King James Version

What Does Revelation 2:6 Mean?

Revelation 2:6 in the King James Version says “But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. — study this verse from Revelation chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

Revelation 2:6 · KJV


Context

4

Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

5

Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

6

But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

7

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 tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

8

And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Christ's hatred of Nicolaitan deeds reveals His holy intolerance of antinomianism—the false teaching that grace permits sinful license. Early church fathers (Irenaeus, Hippolytus) identify Nicolaitans with libertine practices mixing Christianity with pagan immorality. Reformed theology affirms that genuine faith produces sanctification; mere profession without transformation indicates false conversion. Christ's 'hatred' (Greek 'miseis') demonstrates that true love for God includes hatred of evil—not the sinner, but the sin that enslaves.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The Nicolaitan heresy likely advocated compromise with pagan practices to avoid persecution, including eating idol-meat and sexual immorality (Rev 2:14-15). In trade-guild dominated Ephesus, economic pressure tempted believers to participate in pagan feasts. The church's resistance pleased Christ, though other congregations tolerated this teaching.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Christ's example of 'hating' false deeds while loving His church inform your response to error within Christian communities?
  2. What modern compromises with cultural sin might parallel the Nicolaitan teaching of blending faith with worldly practices?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἀλλὰ1 of 12

But

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

τοῦτο2 of 12

this

G5124

that thing

ἔχεις3 of 12

thou hast

G2192

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

ὅτι4 of 12

that

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

μισῶ5 of 12

hate

G3404

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

τὰ6 of 12
G3588

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

ἔργα7 of 12

the deeds

G2041

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

τῶν8 of 12
G3588

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

Νικολαϊτῶν9 of 12

of the Nicolaitans

G3531

a nicolate, i.e., adherent of nicolas

10 of 12

which

G3739

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

κἀγὼ11 of 12

I also

G2504

so also the dative case ????? <pronunciation strongs="kam-oy'"/>, and accusative case ???? <pronunciation strongs="kam-eh'"/> and (or also, even, etc.

μισῶ12 of 12

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 2:6 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 2:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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