1 John 3:12

KJV

Not as Cain, [who] was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous.

KJV (with Strong's)

Not {G3756} as {G2531} Cain {G2535}, who was {G2258} of {G1537} that wicked one {G4190}, and {G2532} slew {G4969} his {G846} brother {G80}. And {G2532} wherefore {G5484}{G5101} slew {G4969} he him {G846}? Because {G3754} his own {G846} works {G2041} were {G2258} evil {G4190}, and {G1161} his {G846} brother's {G80} righteous {G1342}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and not be like Kayin, who was from the Evil One and murdered his own brother. Why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil, and his brother’s were righteous.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did Cain slay him? Because his own deeds were evil, while those of his brother were righteous.

American Standard Version

not as Cain was of the evil one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First John 3:12 presents the stark example of Cain's murder of Abel as a powerful illustration of the antithesis between the children of God and the children of the devil. John uses this ancient narrative to underscore the destructive nature of hatred and envy, revealing that such evil actions stem from an allegiance to "that wicked one" and stand in direct opposition to the righteous love that characterizes true believers. The verse serves as a sober warning, linking internal malice with outward violence, and contrasting the unacceptable "evil works" of Cain with the divinely approved "righteous" deeds of Abel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a pivotal section of 1 John (1 John 3:10-18) where the Apostle John sharply distinguishes between those who belong to God and those who belong to the devil. Following the foundational assertion in [1 John 3:10](/1_john/3-10 "1 John 3:10 - Distinguishing Children of God and Children of the Devil") that "whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother," John immediately provides Cain as the quintessential negative example. The preceding verse, [1 John 3:11](/1_john/3-11 "1 John 3:11 - The Command to Love One Another"), explicitly states, "For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another." Cain's fratricide is thus presented as the ultimate violation of this core commandment, serving as a chilling antithesis to the love that should define God's children. It highlights that hatred, even when unexpressed in violence, is fundamentally antithetical to the divine nature and spiritual lineage of a believer.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The story of Cain and Abel, found in [Genesis 4](/genesis/4 "Genesis 4 - Cain and Abel"), was a foundational narrative within Jewish tradition, deeply familiar to John's original audience. It represented the first act of murder in human history, born out of jealousy and a rejection of God's favor. For the early Christian communities, who often faced internal strife and external persecution, the warning against hatred and division was particularly pertinent. The cultural context of the Roman Empire, with its emphasis on honor and shame, and the prevalence of various philosophical and religious systems, meant that John's clear distinction between "children of God" and "children of the devil" provided a stark moral and spiritual framework. The concept of "works" (actions) as indicators of one's true character and allegiance was also a widely understood principle, both in Jewish thought and the broader Greco-Roman world, making Cain's "evil works" a universally recognizable symbol of depravity.
* **Key Themes:** The verse significantly contributes to several key themes in 1 John. Firstly, it elaborates on the theme of **Spiritual Lineage and Affiliation**, emphasizing that one's actions, particularly their capacity for love or hatred, reveal their true spiritual parentage. Cain's being "of that wicked one" ([1 John 3:12](/1_john/3-12 "1 John 3:12 - Cain's Example")) underscores that profound evil is not merely a human failing but has a demonic origin or influence, echoing Jesus' words about the devil being a murderer from the beginning in [John 8:44](/john/8-44 "John 8:44 - The Devil as a Murderer"). Secondly, it develops the theme of **Love as the Defining Mark of Discipleship** by presenting hatred as its antithesis. The murder of Abel, fueled by envy over Abel's righteous offering ([Genesis 4:4-5](/genesis/4-4-5 "Genesis 4:4-5 - Abel's Accepted Offering and Cain's Rejection")), demonstrates how hatred, left unchecked, culminates in destructive actions. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount that anger and hatred in the heart are tantamount to murder in God's eyes ([Matthew 5:21-22](/matthew/5-21-22 "Matthew 5:21-22 - Jesus' Teaching on Anger and Murder")). Finally, the verse reinforces the theme of **Righteousness vs. Wickedness**, highlighting that "works" are not just external acts but manifestations of an internal spiritual state, revealing whether one walks in light or darkness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **wicked one (Greek, _ponērós'_):** From a derivative of πόνος, meaning "hurtful" or "evil." In this context, it refers to the devil, emphasizing the malevolent, destructive influence behind Cain's actions. It denotes evil not just in character but in its harmful effect and influence, contrasting with inherent character (κακός). Cain's being "of that wicked one" signifies a spiritual alignment with the forces of darkness, whose very nature is to cause harm and destruction.
* **works (Greek, _érgon'_):** From a primary (but obsolete) verb meaning "to work," referring to toil, effort, or occupation. By implication, it signifies an act or deed. Here, "works" are the outward manifestations of an inward disposition, revealing the true spiritual alignment of an individual. Cain's "evil works" were the visible fruit of his inner malevolence, while Abel's "righteous" works were the expression of his faith and obedience.
* **righteous (Greek, _díkaios'_):** From δίκη, meaning "equitable in character or act." By implication, it means innocent or holy, either absolutely or relatively. Abel's works were "righteous" because they were in accordance with God's will and acceptable to Him, contrasting sharply with Cain's unacceptable actions and revealing God's favor upon Abel's obedient heart.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Not as Cain":** This phrase immediately introduces a negative paradigm, setting Cain up as the antithesis to the love and righteousness that should characterize believers. It warns against imitating his example.
* **"who was of that wicked one":** This clause reveals the spiritual origin of Cain's malevolence. His actions were not merely human failings but stemmed from a spiritual allegiance to Satan, the "wicked one," demonstrating the devil's influence in generating hatred and violence.
* **"and slew his brother":** This is the direct, violent consequence of Cain's wicked nature and spiritual alignment. It highlights the ultimate, devastating outcome of unchecked hatred and envy.
* **"And wherefore slew he him?":** This rhetorical question draws the reader's attention to the underlying motive, prompting a deeper reflection on the spiritual roots of such an atrocious act. It implies that the reason is crucial for understanding the nature of evil.
* **"Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous":** This provides the explicit answer to the rhetorical question, pinpointing the core reason for the murder. Cain's evil deeds and disposition clashed with Abel's righteous character and actions, leading to a murderous envy fueled by spiritual darkness.

#### Literary Devices
John employs several potent literary devices in this verse. **Antithesis** is central, contrasting Cain with Abel, evil works with righteous works, and implicitly, the "children of the devil" with the "children of God." This stark opposition highlights the fundamental difference between those who walk in darkness and those who walk in light. The phrase "Not as Cain" serves as an **Exemplum**, using a well-known biblical figure as a cautionary tale to illustrate the dangers of hatred and unrighteousness. Furthermore, the **Rhetorical Question**, "And wherefore slew he him?", engages the reader directly, prompting them to consider the profound spiritual reasons behind Cain's actions rather than merely focusing on the physical act of murder. This device emphasizes the moral and theological implications of the narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The theological significance of 1 John 3:12 lies in its profound articulation of the spiritual conflict between light and darkness, love and hatred, and righteousness and sin. It asserts that actions are not merely external behaviors but are deeply indicative of one's spiritual allegiance. Cain's act of fratricide, driven by envy of Abel's divinely accepted righteousness, becomes a timeless archetype of the world's hatred for those who walk in God's truth. This verse underscores the New Testament emphasis that hatred in the heart is equivalent to murder in God's sight, revealing the spiritual root of violence and discord. It calls believers to a radical self-examination, urging them to cultivate genuine love as the defining mark of their new spiritual birth, a love that stands in stark contrast to the destructive spirit of "that wicked one."

* [Genesis 4:3-8](/genesis/4-3-8 "Genesis 4:3-8 - The Account of Cain and Abel")
* [Matthew 5:21-22](/matthew/5-21-22 "Matthew 5:21-22 - Jesus on Anger and Murder")
* [John 8:44](/john/8-44 "John 8:44 - The Devil as a Murderer and Liar")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First John 3:12 serves as a profound mirror, inviting us to look deeply into the hidden corners of our own hearts. It challenges the common misconception that sin is only about outward actions, revealing that the seeds of hatred, envy, and malice, if left unchecked, can lead to spiritual death and destructive behavior, mirroring Cain's tragic path. The verse compels us to confront any resentment or animosity we might harbor, especially towards those who seem to be more favored or righteous in God's eyes. Our spiritual lineage is not merely a theological concept but a lived reality, demonstrated by our capacity to love our brothers and sisters in Christ. To be "of God" means to actively pursue righteousness and to embody the self-sacrificial love that defines Christ. Therefore, cultivating a heart free from envy, quick to forgive, and eager to uplift others becomes a vital expression of our identity as children of God, standing in direct opposition to the spirit of Cain.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be harboring subtle forms of envy or resentment towards others, particularly those who seem to be blessed or more spiritually mature?**
* **How do my "works"—my actions, attitudes, and words—reflect my true spiritual parentage, either as a child of God or, God forbid, exhibiting traits "of that wicked one"?**
* **What practical steps can I take today to actively cultivate a heart of genuine love and affirmation for others, especially those with whom I might struggle to connect?**

### FAQ

**What does "was of that wicked one" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "was of that wicked one" (Greek: *ek tou ponērou*) means that Cain's actions and character were derived from, or belonged to, the devil. It signifies a spiritual origin or allegiance. John is not suggesting that Cain was literally the devil's son, but rather that his nature and deeds were aligned with the devil's malevolent character and purposes. The devil is characterized as a murderer and a liar from the beginning ([John 8:44](/john/8-44 "John 8:44 - The Devil as a Murderer and Liar")), and Cain's act of fratricide perfectly embodies this destructive, anti-God spirit. This highlights that unrighteousness and hatred are not merely human flaws but are rooted in a spiritual opposition to God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The shadow of Cain's hatred and murder in [1 John 3:12](/1_john/3-12 "1 John 3:12 - Cain's Example") finds its ultimate antithesis and fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Cain's evil works led to the slaying of his righteous brother, driven by envy and a rejection of God's favor. In stark contrast, Jesus, the perfectly righteous Son of God, willingly laid down His life for His unrighteous "brothers" and "sisters," motivated by perfect love ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")). While Cain's act brought death and condemnation, Christ's sacrifice brings life and justification to all who believe. The world's hatred, exemplified by Cain, ultimately culminated in the crucifixion of the Son of God ([John 15:18-20](/john/15-18-20 "John 15:18-20 - The World's Hatred of Believers")). Yet, through His death and resurrection, Christ conquered "that wicked one" ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Christ's Victory Over Death and the Devil")) and established a new spiritual lineage, enabling believers to become children of God through faith in Him ([John 1:12](/john/1-12 "John 1:12 - Becoming Children of God")). Thus, the call to love one another in [1 John 3:11](/1_john/3-11 "1 John 3:11 - The Command to Love One Another") is not merely a moral imperative but a Christ-centered command, empowering us to reflect His self-giving love rather than succumbing to the destructive hatred of Cain.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 11:4

¶ By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

Genesis 4:4

And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering:

Genesis 4:15

And the LORD said unto him, Therefore whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold. And the LORD set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.

Proverbs 29:27

¶ An unjust man [is] an abomination to the just: and [he that is] upright in the way [is] abomination to the wicked.

Genesis 4:25

¶ And Adam knew his wife again; and she bare a son, and called his name Seth: For God, [said she], hath appointed me another seed instead of Abel, whom Cain slew.

Jude 1:11

Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.

Luke 11:51

From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.