In his thought-provoking blog post, The Beginning of Religious Violence—and of Restorative Justice and Forgiveness, Chris Seiple, Ph.D. a renowned strategist and leader in fostering global cohesion, explores the roots of religious conflict and the transformative power of forgiveness. Using the biblical story of Cain and Abel, Seiple reflects on humanity’s inclination toward violence and God’s enduring commitment to mercy and justice.
The First Worship and the First Murder
Seiple draws from the story in Genesis 4:3-8, where the first recorded act of worship tragically leads to the first murder. Cain, fueled by jealousy and pride, murders his brother Abel after God favors Abel’s offering. This act, Seiple argues, is a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked pride and the deceitfulness of the human heart, as described in Jeremiah 17:9.
Yet, even in the face of this grievous sin, Seiple highlights God’s response: justice tempered with mercy. While Cain is cursed and sent into exile, God marks him to protect him from vengeance, ensuring that Cain “leaves God’s presence but not God’s protection.” This, Seiple asserts, demonstrates God’s commitment to both truth and grace.
The Cycle of Sin and the Call to Forgiveness
Seiple examines the legacy of Cain through his descendant Lamech, who introduces further violence and arrogance. Lamech not only brags about killing but distorts God’s promise of protection to justify his actions, demonstrating how sin can escalate when divorced from accountability and reverence for God.
In contrast, Seiple emphasizes the restorative justice initiated by God through Seth, another son granted to Adam and Eve. Seth’s lineage calls upon the Lord, setting the stage for renewal and reconciliation through Noah and, eventually, Christ.
Gratitude for Restorative Justice
Drawing parallels between biblical events and modern challenges, Seiple calls on readers to embrace gratitude for God’s mercy and the opportunity to choose between right and wrong. He reminds us that, like Cain, humanity is flawed yet redeemable, and, like Lamech, we must confront our own tendencies toward arrogance and violence.
Seiple underscores Christ’s command to forgive “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22), a radical call to forgiveness that counters cycles of vengeance and hatred. “Be grateful that we can speak with God,” Seiple writes, “and that He will reply… if we but listen.”
A Timely Reflection
As global tensions rise and divisions deepen, Seiple’s reflections are a timely reminder of the need for restorative justice and the power of forgiveness. His message resonates not only within Christian communities but also across cultures and faiths seeking pathways to peace and reconciliation in a fractured world.
Through his work with The Sagestone Group and his leadership in global religious engagement, Seiple continues to champion initiatives that foster understanding and cohesion. His insights challenge individuals and societies to reflect on their own roles in perpetuating or healing divisions and to embrace a spirit of gratitude, justice, and reconciliation.