You be Abel or Be Cain ... in faith (2 Religions!)

DM FBI May 10, 2025 in PreachTheWord 79 Subscribers Subscribe

338 Views
0 Stars
0 E-mailed

265 Visits
5 Comments
0 Bookmarks

a powerful theme that many theologians and preachers have drawn from Genesis 4—the contrast between Abel and Cain as symbolic of two fundamental approaches to God. This idea is sometimes framed as "two religions in the world": one based on faith and obedience (Abel) and the other on works and self-righteousness (Cain).

Genesis 4 – A Brief Overview:
Abel brings a blood sacrifice—the best of his flock—acknowledging dependence on God's grace.

Cain brings an offering from the fruit of the ground, which may have reflected human effort without faith or regard for God's command.

God accepts Abel’s offering but rejects Cain’s.

Cain grows angry and kills Abel.

Two “Religions” Symbolized:
Abel’s Way (Faith-Based):

Trusts in God’s provision.

Approaches God with humility and obedience.

Foreshadows Christ's atoning sacrifice.

Cain’s Way (Works-Based):

Relies on self-effort or personal merit.

Lacks faith and a heart aligned with God.

Represents human pride and rebellion.

This contrast is echoed in the New Testament too:

Hebrews 11:4 – “By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain…”

1 John 3:12 – “We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one…”

The Message:
Scott Thies (the founder of ABCD, as you mention) appears to be emphasizing that true salvation comes through God's way, not man’s way. Abel represents a life aligned with God's will, while Cain’s path—though religious in appearance—misses the mark because it stems from pride and lacks true repentance.

The implication? Each person must ask: Am I trusting in God's provision through Jesus Christ, or am I trying to earn my way to God?