1. Sin spreads yet God’s mercy continues
Sources: Genesis 4: 1-16
Genesis 6-9: 17
Genesis 11:1-9
Human Experiences: habitual pattern of human interaction
Cain and Abel
Elements: seeming conflict between farmer and sheepherder, God favoring the youngest, Israel’s
belief that human sin leads to punishment but also compassionate mercy, and concept of
brother’s keeper.
Cain = Farmer (competitive)
Abel = Sheepherder (pure intentions)
Messages:
1) God’s choice is free
2) There is nothing that we can do to force God
3) The moment we turn against God, it leads us to turn against others as well
4) God does not reject us even if we sin; it is us who reject God.
5) We are to take care of one another
6) God continues to protect us even if we fail to follow Him.
Cain’s Sin
Cause of Sin
Sin
Effects
Note of hope
Envy, destructive aggressiveness
Murder of one’s brother; fratitude
Restless wanderer/ fugitive, suffering soil will
bear thorns and thistles
God plays a mark/ reminder; 7x vengeance