1 John 3:12
[12] 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.
Have you ever wondered why Cain slew his brother? Abel had never attempted to hurt Cain, or do him wrong. He was no threat to him. In fact, Abel loved Cain. The two of them had grown up, played, worked and worshipped God together. They shared many precious memories with each other. Then one day it was all destroyed in a field, when Cain slew Abel with a vengeance.
Perhaps we could offer up several reasons that may prove to be true, but the best answer is in our verse. The Bible tells us why Cain slew Abel. He killed his brother because his own works were evil, and his brother’s works were righteous. Abel was living in obedience to God, and Cain was living in disobedience. He envied his brother because he did what God asked them to do.
We live in a world of envy and jealousy. However, envy and jealousy are far uglier when it is seen among the brethren. When a brother turns on his brother, it is a very sad commentary. What a disgrace that he would want to eliminate his own brother. Whenever church members and preachers turn against each other, it is just as shameful. I know misunderstandings happen, but let me remind you, that some turn against their brother because they themselves are not doing right. They want others to follow their ways, and when they don’t, they are stricken with envy, pride, and jealousy. Evil always hates righteousness, and it always will. We must be careful we don’t allow it in our hearts, and let it turn us against our own. Remember, if we live by the sword, we will die by the sword.