Cain’s Way

Cain chooses his own way to respond (Jude 11). He invited Abel to accompany him to the field, where he killed him. He eliminates his own brother, who is better or more righteous than him.

1) Way of Unbelief: While Abel chooses the path of faith, Cain is unbelief. Abel had faith in bringing the lamb that would point to the Lamb of God, who would take away the world's sin by shedding His blood. Cain was self-dependent rather than God-dependent. Cain was so proud he could not bring the God-required offering in faith.

2) Way of Envy: Cain also was envious of his brother. Abel had qualities that he did not possess. Instead of striving to be like Abel, he chooses to eliminate Abel so that he becomes the sole receiver of blessing. Envy is rottenness to bones.

3) Way of Negative Attitude: Cain chose to dwell in his negative state of mind. There was no remorse or repentance but rather defiance. He preferred to be at war with God rather than repent and be reconciled to God. His negative approach to life made him a murderer.

4) Way of Violence: Cain chose violence as a tool for “punishing'' Abel, who was righteous. Cain could not tolerate having a better person live on the face of the earth.

5) Way of Rebellion and Stubbornness: Despite a warning from God, he went ahead and killed Abel. When God confronted Cain, he lied, stating that he did not know where his brother was and asked whether he was his brother's keeper. His attitude towards God, Abel and moral values was that of rebellion and stubbornness.

6) Way of Unrepentance: Cain also did not repent. He lost the capacity to repent. This is because of the hardening of his heart and being insensitive to the Holy Spirit. Cain was like the elder son in the Prodigal Son parable, who stood outside his home instead of being inside.

Have I chosen Lord Jesus as the Way?