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.
6. Father, strengthen my relationships and help me to walk in love.
7. Lord, help me to forgive and reconcile with others.
8. Father, give me the wisdom to encourage and uplift those who are struggling.
9. Lord, help me to be a faithful steward of what You have given me to bless others.
10. Father, let my life be a testimony of selfless love and compassion.
