῦντας5 of 11

“them that hold”

G2902

to use strength, i.e., seize or retain (literally or figuratively)

τὴν6 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

διδαχὴν7 of 11

“the doctrine”

G1322

instruction (the act or the matter)

τῶν8 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Νικολαϊτῶν9 of 11

“of the Nicolaitans”

G3531

a nicolate, i.e., adherent of nicolas

ὅ10 of 11

“which thing”

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

μισῶ11 of 11

“I hate”

G3404

to detest (especially to persecute); by extension, to love less

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Revelation. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Revelation 2:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Revelation 2:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 2:6

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