Brother's Keeper

<<term ‘coined’ by Cain>>

Cain said to God, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Gen 4:9). He had a guilty conscience and didn’t want to face his responsibility. However, we should be interested in the wellbeing of our fellow humans, be it blood relatives, believers in Christ or those at this stage still outside the Kingdom. This empathy is not to be as busybodies, meddling in another’s affairs, but rather a genuine concern for their welfare,

Who is God challenging me to be a keeper to?

showing neighbourly kindness, warning of danger, providing encouragement, advice, support, displaying Christian compassion and interest in what is important to them. “Doing to others as I would like them to do to me” is sometimes called the ‘golden rule’ (Lk 6:31). This includes challenging them if we see un-Christian tendencies taking place. For those who have sinned, endeavour with love and humility to restore them, being mindful of areas in our own lives that we should be addressing (Mt 7:3-5; 2 Cor 5:18,19; Gal 6:1,2; Jas 5:19,20). This accountability is for everyone’s benefit and protection.

The Bible instructs us to endeavour to live at peace with everyone (Rom 12:18; 2 Cor 13:11). Strained relationships and all forms of conflict should be resolved.

Jesus said, “Whatever we do to our fellow man is in effect what we do to Him” (Mt 25:35-45).