Cain and Abel Story Summary

This story summary provides a summary for telling the story of Cain and Abel to children and is also available as a downloadable PDF by clicking on the Get Activity button at the bottom of this page.

Bible Story: Cain and Abel

Bible Text: Genesis 4:1-16

Story Truth(s):

• Sin leads to sadness and separation from God.

Story: After Adam and Eve sinned, the Bible tells us in Genesis 4 that God gave Adam and Eve two sons. The first born, Cain, became a farmer. The second born, Abel, was a shepherd. Each son brought a sacrifice to the Lord. Cain brought some of his harvest, and Abel brought the firstborn of his flock. God saw the heart behind each offering, and God liked Abel’s sacrifice (and heart) more.

Cain was angry. He didn’t want God to tell him what to give. Cain wanted to decide for himself. His anger wasn’t good because it came from his pride and was selfish. Cain was jealous of Abel, and he was mad at God. The Lord warned Cain that his selfish anger was dangerous.

But, Cain didn’t listen to God. He was still angry. So, one day, when he was in the field with Abel, Cain let his anger rule, and he killed his brother. Immediately, Cain wanted to hide his sin and Abel’s death.

When God asked Cain where Abel was, Cain pretended not to know but God already knew that Cain killed Abel. Sin can’t be hidden from God because He knows all things.

When God saw Cain’s sin, He was sad because He knew sin’s cost. Cain’s sin had to be punished so God sent Cain away from His presence. Cain was sad to leave God.

Cain’s sin led to being sent away from enjoying fellowship with God.

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