Cain and Abel: A Lesson in Daily Repentance and Self-Denial By Dr. Yoon

Have you ever wondered how siblings raised in the same home, learning identical values, can become divided by hostility or even violence? This question is as relevant today as it was during the Korean War, where ideological divisions tragically turned brothers against each other. Such painful realities lead us back to the very first instance of familial division recorded in Scripture—the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4.

Understanding the Conflict
Genesis tells us:
« And in the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering He had not respect » (Genesis 4:3–5).
This difference was not about preference; it was a matter of spiritual obedience. Cain chose to offer fruit—symbolic of his own labor and righteousness. Abel brought a lamb, acknowledging his sinfulness and need for redemption through sacrifice. Ellen G. White clarifies:
« Cain and Abel represent two classes that will exist in the world till the close of time. One class avail themselves of the appointed sacrifice for sin; the other venture to depend upon their own merits. Theirs is a religion of outward show, destitute of saving faith » (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 71).

The Heart of Cain’s Rebellion
Cain’s rejection of God’s prescribed sacrifice reflects a deeper spiritual pride. He was unwilling to submit humbly, choosing instead self-sufficiency. His anger arose from the realization that his approach was inadequate. Ellen White elaborates:
« Cain came before God with murmuring and infidelity in his heart… His gift expressed no penitence for sin. He felt… that it would be an acknowledgment of weakness to follow the exact plan marked out by God » (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 72).
Cain’s tragedy was not merely physical murder but spiritual rebellion. His actions symbolically put Christ to death (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 74), reflecting a rejection of grace and dependence on self rather than God.

The Relevance for Today
The spirit of Cain still threatens us today—even within the church. Like Cain, we may be tempted to rely on our own righteousness, believing good deeds and religious observances sufficient. Yet Jesus clearly states:
« Without Me you can do nothing » (John 15:5).
As Seventh-day Adventists anticipating Christ’s return, we must heed the call of Revelation 14:12, emphasizing faithfulness grounded not in self-reliance but in the righteousness and faith of Jesus.

The Danger of Neglecting Daily Repentance
Cain’s life warns us against the danger of unrepentance. Neglecting daily humility and surrender allows bitterness and pride to take root:
« Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled » (Hebrews 12:15).
Ellen White counsels:
« The closer you come to Jesus, the more faulty you will appear in your own eyes… Those whom Heaven recognizes as holy ones are the last to boast of their own goodness » (Steps to Christ, p. 64).

Abel’s Faithful Example
Abel’s legacy is silent yet powerful. Hebrews affirms his faith:
« By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous » (Hebrews 11:4).
Abel’s righteousness was not achieved by his efforts but received by faith through the symbolic lamb—pointing forward to Christ, the true Lamb of God.

A Final Warning and Invitation
Today, as we approach the final conflict described in Scripture, the issue of true worship versus self-centered worship resurfaces. Cain’s path is broad and deceptively easy—characterized by pride, self-righteousness, and resistance to repentance. Abel’s path, however, is narrow, requiring daily surrender, humility, and acceptance of Christ’s sacrifice.
Ellen White warns clearly:
« No man can of himself understand his errors… Christ is the only true standard of character, and he who sets himself up as a standard will surely fall under condemnation » (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 159).

Your Decision Today
Beloved friends, where do you stand today?
Are you offering God the fruits of your efforts or the humble sacrifice of Christ? Are you walking Cain’s path or Abel’s?
Jesus lovingly calls each of us:
« If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me » (Luke 9:23).
May we choose Abel’s humility over Cain’s pride, relying solely on Christ’s grace each day.

Join us each Sabbath at Paris International Seventh-day Adventist Church as we journey together in humility, repentance, and faith, preparing for the soon return of Jesus Christ.