Text: Genesis 4:1–16
Today we are looking at the story of Cain and Abel, the first two brothers in the Bible. This story teaches us important lessons about our hearts, our choices, and God’s mercy.
Two Brothers, Two Offerings
Cain and Abel both brought offerings to God.
l Cain brought some fruits from his crops.
l Abel brought the first and best from his animals.
God accepted Abel’s offering but did not accept Cain’s.
This does not mean God loved Abel more.
God was looking at their hearts, not just what they brought.
Lesson: God wants us to give Him our best, with faith and love—not just go through the motions.
Cain’s Anger
When Cain saw that God accepted Abel’s offering, he became angry and jealous.
Instead of talking to God or fixing his heart, Cain let his anger grow.
God spoke to Cain and warned him:
“Sin is crouching at your door… but you must rule over it.” (Genesis 4:7)
Lesson: We all get angry sometimes, but anger becomes dangerous when we do not control it.
A Terrible Choice
Cain ignored God’s warning.
He took Abel into a field and killed his own brother.
This was the first murder in the Bible.
Lesson: Small sins like jealousy and anger can grow into big sins if we do not stop them early.
God’s Question and Cain’s Answer
God asked Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?”
Cain replied:
“Am I my brother’s keeper?”
This shows Cain did not take responsibility for his actions.
Lesson: God already knows what we have done, but He wants us to be honest and repent.
God’s Judgment and Mercy
God punished Cain by sending him away to wander.
But God also showed mercy:
l God did not kill Cain.
l God placed a mark on him to protect him.
Lesson: God is just, but He is also merciful. He gives consequences, but He does not stop loving us.
What This Story Teaches Us
God cares about our hearts, not just our actions.
l We must deal with anger and jealousy quickly.
l Sin always gives us a choice before it controls us.
l God warns us because He loves us.
l God’s mercy is greater than our failures.
Conclusion
The story of Cain and Abel reminds us that every day we face choices:
l Will we give God our best?
l Will we control sin—or let sin control us?
l Will we listen to God’s warning?
Jesus later showed us the better way—love instead of hate, forgiveness instead of anger.
Closing Prayer
Lord, help us to give You our best. Teach us to control our anger and listen to Your voice. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. Amen.
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