Cain and Abel – Sibling Rivalry to the Extreme
“Am I my brother’s keeper?“
Brothers argue and brothers fight. But this Cain and Abel Bible study from Genesis 4:1-16 takes it to the next level..
This Bible study lesson covers the tragic story of two brothers as told in Genesis.
The Anger of Cain Toward Abel
Abel, on his part also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and for his offering; but for Cain and for his offering He had no regard.
So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell.
Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen?
If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up?
And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.”
Cain told Abel his brother. And it came about when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.
Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” And he said, “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?”
He said, “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to Me from the ground. – Genesis 4:4-10 NASB
Extreme Anger of Cain
This is where it all started – sibling rivalry! The sons of Adam and Eve set a precedent that has lasted to this day.
Certain Facts about Siblings
Did you ever fight with your brother or sister? If you have any siblings I’m sure you have had some real whoppers! I know I have. Sibling rivalries are so common because siblings often compete for their parents’ attention and resources. Additionally, differences in personality, age, and interests can lead to frequent conflicts. These rivalries can also be a natural part of growing up, as children learn to navigate social dynamics and develop their own identities.
Fortunately, most of our differences and sibling rivalries can be resolved without physically hurting our brothers or sisters. Ultimately, Cain took his jealousy and anger to the extreme and committed murder — making him an outcast in Eden.
Why Did God Reject Cain’s Sacrifice?
In these verses, Abel offered a blood sacrifice while Cain offered fruits and vegetables. However, it’s not clear why God rejected Cain’s offering. It could have been that God was not pleased with Cain’s attitude for giving.
Spirit of Giving
When an offering is given grudgingly it does not have the same effect as a gift given with gladness. So, it’s possible that Cain gave with the wrong attitude, and with the wrong motives.
God knows our hearts. And He knows why we give. For instance, if we give out of a sense of obligation or guilt, this is not considered an act of worship.
We should give of our money, our talents and our time with a willingness to please God, not just because we feel “obligated” to put our “10%” into the offering plate on Sunday.
God Gave All with the Right Attitude
Let’s give back to God with joy. After all, everything we have belongs to Him in the first place.
God owns the entire universe and everything within it. This includes not only the material possessions we hold but also our talents, time, and even our very lives. By giving back to God with joy, we acknowledge His ultimate ownership and express our gratitude for His abundant blessings.
And remember, God willingly gave his only Son, Jesus Christ, on the cross so that we may live and be forgiven for our sins.
Our gifts pale in significance but God appreciates them for the thought and attitude with which we give.
Another Lesson from Cain and Abel
There are many lessons that come from the story of Cain and Abel such as the banishment from Eden and the mark God placed on Cain.
I encourage you to read all the verses and contemplate the meaning behind each one.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like more information about the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to read John 3:16 .