What is the meaning of 1 John 3:12?

Do not be like Cain

• John opens with a clear negative example: love must define believers (1 John 3:10-11; John 13:34-35).

• Cain shows what happens when love is rejected—hatred takes root.

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who belonged to the evil one

• Scripture recognizes only two spiritual families (1 John 3:8-10; John 8:44; Ephesians 2:2).

• Cain’s allegiance to Satan explains his attitude long before his act.

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and murdered his brother

• Hatred ripened into murder (Genesis 4:8; 1 John 3:15; Matthew 5:21-22).

• Sin twists the God-given bond of family into lethal rivalry.

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And why did Cain slay him?

• Genesis 4:4-7 shows Cain envying God’s favor toward Abel.

• Unchecked resentment turned wounded pride into violence (Jude 11).

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Because his own deeds were evil

• Cain’s sacrifice lacked faith and obedience (Genesis 4:5; Hebrews 11:4; Proverbs 15:8; John 3:19-20).

• Outward worship could not hide an inwardly rebellious heart.

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while those of his brother were righteous

• Abel offered the firstborn of his flock in faith, earning God’s approval (Genesis 4:4; Hebrews 11:4).

• Righteous deeds expose darkness and often provoke it (Matthew 23:35; John 15:18-19).

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summary

Cain’s story warns that jealousy, if unrepented, aligns us with the evil one and breeds hatred that can destroy others. In Christ we choose Abel’s path—faith expressed in righteous deeds and genuine love—proving we are children of God.