Biblical Context:
The account of God confronting Cain is found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 4:1-16. This narrative follows the account of Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden and introduces their sons, Cain and Abel. Cain, the firstborn, becomes a farmer, while Abel, his younger brother, is a shepherd. The confrontation between God and Cain arises after Cain's offering is rejected by God, leading to a series of events that culminate in the first murder recorded in the Bible.

The Offerings:
Genesis 4:3-5 describes the offerings made by Cain and Abel to the Lord. Cain brought "some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the LORD," while Abel brought "the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions." The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but He did not look with favor on Cain and his offering. The text does not explicitly state why God favored Abel's offering over Cain's, but it implies a difference in the heart and attitude behind the offerings. Hebrews 11:4 suggests that Abel's offering was made by faith, indicating a deeper spiritual sincerity and devotion.

God's Confrontation:
In Genesis 4:6-7, God directly addresses Cain's anger and despondency: "Then the LORD said to Cain, 'Why are you angry, and why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you refuse to do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.'" Here, God provides Cain with a warning and an opportunity for repentance. The imagery of sin "crouching at your door" suggests a predatory force that seeks to dominate Cain, yet God emphasizes Cain's responsibility to master it.

The Murder of Abel:
Despite God's warning, Cain invites Abel to the field, where he attacks and kills him (Genesis 4:8). This act of fratricide marks the first murder in human history and highlights the destructive power of unchecked sin. Cain's actions demonstrate a willful disregard for God's counsel and a surrender to sinful impulses.

God's Inquiry and Judgment:
Following Abel's murder, God confronts Cain with a question: "Where is your brother Abel?" (Genesis 4:9). Cain's infamous response, "I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?" reveals his defiance and lack of remorse. God then declares that Abel's blood cries out from the ground, signifying divine awareness of injustice and the sanctity of human life.

In Genesis 4:11-12, God pronounces judgment on Cain, cursing him from the ground that received his brother's blood. Cain is condemned to be a restless wanderer on the earth, and the ground will no longer yield its strength to him. This punishment reflects the severity of Cain's sin and the disruption of his relationship with both God and creation.

Cain's Response and God's Mercy:
Cain expresses despair over his punishment, fearing that he will be killed by others (Genesis 4:13-14). In response, God shows a measure of mercy by placing a mark on Cain to protect him from vengeance, declaring that anyone who kills Cain will suffer vengeance seven times over (Genesis 4:15). This act underscores God's justice tempered with mercy, even in the face of grave sin.

Theological Implications:
The confrontation between God and Cain serves as a profound exploration of sin, free will, and divine justice. It illustrates the consequences of sin and the importance of heeding God's warnings. The narrative also emphasizes personal responsibility and the potential for repentance, as God offers Cain a chance to do what is right. Cain's failure to master sin leads to devastating consequences, both for himself and for his family lineage. This account serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of sin and the necessity of aligning one's heart with God's will.