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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 John 3:12 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.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_john/3-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/62_1Jn_03_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 John 3:12 - Love One Another" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did Cain slay him? 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And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother&#8217s were righteous. <a href="/nlt/1_john/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> We must not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and killed his brother. And why did he kill him? Because Cain had been doing what was evil, and his brother had been doing what was righteous. <a href="/esv/1_john/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous. <a href="/bsb/1_john/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/blb/1_john/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> not as Cain, who was of the evil one and slew his brother. And why did he slay him? Because his works were evil, but those of his brother, righteous. <a href="/kjv/1_john/3.htm">King James Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nkjv/1_john/3.htm">New King James Version</a> not as Cain who was of the wicked one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother’s righteous. <a href="/nasb_/1_john/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> not as Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And for what reason did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil, but his brother’s were righteous. <a href="/nasb/1_john/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> not as Cain, who was of the evil one and slew his brother. And for what reason did he slay him? Because his deeds were evil, and his brother&#8217s were righteous. <a href="/nasb77/1_john/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> not as Cain, who was of the evil one, and slew his brother. And for what reason did he slay him? Because his deeds were evil, and his brother’s were righteous. <a href="/lsb/1_john/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> not as Cain, who was of the evil one and slew his brother. And for what reason did he slay him? Because his deeds were evil, and his brother’s were righteous. <a href="/amp/1_john/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> and not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother [Abel]. And why did he murder him? Because Cain’s deeds were evil, and his brother’s were righteous. <a href="/csb/1_john/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> unlike Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his deeds were evil, and his brother’s were righteous. <a href="/hcsb/1_john/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> unlike Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil, and his brother&#8217s were righteous. <a href="/asv/1_john/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> 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. <a href="/cev/1_john/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Don't be like Cain, who belonged to the devil and murdered his own brother. Why did he murder him? He did it because his brother was good, and he was evil. <a href="/erv/1_john/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> 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. <a href="/gwt/1_john/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Don't be like Cain. He was a child of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did Cain murder his brother? Because the things Cain did were evil and the things his brother did had God's approval. <a href="/gnt/1_john/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> We must not be like Cain; he belonged to the Evil One and murdered his own brother Abel. Why did Cain murder him? Because the things he himself did were wrong, and the things his brother did were right. <a href="/isv/1_john/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> Do not be like Cain, who was from the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because what he was doing was evil and his brother's actions were righteous. <a href="/msb/1_john/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/net/1_john/3.htm">NET Bible</a> not like Cain who was of the evil one and brutally murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his deeds were evil, but his brother's were righteous. <a href="/nheb/1_john/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> unlike Cain, who was of the evil one, and killed his brother. Why did he kill him? Because his works were evil, and his brother's righteous. <a href="/wbt/1_john/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And why did he slay him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. <a href="/wey/1_john/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> We are not to resemble Cain, who was a child of the Evil one and killed his own brother. And why did he kill him? Because his own actions were wicked and his brother's actions righteous. <a href="/web/1_john/3.htm">World English Bible</a> unlike Cain, who was of the evil one and killed his brother. Why did he kill him? Because his deeds were evil, and his brother’s righteous. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_john/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> not as Cain—he was of the evil one, and he slew his brother. And for [what] reason did he slay him? Because his works were evil, and those of his brother [were] righteous. <a href="/blb/1_john/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> not as Cain, who was of the evil one and slew his brother. And why did he slay him? Because his works were evil, but those of his brother, righteous. <a href="/ylt/1_john/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> not as Cain -- of the evil one he was, and he did slay his brother, and wherefore did he slay him? because his works were evil, and those of his brother righteous. <a href="/slt/1_john/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Not as Cain was of the evil one, and slew his brother. And for what slew he him? Because his works were evil, and those of his brother just.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_john/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Not as Cain, who was of the wicked one, and killed his brother. And wherefore did he kill him? Because his own works were wicked: and his brother's just. <a href="/cpdv/1_john/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Do not be like Cain, who was of the evil one, and who killed his brother. And why did he kill him? Because his own works were wicked, but his brother’s works were just. <a href="/nabre/1_john/3.htm">New American Bible</a> unlike Cain who belonged to the evil one and slaughtered his brother. Why did he slaughter him? Because his own works were evil, and those of his brother righteous. <a href="/nrsvce/1_john/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> We must not be like Cain who was from the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_john/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Not as Cain, who belonged to the wicked one and slew his brother. And why did he kill him? Because his own works were evil, and those of his brother were righteous. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_john/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Not like Cain who was from The Evil One and murdered his brother; and why did he murder him? Only because his works were evil and those of his brother were righteous.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_john/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Not as Cain, who was of the wicked one, and slew his brother: and for what reason did he slay him? because his own works were evil, and his brother's, righteous. <a href="/godbey/1_john/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> not as Cain was of the evil one, and slew his brother; and on account of what did he slay him? Because his own works were evil, and those of his brother righteous. <a href="/haweis/1_john/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Not as Cain, who was of the wicked one, and slew his brother: and wherefore did he slay him? Because his own works were wicked, and those of his brother righteous.<CM> <a href="/mace/1_john/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> not acting like Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother: but why did he slay him? because his own actions were evil, and his brother's were virtuous. <a href="/wey/1_john/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> We are not to resemble Cain, who was a child of the Evil one and killed his own brother. And why did he kill him? Because his own actions were wicked and his brother's actions righteous. <a href="/worrell/1_john/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> not as Cain who was of the evil one, and slew his brother. And wherefore did he slay him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. <a href="/worsley/1_john/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> and why did he slay him? because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. <a href="/parallel/1_john/3-12.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rlZ5ywDtQGE?start=541" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_john/3.htm">Love One Another</a> 11This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another. 12<a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">Do not be</a> <a href="/greek/2531.htm" title="2531: kathōs (Adv) -- According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that.">like</a> <a href="/greek/2535.htm" title="2535: Kain (N-NMS) -- (Hebrew), Cain, son of Adam and Eve and brother of Abel. Of Hebrew origin; Cain, the son of Adam.">Cain,</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ēn (V-IIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">who belonged to</a> <a href="/greek/1537.htm" title="1537: ek (Prep) -- From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/4190.htm" title="4190: ponērou (Adj-GMS) -- Evil, bad, wicked, malicious, slothful. ">evil one</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4969.htm" title="4969: esphaxen (V-AIA-3S) -- To slay, kill by violence, slaughter, wound mortally. A primary verb; to butcher or to slaughter, or, to maim.">murdered</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">his</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/80.htm" title="80: adelphon (N-AMS) -- A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote.">brother.</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">And</a> <a href="/greek/5484.htm" title="5484: charin (Prep) -- Accusative case of charis as preposition; through favor of, i.e. On account of.">why</a> <a href="/greek/5101.htm" title="5101: tinos (IPro-GNS) -- Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what."></a> <a href="/greek/4969.htm" title="4969: esphaxen (V-AIA-3S) -- To slay, kill by violence, slaughter, wound mortally. A primary verb; to butcher or to slaughter, or, to maim.">did Cain slay</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">him?</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">Because</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">his</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-NNP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">own</a> <a href="/greek/2041.htm" title="2041: erga (N-NNP) -- From a primary ergo; toil; by implication, an act.">deeds</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ēn (V-IIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">were</a> <a href="/greek/4190.htm" title="4190: ponēra (Adj-NNP) -- Evil, bad, wicked, malicious, slothful. ">evil,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">while</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-NNP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">those</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">his</a> <a href="/greek/80.htm" title="80: adelphou (N-GMS) -- A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote.">brother</a> <a href="/greek/1342.htm" title="1342: dikaia (Adj-NNP) -- From dike; equitable; by implication, innocent, holy.">were righteous.</a> 13So do not be surprised, brothers, if the world hates you.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/genesis/4-3.htm">Genesis 4:3-8</a> So in the course of time, Cain brought some of the fruit of the soil as an offering to the LORD, / while Abel brought the best portions of the firstborn of his flock. And the LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, / but He had no regard for Cain and his offering. So Cain became very angry, and his countenance fell. ... <a href="/hebrews/11-4.htm">Hebrews 11:4</a> By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous when God gave approval to his gifts. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead. <a href="/jude/1-11.htm">Jude 1:11</a> Woe to them! They have traveled the path of Cain; they have rushed headlong into the error of Balaam; they have perished in Korah’s rebellion. <a href="/matthew/23-35.htm">Matthew 23:35</a> And so upon you will come all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. <a href="/hebrews/12-24.htm">Hebrews 12:24</a> to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. <a href="/john/8-44.htm">John 8:44</a> You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out his desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, because he is a liar and the father of lies. <a href="/matthew/5-21.htm">Matthew 5:21-22</a> You have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not murder’ and ‘Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ / But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell. <a href="/proverbs/29-10.htm">Proverbs 29:10</a> Men of bloodshed hate a blameless man, but the upright care for his life. <a href="/1_john/2-9.htm">1 John 2:9-11</a> If anyone claims to be in the light but hates his brother, he is still in the darkness. / Whoever loves his brother remains in the light, and there is no cause of stumbling in him. / But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness. He does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes. <a href="/john/3-12.htm">John 3:12-15</a> If I have told you about earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? / No one has ascended into heaven except the One who descended from heaven—the Son of Man. / Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, ... <a href="/1_john/4-20.htm">1 John 4:20</a> If anyone says, “I love God,” but hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. <a href="/james/4-2.htm">James 4:2</a> You crave what you do not have; you kill and covet, but are unable to obtain it. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask. <a href="/1_peter/4-15.htm">1 Peter 4:15</a> Indeed, none of you should suffer as a murderer or thief or wrongdoer, or even as a meddler. <a href="/romans/3-15.htm">Romans 3:15</a> “Their feet are swift to shed blood; <a href="/isaiah/1-15.htm">Isaiah 1:15</a> When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide My eyes from you; even though you multiply your prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are covered with blood.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And why slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous.as.<a href="/genesis/4-4.htm">Genesis 4:4-15,25</a> 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: … <a href="/hebrews/11-4.htm">Hebrews 11:4</a> 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.<a href="/jude/1-11.htm">Jude 1:11</a> 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.of.<a href="/1_john/3-8.htm">1 John 3:8</a> He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.<a href="/1_john/2-13.htm">1 John 2:13,14</a> I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father… <a href="/matthew/13-19.htm">Matthew 13:19,38</a> When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side… And.<a href="/1_samuel/18-14.htm">1 Samuel 18:14,15</a> And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD was with him… <a href="/1_samuel/19-4.htm">1 Samuel 19:4,5</a> And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been to theeward very good: … <a href="/1_samuel/22-14.htm">1 Samuel 22:14-16</a> Then Ahimelech answered the king, and said, And who is so faithful among all thy servants as David, which is the king's son in law, and goeth at thy bidding, and is honourable in thine house? … and his.<a href="/matthew/23-35.htm">Matthew 23:35</a> That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.<a href="/luke/11-51.htm">Luke 11:51</a> 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.<a href="/hebrews/11-4.htm">Hebrews 11:4</a> 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.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_john/2-12.htm">Account</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-17.htm">Actions</a> <a href="/james/4-11.htm">Brother's</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-4.htm">Cain</a> <a href="/1_john/3-10.htm">Child</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-4.htm">Death</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-8.htm">Deeds</a> <a href="/1_john/3-8.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-8.htm">Good</a> <a href="/james/4-2.htm">Kill</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-12.htm">Killed</a> <a href="/james/4-2.htm">Murder</a> <a href="/james/5-6.htm">Murdered</a> <a href="/1_john/3-8.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-8.htm">Resemble</a> <a href="/1_john/3-7.htm">Righteous</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-8.htm">Slay</a> <a href="/romans/7-11.htm">Slew</a> <a href="/hebrews/8-9.htm">Unlike</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-14.htm">Wherefore</a> <a href="/1_john/2-14.htm">Wicked</a> <a href="/1_john/3-8.htm">Works</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/revelation/1-2.htm">Account</a> <a href="/1_john/3-18.htm">Actions</a> <a href="/genesis/4-9.htm">Brother's</a> <a href="/jude/1-11.htm">Cain</a> <a href="/1_john/4-6.htm">Child</a> <a href="/1_john/3-14.htm">Death</a> <a href="/2_john/1-8.htm">Deeds</a> <a href="/1_john/5-18.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/1_john/3-17.htm">Good</a> <a href="/revelation/2-23.htm">Kill</a> <a href="/revelation/2-13.htm">Killed</a> <a href="/exodus/20-13.htm">Murder</a> <a href="/judges/20-4.htm">Murdered</a> <a href="/1_john/4-5.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/psalms/102-6.htm">Resemble</a> <a href="/revelation/15-3.htm">Righteous</a> <a href="/revelation/9-15.htm">Slay</a> <a href="/genesis/4-8.htm">Slew</a> <a href="/2_kings/16-2.htm">Unlike</a> <a href="/3_john/1-10.htm">Wherefore</a> <a href="/1_john/5-18.htm">Wicked</a> <a href="/2_john/1-11.htm">Works</a><div class="vheading2">1 John 3</div>1. <a href="/1_john/3-1.htm">He declares the singular love of God toward us, in making us his sons;</a> 3. <a href="/1_john/3-3.htm">who therefore ought obediently to keep his commandments;</a> 11. <a href="/1_john/3-11.htm">as also to love one another as brothers.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_john/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_john/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_john/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Do not be like Cain Cain is a significant figure in the Bible, being the firstborn son of Adam and Eve. His story is found in <a href="/genesis/4.htm">Genesis 4</a>, where he becomes the first murderer by killing his brother Abel. Cain's actions serve as a warning against jealousy, anger, and disobedience to God. The admonition to not be like Cain emphasizes the importance of resisting sinful tendencies and choosing righteousness.who belonged to the evil one This phrase indicates Cain's spiritual alignment with Satan, the "evil one." In <a href="/john/8-44.htm">John 8:44</a>, Jesus describes the devil as a murderer from the beginning, linking Cain's actions to satanic influence. This connection underscores the spiritual battle between good and evil, highlighting the need for believers to align themselves with God rather than the forces of darkness.and murdered his brother The act of murder is a grave sin, violating the sanctity of life created by God. Cain's murder of Abel is not just a physical act but a manifestation of deep-seated sin, including envy and hatred. This event foreshadows the destructive power of sin and the need for redemption through Christ, who offers forgiveness and transformation.And why did Cain slay him? This rhetorical question invites reflection on the motives behind Cain's actions. It encourages believers to examine their own hearts and motivations, recognizing that sinful actions often stem from deeper issues like pride, jealousy, and a lack of love.Because his own deeds were evil Cain's deeds were evil because they were not offered in faith or obedience to God. <a href="/hebrews/11-4.htm">Hebrews 11:4</a> contrasts Cain's offering with Abel's, noting that Abel's was given in faith, making it acceptable to God. This highlights the importance of the heart's condition in worship and service to God.while those of his brother were righteous Abel's righteousness is attributed to his faith and obedience to God. His offering was accepted because it was given with a sincere heart, demonstrating the principle that God values the intentions behind actions. Abel's righteousness serves as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate example of righteousness and obedience to the Father.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/c/cain.htm">Cain</a> The firstborn son of Adam and Eve, known for committing the first murder by killing his brother Abel. His actions are often associated with jealousy and disobedience to God. 2. <a href="/topical/a/abel.htm">Abel</a> The second son of Adam and Eve, whose offering was accepted by God due to his righteousness. His murder by Cain is a pivotal event illustrating the conflict between good and evil. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_evil_one.htm">The Evil One</a> A reference to Satan, who is often depicted as the instigator of sin and rebellion against God. Cain is described as belonging to the evil one, indicating his alignment with sinful actions. 4. <a href="/topical/m/murder.htm">Murder</a> The act committed by Cain against Abel, representing the ultimate expression of hatred and sin. 5. <a href="/topical/r/righteousness.htm">Righteousness</a> The quality attributed to Abel, whose deeds were pleasing to God, contrasting with Cain's evil actions.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_jealousy_and_envy.htm">The Danger of Jealousy and Envy</a> Jealousy can lead to destructive actions if not checked. Cain's envy of Abel's favor with God led to murder. We must guard our hearts against jealousy and seek contentment in God's provision. <a href="/topical/t/the_influence_of_the_evil_one.htm">The Influence of the Evil One</a> Cain's alignment with the evil one serves as a warning of the spiritual battle we face. We must remain vigilant and resist the devil's temptations by staying rooted in God's Word. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_righteousness.htm">The Importance of Righteousness</a> Abel's righteous deeds were pleasing to God, highlighting the importance of living a life that aligns with God's will. Our actions should reflect our faith and commitment to God. <a href="/topical/t/the_consequences_of_sin.htm">The Consequences of Sin</a> Cain's account illustrates the severe consequences of sin, both in his life and in his relationship with God. Sin separates us from God, and we must seek repentance and restoration through Christ. <a href="/topical/b/brotherly_love_and_unity.htm">Brotherly Love and Unity</a> The contrast between Cain and Abel underscores the call to love one another. As believers, we are called to live in harmony and support each other in righteousness.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_john_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 John 3</a> <a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_cain_with_ancient_origins.htm">1 John 3:12 references Cain’s murder of Abel; how do we handle possible conflicts with ancient human origins or archaeological evidence? </a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_sibling_rivalry.htm">What does the Bible say about sibling rivalry?</a> <a href="/q/do_some_christians_see_calvinism_as_heresy.htm">What is the significance of the Way of Cain?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'raising_cain'_mean.htm">What does "Raising Cain" mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_john/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 12. - The sentence is of an elliptical form, common in language. The full sense is, "Not that we should do even as Cain, who was of the evil one, and slew his brother." Cain's conduct typifies the attitude of the world towards Christians. Σφάζειν in the New Testament occurs only here and in Revelation. In the LXX and the New Testament it seems to mean "slay" without necessarily implying the cutting the throat of a victim. That Cain's works were evil is not stated in Genesis, but is inferred from God's rejection of him. Compare carefully the remarkably parallel passage, <a href="/hebrews/11-4.htm">Hebrews 11:4</a>. The wicked envy the good the blessedness of their goodness, and try to destroy what they cannot share. The war between good and evil is one of extermination; but the wicked would destroy the righteous, while the righteous would destroy wickedness by converting the wicked. <a href="/commentaries/1_john/3-12.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>[Do] not [be] οὐ (ou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. like καθὼς (kathōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_2531.htm">Strong's 2531: </a> According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that. Cain, Κάϊν (Kain) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2535.htm">Strong's 2535: </a> (Hebrew), Cain, son of Adam and Eve and brother of Abel. Of Hebrew origin; Cain, the son of Adam. [who] belonged to ἦν (ēn) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. the τοῦ (tou) Article - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. evil [one] πονηροῦ (ponērou) Adjective - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4190.htm">Strong's 4190: </a> Evil, bad, wicked, malicious, slothful. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. murdered ἔσφαξεν (esphaxen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4969.htm">Strong's 4969: </a> To slay, kill by violence, slaughter, wound mortally. A primary verb; to butcher or to slaughter, or, to maim. his αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. brother. ἀδελφὸν (adelphon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_80.htm">Strong's 80: </a> A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote. And καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. why χάριν (charin) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5484.htm">Strong's 5484: </a> Accusative case of charis as preposition; through favor of, i.e. On account of. did he slay ἔσφαξεν (esphaxen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4969.htm">Strong's 4969: </a> To slay, kill by violence, slaughter, wound mortally. A primary verb; to butcher or to slaughter, or, to maim. him? αὐτόν (auton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. Because ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. his αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. [own] τὰ (ta) Article - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. deeds ἔργα (erga) Noun - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2041.htm">Strong's 2041: </a> From a primary ergo; toil; by implication, an act. were ἦν (ēn) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. evil, πονηρὰ (ponēra) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4190.htm">Strong's 4190: </a> Evil, bad, wicked, malicious, slothful. while δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. those τὰ (ta) Article - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. of τοῦ (tou) Article - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. his αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. brother ἀδελφοῦ (adelphou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_80.htm">Strong's 80: </a> A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote. [were] righteous. δίκαια (dikaia) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1342.htm">Strong's 1342: </a> From dike; equitable; by implication, innocent, holy. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_john/3-12.htm">1 John 3:12 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_john/3-12.htm">NT Letters: 1 John 3:12 Unlike Cain who was of the evil (1J iJ 1Jn i jn 1 jo) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_john/3-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 John 3:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 John 3:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_john/3-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 John 3:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 John 3:13" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>