(1) The Rulers of the Synagogue.
We read in several places in the New Testament of those men who are referred to as "the rulers of the synagogue". These were apparently "laymen" and came next in rank to the Scribes - the exponents of the Law. We see at least two of their offices from the pages of the New Testament; (1) to keep order within the synagogue precincts. This is evidenced by "the ruler of the synagogue" who "rebuked" Jesus for healing a man in the synagogue on the Sabbath Day. (Luke chapter 13 verses 12 to 14). (2) To arrange the order of service and to appoint the speakers and readers for the day's worship. This is seen in Acts chapter 13 verse 15, where the Apostle Paul speaks at the request of "the rulers of the synagogue".
(2) The "Naughty" Figs.
In chapter 24 of his prophecy, the prophet Jeremiah sets a parable before us concerning "two baskets of figs". One basket contained "very good figs", but the second was a basket of "very naughty figs". In our own day, the adjective "naughty" is usually associated with a misbehaving child, etc., but in the 17th century, when our Authorised Version of the Bible was translated, it had a much different usage. At that time the word was reserved for those people who were considered to be "good for naught" i.e. good for nothing. And it's in this way that we are to understand Jeremiah's parable. The Lord was going to lead many of His people into "captivity" in the land of Babylon. But, contrary to a lot of common opinion, these captives would, in fact, be the "good figs", for God would work with this captive band and out of it bring His "remnant according to the election of grace". It was those who were being left "safely" at home in Israel that were really the "good for naught" figs - the "naughty figs" which God had given over to their own ways.
(3) The Nicolaitans.
The Church at Ephesus, in Revelation chapter 2 verse 6, was said to hate "the deeds of the Nicolaitans", and for this, that Church was commended. The Nicolaitans are thought to have originated through the influence of Nicolas of Antioch (Acts chapter 6 verse 5), from whom they took their name. The Nicolaitans endeavoured to work out a form of compromise between the Church and the pagan society in which the Church was situated so that the believers wouldn't feel "over-embarrassed". There may also be a reference to the deeds of Balaam who corrupted Israel in the O.T. (Numbers chapter 22).
(This is the end of this present series).
This Page Title – Who Were They?The Wicket Gate Magazine "A Continuing Witness". Internet Edition number 50 – placed on line September 2004 Magazine web address – www.wicketgate.co.uk |