https://www.facebook.com/groups/muchgrace/
(Revelation 2:6) "(Jesus speaking) “...you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.”
The trouble caused by the Nicolaitans within the body of Christ truly caught my attention. Seeing how easily the Church (including us) can be deceived made me realise that the term doesn't mean a people. Instead, it symbolises a force or influence that leads us toward destructive tendencies such as temptation, self-doubt, fear, pride, ego, greed, materialism, anger, bitterness, complacency, and isolation.
In my research, I saw that the Greek word for Nicolaitans can be broken down into two components:
(1) Niko-: Derived from 'nikos, meaning 'victory' or 'conquer.'
(2) -laitans: From 'laos,' meaning 'people.' Or as it’s more commonly known today, laity NB - The term laity refers to all the regular members (or followers of Jesus) within the Church.
Putting it all together, the term Nicolaitans can therefore be interpreted as: Conquerors/ Victors over the people of the Church!
The Lord wants this next series to see just what keeps knocking us down so easily, (Hebrews 12:1) the "sin that so easily besets us", and how we should come out from under the enslavement of it.
Before we start, let's hold in our hearts the powerful testimonies of how Jesus has freed our brothers and sisters from these destructive tendencies. Much like cancer, these tendencies are not benign; they become malignant, intertwining and forming complex challenges. For example, temptation can lead to greed and materialism, pride can foster isolation and complacency, and self-doubt and fear can amplify anger and bitterness, hindering our ability to connect with others and seek help.
In fact, the intricacy of these tendencies can be so complex that ONLY by turning to Jesus can we even begin to recognise how they interrelate, either in ourselves or in others!
As such, the first part of this series primarily accedes the FACT that only Jesus can truly help us address these negative tendencies comprehensively. Because only He 'Who IS the Victor over all' has triumphed over sin, death, and all spiritual adversities through His death and resurrection. So, whatever struggles you're facing right now, rest assured that His victory affirms your potential to overcome ALL life's challenges. By turning wholly to Him and having faith in His gracious plan for your life, you will find hope and strength amid adversity.
+++
Let us pray, "Heavenly Father, I am asking for Your help to get out of the mess I keep getting myself into. I know that some of this is my own doing, and some may be from stupid choices or even circumstances beyond my control. I am asking for Your wisdom to make better choices, Your grace to forgive myself for my past mistakes, and Your strength to navigate the challenges I am facing. Please place good, kind people on my path who can help and guide me. Help me to see the way forward and give me the courage to walk it, so that I can find peace and a better way." Amen!
+++
URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS (Please keep checking as more are being added almost daily)