Two Lines of People and Violence Between Them

Genesis 4:1–5 (NASB95) 

1Now the man had relations with his wife Eve, and she conceived and gave birth to Cain, and she said, “I have gotten a manchild with the help of the Lord.” 2Again, she gave birth to his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of flocks, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. 3So it came about in the course of time that Cain brought an offering to the Lord of the fruit of the ground. 4Abel, 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; 5but for Cain and for his offering He had no regard. So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. 

The story of Cain and Abel introduces the reality of life outside Eden and immediately shows the fulfillment of God’s prophecy that two groups would emerge from humanity—those who belong to God and those aligned with the adversary. Eve’s joy at Cain’s birth expresses hope in God’s promise and underscores her renewed dependence on the Lord. Yet, the narrative quickly shifts to highlight the contrast between the brothers, not only in their vocations but in their hearts. Abel, whose name hints at the fleeting nature of life, brings the best of his flock, offering the choicest portions in faith and devotion. Cain, meanwhile, brings “some” of his crops, lacking mention of first fruits or the best, subtly pointing to a less wholehearted approach. 

God’s response is telling: He accepts Abel, the man himself, and his offering, but does not accept Cain or his offering. This moment is not simply about the offerings, but about the men and their relationship with God. Abel is received as a covenant partner, a pattern seen throughout Genesis where God’s blessing and covenant follow those whose hearts are aligned with Him, not merely the firstborn or those of privilege. The text makes clear that God’s acceptance is about the integrity and faith of the worshiper, not the external gift. Abel’s faith sets him apart, while Cain’s self-centeredness and lack of genuine devotion lead to rejection. This personal rejection—not merely of his sacrifice, but of himself—explains the depth of Cain’s anger and sense of exclusion. 

Here we already see the prophetic division from Genesis 3:15 playing out: Abel becomes the representative of those who will walk in faith and covenant with God, while Cain’s line foreshadows those who will live alienated from God’s presence. And notice the enmity – the violence – that will happen between them. We just witnessed this ourselves with the events in Utah. The story underscores that the division among humanity is not based on vocation or birth order but grows from the condition of the heart and the reality of faith. 

The church today stands at the same crossroads as Cain and Abel. Will we stand in God’s truth? Will we support His mission? Will we work with God to restore the human family? Or like Cain, will we oppose God? This is the same drama we see playing out in the world today. 

What will your choice be?