What We Learn From Bad Guys Like Cain

Jude warns us about people infiltrating our churches who "have taken the way of Cain" (Jude 1:4; 1:11).

Cain was an unrepentant faker (Genesis 4:1-15):

• He was outwardly religious, but he had no faith (Hebrews 11:4). 
• He had every opportunity to know God and repent. God spoke to him directly (Genesis 4:6-7).
• He killed his brother “because his own actions were evil and his brother's were righteous” (1 John 3:12).

"Cains" among us today do the same:

• They have outward religion, not relationship  (2 Timothy 3:5; Acts 20:30).
• They deceive themselves by hearing the Word but not living it (James 1:22-25). They may "talk the talk" but they won't "walk the walk."
• They will work against God's purposes in the church like "weeds among the wheat" (Matthew 13:24-30).

"Cains" exist. Jude warns us to be aware and "contend for the faith" (Jude 1:3). We should test all counsel, advice and teaching against God's Word, even if it comes from someone within the church.

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Here are 3 other 1-minute devotions that address different aspects of Cain's actions and attitudes.
A Good Bad Example
The Heart of the Matter
Standing Firm

To do a short Bible study on this devotion, check out today's Bite Size Bible Study.

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