How can we apply the lesson of discernment from Revelation 2:6 today? Setting the Scene Revelation 2 opens with personal letters from Jesus to seven real first-century churches. To the believers in Ephesus He says: “But you have this to your credit: You hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate” (Revelation 2:6). The Lord applauds their discernment—recognizing and rejecting false, corrupting influences. The Commendation in Revelation 2:6 • Jesus affirms that certain behavior and teaching are so destructive He Himself “hates” them. • The Ephesian church is praised for sharing His holy intolerance toward error while still being called to return to first love (2:4). • “Nicolaitans” likely promoted moral compromise with the pagan culture—licentiousness cloaked as Christian freedom. Lesson: Discernment involves identifying doctrine or practice that clashes with Scripture and refusing to accommodate it. Why Discernment Matters • Truth protects hearts (Proverbs 4:23); error erodes holiness (2 Peter 2:1–3). • God commands testing everything: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). • A love-filled church can still drift if it tolerates unbiblical ideas (Galatians 1:6–9). Practical Ways to Cultivate Discernment Today 1. Soak in Scripture – Daily reading anchors convictions (Psalm 119:105). – Memorize key passages that define core doctrines (e.g., John 1:1–14; Romans 3:21–26). 2. Examine Every Teaching – Follow the Berean pattern: “examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true” (Acts 17:11). – Compare sermons, books, podcasts, and social media claims with the whole counsel of God. 3. Watch for Moral Drift – False teaching often justifies sin (Jude 4). Ask: Does this viewpoint weaken calls to holiness? 4. Value Sound Doctrine – Guard against “itching ears” preferences (2 Timothy 4:3–4). Seek teachers who open the Bible, not merely affirm feelings. 5. Cultivate Spirit-Led Insight – Pray for “knowledge and every kind of discernment” (Philippians 1:9–10). The Spirit glorifies Christ by guiding into all truth (John 16:13–14). 6. Stay Connected to the Body – Submitting to biblically qualified elders offers protection (Hebrews 13:17). – Practice mutual exhortation—“speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). 7. Keep Love and Hate in Balance – “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good” (Romans 12:9). – Discernment never excuses harshness; it channels zeal toward rescue and restoration (James 5:19–20). Guardrails Against Modern “Nicolaitan” Influences • Ideologies that blur moral boundaries—sexual ethics redefined, greed baptized as blessing, relativism cloaked as tolerance. • Movements that diminish Christ’s exclusivity—universalism, syncretism, or any gospel that sidesteps the cross. • Teachings that detach grace from obedience—“sin that grace may abound” (Romans 6:1–2). Walking in Truth and Love Discernment is not suspicion of everything; it is clear-eyed loyalty to the Lord who gave His Word. By clinging to Scripture, testing every voice, and hating only what Christ hates, believers today can mirror the commendation of Revelation 2:6—standing firm against deception while shining with uncompromised love. |
    |