Playing for Keepers

The other night we asked a poker player if he was "his brother's keeper" -- and he said no. In the competitive nature of a poker game, that may be true. But what about the rest of life?

Did you recognize where that phrase originated? It's very early in the Bible....

Then the Lord said to Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?" "I don't know," he replied. "Am I my brother's keeper?" - Genesis 4:9

The Lord God might as well have asked Cain if he'd hit a flush on the river. Cain's answer was nothing short of a dodge -- since in the preceding verse, "Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him." Verses 10-12 indicate the Lord knew the right answer, and punished Cain for his sin.

But what about Cain's (and our) classic question? We think the clearest answer is found in the New Testament....

Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. - Galatians 6:1-2

From what we can tell, of course, Abel wasn't sinning when he was killed. But if you're caring about "brothers" in a tough situation, why wouldn't you care about them when times are good?

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching. - Hebrews 10:24-25

If you're not sure what a "brother" really is, check the Bible study we prepared on that several years ago. Then don't be afraid to care for brothers -- no matter where they are, or what their condition.