Be Your Brother's Keeper

BE YOUR BROTHER'S KEEPER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 4:9

"Then the Lord said to Cain, 'Where is Abel your brother?' He said, 'I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?'"

Supporting Texts: Galatians 6:2, 1 John 3:16-18, Matthew 25:40, Hebrews 13:1, Philippians 2:4

INTRODUCTION

God designed humanity to live in love, unity, and mutual care. The phrase “Am I my brother’s keeper?” originates from Cain’s response to God after he murdered his brother Abel. This statement reflects selfishness, irresponsibility, and a disregard for the well-being of others. However, God expects us to care for one another, just as He cares for us.

In a world filled with division, hatred, and selfishness, the call to be our brother’s keeper is more urgent than ever. This message explores what it means to be our brother’s keeper and how we can fulfill this divine mandate.

1. THE MEANING OF BEING YOUR BROTHER'S KEEPER

To be our brother’s keeper means to care for, support, and help others in their times of need.

a) It Means Taking Responsibility for Others

God expects us to look out for the welfare of others (Galatians 6:2).

b) It Means Showing Genuine Love and Compassion

True love is demonstrated in actions, not just words (1 John 3:16-18).

c) It Means Encouraging and Strengthening Others

We are called to build one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

d) It Means Being Sensitive to the Needs of Others

We should not only focus on our own interests but also on others (Philippians 2:4).

e) Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan

He went out of his way to help a wounded stranger (Luke 10:25-37).

2. WHY WE MUST BE OUR BROTHER'S KEEPER

God commands us to love and care for others as an expression of His love.

a) God Created Us for Relationships

No one is meant to live in isolation (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

b) It is a Commandment from God

Loving our neighbours is the fulfilment of the law (Matthew 22:37-39).

c) It Reflects the Love of Christ

Jesus laid down His life for us as an example (John 15:12-13).

d) We Will Be Judged by How We Treat Others

Jesus said what we do for others, we do for Him (Matthew 25:40).

e) Biblical Example: Ruth and Naomi

Ruth chose to care for her mother-in-law instead of leaving her alone (Ruth 1:16-17).

3. HOW TO BE YOUR BROTHER’S KEEPER

Caring for others requires intentional actions and a heart of love.

a) Pray for Others

Intercession is a way of showing care (James 5:16).

b) Meet the Needs of Others

Help in practical ways when possible (Proverbs 19:17).

c) Offer Encouragement and Support

Speak life and hope into people’s situations (Hebrews 10:24-25).

d) Forgive and Reconcile

Avoid hatred and bitterness; choose peace (Colossians 3:13).

e) Biblical Example: Barnabas and Paul

Barnabas stood by Paul and encouraged his ministry (Acts 9:26-27).

4. THE DANGERS OF NOT BEING YOUR BROTHER'S KEEPER

Neglecting others leads to broken relationships and divine disapproval.

a) It Leads to a Selfish and Hardened Heart

Lack of concern for others breeds insensitivity (Proverbs 21:13).

b) It Can Lead to Division and Strife

When people are neglected, bitterness and conflict arise (James 3:16).

c) It Brings Judgment from God

Ignoring the needy invites divine displeasure (Matthew 25:41-45).

d) It Hinders God’s Blessings

God blesses those who care for others (Proverbs 11:25).

e) Biblical Example: The Rich Man and Lazarus

The rich man ignored Lazarus and suffered eternal punishment (Luke 16:19-25).

5. THE REWARDS OF BEING YOUR BROTHER’S KEEPER

God honours those who show love and care for others.

a) It Brings God’s Blessings

When we give, we receive (Luke 6:38).

b) It Leads to Divine Favour

Helping others attracts favour (Proverbs 19:17).

c) It Strengthens Relationships and Unity

A caring attitude fosters peace and harmony (Hebrews 13:1).

d) It Brings Eternal Rewards

Those who serve others will be rewarded in heaven (Matthew 25:34).

e) Biblical Example: The Early Church

The first believers cared for each other, and God blessed them (Acts 2:44-47).

CONCLUSION

God has called us to be our brother’s keeper, to love and care for one another as He loves us. In a world that promotes selfishness and individualism, we must rise and embrace this divine responsibility.

Are you willing to be your brother’s keeper? Will you show love, kindness, and support to those in need? Remember, whatever you do for others, you do for the Lord.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, give me a heart that genuinely cares for others.

2. Father, help me to be sensitive to the needs of people around me.

3. Lord, remove every spirit of selfishness from my life.

4. Father, use me as a vessel to show Your love to others.

5. Lord, let my life be a blessing to those in need.