For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. (1 John 3:11-12, KJV)
The human heart craves acceptance. The highest and greatest acceptance we can receive is that of God’s. And when we accept God and embrace His acceptance of us, it will cause us to accept and embrace our brethren. Cain and Abel are a case in point.
They both worshipped God, bringing offerings before Him (Genesis 4:3-5). It is not a stretch to say they both wanted God’s acceptance. However, the two brothers sought it in contrasting ways. Cain was a farmer and from his crop he brought his offerings. Abel was a shepherd and brought choice offerings from his flock. Cain’s offering was rejected, while his brother’s was accepted. Why?
Abel brought an animal sacrifice, showing his recognition of sin and its solution. It pointed to the Christ to come, who would take away the sin of the world (John 1:29). However, Cain’s offering was bloodless (Lev. 17:11; Heb. 9:22). He felt he would be accepted based on the fruit he himself produced. So it appears Cain failed to recognise his sin and his need of a Savior. We see this reflected in his anger when his offering was not accepted.
To silence Abel’s righteous witness, Cain murdered him. His rage and jealousy lead him to do so. This proves that Cain had rejected God’s grace and acceptance. For God’s grace received is God’s grace revealed. We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren (1John 3:14).
God previously told Cain that “sin lieth at the door” (Genesis 4:7). Many interrupt this to mean sin is like a wild beast ready to pounce. But there is an alternative view. The Hebrew word for sin here is frequently translated as “sin offering” in the Old Testament. Could it be that God was telling Cain the “sin offering” was at his door, still available for him to bring? Offer it with repentance, as did Abel, and it would surely be accepted. By doing so, Cain, the firstborn, would also gain the lost respect of his younger brother. However, instead of showing contrition, Cain hardened his heart against God and his brother. He rejected God’s offering. The blood of Abel testifies to this (Genesis 4:10).
God has already accepted us in Christ. Have you accepted His acceptance? If so, you will bring the right offering to God in worship, not human works but the merits of Christ. And if you are truly putting your faith in Christ, it will show. Instead of slaying your brethren with words and deeds, you will show your love for them.
Used by permission of SermonView
