1 John 3:12

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.

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}.

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.

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.

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.

In 1 John 3:12, the Apostle John presents a stark and sobering example of unrighteousness by directly referencing the biblical account of Cain and Abel. This verse serves as a powerful warning against hatred and envy, contrasting the destructive nature of evil works with the righteousness that characterizes true believers.

Context

This verse is situated within a crucial section of 1 John where the apostle distinguishes between the "children of God" and the "children of the devil." Following the declaration in 1 John 3:11 that believers "should love one another," John immediately provides Cain as the negative antithesis. Cain's act of fratricide, detailed in Genesis 4, is presented not merely as a historical event but as a timeless illustration of the spiritual nature of sin and hatred, originating from "that wicked one."

Key Themes

  • The Nature of Evil Works: Cain's actions were driven by envy and a rejection of God's favor upon Abel's righteous offering (Genesis 4:4-5). John emphasizes that Cain's murder was a direct consequence of his "evil works" and his brother's "righteous" ones, highlighting the spiritual conflict between light and darkness.
  • Spiritual Lineage: The phrase "was of that wicked one" (referring to the devil) is critical. It indicates that Cain's actions were not merely a human failing but stemmed from an allegiance, conscious or unconscious, to the realm of darkness and sin. This reinforces John's teaching that one's actions reveal their true spiritual parentage (1 John 3:10).
  • Hatred as the Root of Murder: John implicitly connects hatred with murder. While Cain physically slew his brother, the underlying motive was deep-seated envy and hatred of Abel's righteousness. This aligns with Jesus' teaching that even anger and hatred in the heart are akin to murder in God's eyes (Matthew 5:21-22).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase "τοῦ πονηροῦ" (tou ponērou), translated as "that wicked one," directly refers to the devil, emphasizing the demonic origin or influence behind such profound evil. The word "works" (ἔργα - erga) signifies actions that are outward manifestations of an inward disposition, revealing the true character and spiritual alignment of an individual.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a sober reminder for believers to examine their own hearts. It challenges us to confront any envy, jealousy, or hatred we might harbor, particularly towards those who walk in righteousness or receive God's favor. The call to love one another is not merely an emotional sentiment but a practical command that stands in direct opposition to the spirit of Cain. Our actions, whether good or evil, demonstrate whose spiritual family we belong to. Therefore, cultivating love, righteousness, and humility becomes paramount in reflecting our true identity as children of God.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 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.
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