What happens when one fails to “master” their sin?

What happens when cancer goes untreated?

Even those of us with scant medical knowledge know that it will spread to the point that the body can no longer fight and will, tragically, succumb to the illness. 

This isn’t too different from a life of unmitigated sin. 

Cain’s Decision

Let’s turn to Cain and Abel.

In Genesis 4v7, Cain is encouraged to “master” his sin or be lost to its destructive influence.

We’re not sure how much time passes between verses 7 and 8 but no time is wasted in showing us what Cain does with God’s words.

Spoiler alert: Basically nothing.

Cain beckons Abel into a field where he abruptly kills him. No fanfare, just the sober horror of murder.

Sin was lurking at Cain’s door and, sure enough, it got him.

When God confronts Cain and asks where Abel is, Cain responds with the now infamous, “I do not know; am I my brother’s keeper?” A disrespectful lie to the person who, a few verses prior, tried to help him find his way.

But Cain has chosen his path.

So he’s exiled and cries in dismay, not out of remorse but out of self-pity, illustrating just how lost he’s become.

Cancer of the Soul

Struggling with sin is common to all — follower of Jesus or not. What makes Cain so distinct, though, is that he embraced his sin. Instead of seeking God’s gracious help, he takes the easy route and gives in.

Why does a cancer patient receive chemotherapy knowing it will have painful effects? Because they know it will weaken the cancer growing within them.

They could do nothing about it. They could avoid the trials of chemo but, of course, this would mean their cancer would spread.

Cancer can only take the body. But sin? Sin takes the soul.

So is there treatment? Absolutely and it’s exactly what we will look at tomorrow. 

For now, be blessed.

Jon,

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