1 John 3:12

Amharic New Standard Translation (አማርኛ አዲሱ መደበኛ ትርጉም) 2005

የሰይጣን ወገን እንደ ነበረውና ወንድሙን እንደ ገደለው እንደ ቃየል መሆን አይገባንም፤ እርሱ ወንድሙን ስለምን ገደለው? የእርሱ ሥራ ክፉ ስለ ነበረና የወንድሙ ሥራ ግን ትክክል ስለ ነበረ ነው።

What Does This Mean?

This verse from 1 John 3:12 says that we should not act like Cain, who killed his brother Abel because he was jealous of Abel's righteousness and his own evil deeds. It teaches us to avoid jealousy and hatred.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a friend who always shares their toys, but you never share yours. One day, you feel so upset that you want to take their toy away. That’s like Cain feeling jealous of Abel's good behavior and wanting to hurt him because of it. The verse tells us not to be like Cain.

Historical Background

The First Epistle of John was written by the Apostle John around AD 90-100, aimed at believers in the early Christian church. It addresses issues like false teaching, moral living, and assurance of salvation, reflecting concerns within a community facing internal divisions.

Living It Out Today

In modern terms, this verse can apply to workplace situations where someone is envious of another's success or achievements and feels compelled to sabotage them instead of improving their own work. It reminds us to focus on our own righteousness rather than being jealous of others.

Topics

• jealousy
• righteousness
• sin
• faith
• morality
• hatred

Related Verses

• Genesis 4:8
• James 5:17-18
• Matthew 23:29-31
• Romans 13:14
• Hebrews 12:14

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean by 'of that wicked one' in this verse?

'Of that wicked one' refers to Satan or the devil. It suggests Cain was influenced by evil forces, leading him to act out of jealousy and hatred.

How can we avoid falling into jealousy like Cain?

To avoid jealousy, focus on your own growth and righteousness instead of comparing yourself to others. Cultivate gratitude and contentment in what God has given you.

What is the broader message about morality from this verse?

The broader message is that our actions reflect our character. Being righteous brings peace, while evil deeds lead to conflict and destruction.

How can this verse guide my behavior towards others who are more successful or righteous?

This verse guides you to see the success of others as an inspiration rather than a threat. Use it as motivation to improve yourself and strive for righteousness in your own life.