How does 1 John 3:10 define the children of God and the devil? The central verse 1 John 3:10: “By this the children of God and the children of the devil are distinguished: Anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is anyone who does not love his brother.” Two spiritual families • Scripture recognizes only two lineages—God’s and the devil’s (see John 8:44). • Everyone shows, by ongoing conduct, which family they belong to. Marks of the children of God • Practice righteousness—habitual, Spirit-empowered obedience (1 John 2:29; Romans 8:14). • Love fellow believers—sacrificial, tangible care (John 13:35; 1 John 4:7). • Bear the Spirit’s fruit rather than fleshly works (Galatians 5:22-23). • Persevere in faith and truth (1 John 5:1; 2 John 1:9). Marks of the children of the devil • Persist in sin without repentance (1 John 3:8). • Harbor hatred, jealousy, or indifference toward others (1 John 3:12, 15). • Reject or twist the truth of Christ (2 Peter 2:1). • Follow “the desires of the flesh and of the mind” (Ephesians 2:3). Harmony with the wider biblical witness • Matthew 7:16-20—“You will recognize them by their fruit.” • James 2:14-17—Living faith produces works of mercy. • 2 Timothy 2:19—“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.” • Revelation 12:17—True believers “keep God’s commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus.” Living as God’s children today • Abide in Christ daily (John 15:5). • Pursue holiness through the Word and Spirit (Psalm 119:9; Galatians 5:16). • Love actively—serve, forgive, give, encourage (1 John 3:18). • Walk confidently, knowing our new birth is evidenced by transformed conduct and genuine love (1 John 5:13). |
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