Nicola'us is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts. He is noted as one of the seven men chosen to serve in the early church in Jerusalem, a group often referred to as the first deacons. The selection of these men is described in Acts 6:1-6, where the apostles sought to address a dispute between the Hellenistic Jews and the Hebraic Jews regarding the daily distribution of food to widows. To ensure fair treatment and to allow the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word, seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and wisdom, were appointed for this task.

Nicola'us is identified as a proselyte from Antioch, indicating that he was a Gentile convert to Judaism before becoming a follower of Christ. His inclusion among the seven deacons highlights the early church's commitment to diversity and the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers within the body of Christ. Acts 6:5 states: "This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicola'us from Antioch, a convert to Judaism."

The mention of Nicola'us as a proselyte underscores the expanding reach of the Gospel beyond the Jewish community, reflecting the fulfillment of Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). Antioch, his place of origin, would later become a significant center for early Christianity and the location where believers were first called "Christians" (Acts 11:26).

While Nicola'us is not mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament, his legacy is sometimes associated with the Nicolaitans, a group condemned in the Book of Revelation for their heretical practices and teachings. Revelation 2:6 records Jesus' words to the church in Ephesus: "But you have this to your credit: You hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate." Similarly, Revelation 2:15 warns the church in Pergamum: "In the same way, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans."

The connection between Nicola'us and the Nicolaitans is speculative and not explicitly stated in Scripture. Some early church fathers, such as Irenaeus and Hippolytus, suggested that the Nicolaitans were followers of Nicola'us, who allegedly deviated from orthodox teachings. However, this association is debated among scholars, and there is no definitive evidence linking Nicola'us the deacon with the Nicolaitans of Revelation.

In summary, Nicola'us is remembered as a faithful servant in the early church, chosen to help maintain unity and care for the needs of the community. His account reflects the inclusive nature of the Gospel and the early church's efforts to embody the teachings of Christ in practical ways.Nicola'us (1 Occurrence)

Acts 6:5
And the thing was pleasing before all the multitude, and they did choose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch,
(See RSV)

Nicola'us (1 Occurrence)
Nicola'us. Nicolaus, Nicola'us. Nicopolis . Multi-Version Concordance
Nicola'us (1 Occurrence). Acts 6:5 And the thing was pleasing ...
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Nicopolis (1 Occurrence)

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Nicolaus (1 Occurrence)

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