But for Cain and for his offering, He did not have respect. And Cain was very angry and his countenance fell. Genesis 4:5, MEV
Genesis 4:5 (MEV) states: “but for Cain and for his offering, He did not have respect. And Cain was very angry and his countenance fell.” This verse describes how God regarded Abel and his offering with favor, but did not show the same regard for Cain and his offering.
However, understanding this does not mean that God is “a respecter of persons” in the sense of showing partiality or favoritism based on human status. The wider biblical context clarifies that God does not show favoritism based on external characteristics, social category, or nationality. For example, Acts 10:34–35 states, “God is no respecter of persons,” emphasizing that God accepts those who fear Him and do what is right, regardless of background. Similar sentiments are found in Romans 2:11 and Ephesians 6:9.
The distinction in Genesis 4 between Cain and Abel relates not to arbitrary favoritism, but rather to the state of their hearts and the nature of their offerings. Many commentators argue that it was the attitude of Cain, or possibly the type or quality of his offering, that led to God’s different responses. God tells Cain, “If you do well, shall you not be accepted? But if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door” (Genesis 4:7 MEV). This suggests that God’s acceptance or rejection is based on righteousness, not personal favoritism.
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