Topical Encyclopedia Nicolaus is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts. He is identified 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 recorded in Acts 6:5, which states: "This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a convert to Judaism from Antioch."Background and Role Nicolaus is described as a proselyte from Antioch, indicating that he was a Gentile who had converted to Judaism before becoming a follower of Christ. His inclusion among the seven deacons highlights the early church's commitment to diversity and the inclusion of Gentile believers. The role of these seven men was to assist the apostles by overseeing the daily distribution of food, ensuring that the needs of the Hellenistic Jewish widows were met, and allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word. Theological Significance The appointment of Nicolaus and the other six men is significant in the context of the early church's development. It reflects the growing complexity of the Christian community and the need for organized leadership to address practical concerns. This event also underscores the church's dedication to unity and equality, as the selection of deacons was a response to complaints of neglect from the Hellenistic Jews, ensuring fair treatment for all members. Nicolaus and the Nicolaitans There is a historical and theological debate regarding Nicolaus's possible connection to the Nicolaitans, a group mentioned in the Book of Revelation. Revelation 2:6 and 2:15 refer to the Nicolaitans, whose practices and teachings were condemned by Christ. Some early church fathers, such as Irenaeus and Hippolytus, suggested that the Nicolaitans were followers of Nicolaus, who allegedly deviated from orthodox teachings. However, this connection is speculative and not explicitly supported by the biblical text. The Nicolaitans are criticized for promoting idolatry and immorality, but the exact nature of their doctrine remains unclear. Legacy Nicolaus's legacy in the early church is primarily associated with his role as one of the first deacons, a position that set a precedent for church leadership and service. His selection as a proselyte from Antioch highlights the inclusive nature of the early Christian movement, which embraced believers from diverse backgrounds. While the association with the Nicolaitans remains a topic of historical inquiry, Nicolaus's contribution to the early church is recognized as part of the foundational efforts to maintain unity and address the needs of the growing Christian community. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia NICOLAUS; NICOLASnik-o-la'-us (English Versions of the Bible), nik'-o-las (Nikolaos): One of "the seven" chosen to have the oversight of "the daily ministration" to the poor of the church in Jerusalem (Acts 6:5). He is called "a proselyte of Antioch"; the other 6 were therefore probably Jews by birth. This is the first recorded case of the admission of a proselyte into office in the Christian church. Some of the church Fathers (Irenaeus, Hippolytus, Pseudo-Tertullian) state that he was the founder of the sect called NICOLAITANS (which see) (Revelation 2:15). Other Fathers seem to suggest that this was a vain claim made by this sect in seeking apostolic authority for their opinions. It may be that the opinions of this sect were an antinomian exaggeration of the preaching of Nicolaus. Greek 3532. Nikolaos -- Nicolaus, a Christian, probably not connected ... ... 3531, 3532. Nikolaos. 3533 . Nicolaus, a Christian, probably not connected with the sect bearing the same name. Part of Speech: Noun ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3532.htm - 6k 3531. Nikolaites -- a Nicolaitan, a follower of Nicolaus Library Nicolaus and the Sect Named after Him. Antipater's Navigation from Rome to his Father; and How He was ... Concerning the Revolt of the Trachonites; How Sylleus Accused ... Archelaus Goes to Rome with a Great Number of his Kindred. He is ... The Melchisedecians; the Nicolaitans. How Eurycles Falsely Accused Herod's Sons; and How their Father ... Dedicatory Letter. Earliest Heretics: How, Upon Herod's Going Down into David's Sepulcher, the Sedition ... How the Kings of Asia Honored the Nation of the Jews and Made them ... Thesaurus Nicolaus (1 Occurrence)... Standard Bible Encyclopedia NICOLAUS; NICOLAS. ... It may be that the opinions of this sect were an antinomian exaggeration of the preaching of Nicolaus. SF Hunter. ... /n/nicolaus.htm - 7k Nicolas (1 Occurrence) Cyrus (20 Occurrences) Nicola'us (1 Occurrence) Timon (1 Occurrence) Nicolaitans (2 Occurrences) Nica'nor (1 Occurrence) Judaism (5 Occurrences) Group (32 Occurrences) Ti'mon (1 Occurrence) Resources Who was Prochorus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Nicolaus (1 Occurrence)Acts 6:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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