Cain, Abel and Seth (Genesis 4-5)

Today, we will take an exciting look at Cain and Abel and even ask why there is a genealogy of Seth, the third born from Eve. As we go through Genesis 4 and 5, we quickly come to realize that God has been saving people in the same way from the very beginning of Creation. Abel was saved not because of the quality of his sacrifice but the heart of faith that was behind it. Also, Cain did not offer his offering in faith and so God did not accept it. When Cain became angry and his face downcast, God actually asked him to follow the Law by ruling over sin in his own heart. Even here at the beginning of the Bible, we see two separate ways to come to God. One is through faith, which was Abel, the other is by ruling over sin. We also learn that Cain failed in that approach that no one can come to God on our own obedience. And so, he given over by sin, kills his brother, the righteous Abel. A sad story but one that preaches God’s mercy, love and forgiveness to all who come to Him by placing their faith in Him, not just lip service but genuine heartfelt relationship, that is what God wants and that is what God blesses.