Genesis 4:3 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. 4 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: 5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect.
Question: Why did The Lord not have respect unto Cain’s offering, while He clearly approved of Abel’s? Before we attempt to answer this question we must remember that Cain did in fact adopt several of the same instructions as did Abel. He built an altar, he was present for worship, and he acknowledged God in His capacity as God. But Cain did not agree with the type of sacrifice God had specified.
And because he viewed it as a mere good suggestion, he then presumed to modify it to suit his own convenience with the vain hope that someway, somehow God would accept his idea. But Cain was to become very disappointed when he learned that God is not into modifications. Some people may be quick to criticize Cain for what he did, but before pointing fingers, we should take a moment to examine his perspectives, for they are too often replicated in the modes of thought and action that are prevalent today.
By strictly human standards, Cain’s offering would be considered more humane, and certain animal rights activists may have balked at the command to sacrifice an innocent lamb. In other words, Cain’s view was that, in certain instances, God’s requirements are unnecessary, inconvenient, or disagreeable, and as such, other options which he deems to be less objectionable or cruel should, and ought to be adopted.
Deuteronomy 4:2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!