Who were the Nicolaitans in Revelation 2?

Chuck Smith, Answers for Today, chapter 7: “But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate.” The word “Nicolaitanes” in the Greek actually speaks of the establishment of a spiritual hierarchy. Nikao: to establish a priesthood over, to conquer. Laos: the laity. The “deeds of the Nicolaitanes” was the establishment of the priesthood over the laity. Establishing shepherds or elders who lord over the flock of God and make you responsible to them—who seek to take the spiritual responsibility for your actions by telling you what you can and can’t do, when you can or can’t do it, and have you come to them for guidance and direction—is, in reality, the doctrine of Nicolaitanes. In essence, these shepherds are saying, “You can’t go to God for directions. You’re not mature enough. You come to me, and I’ll tell you what God says.” And that is inserting someone between man and God. From Chuck Smith's books, used by permission of The Word For Today.

Verified. Every scripture quotation on this page has been checked word-for-word against the King James text. Last reviewed 2026-10-16.