"And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.” ~Hebrews 11:4

“By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.” ~Hebrews 11:4

Cain was the first human ever conceived, the firstborn of Adam and Eve; Abel was his younger brother. As with all siblings, there was some rivalry going on. Abel must have been the favorite because Cain was very jealous of him - it culminated in a showdown of offerings to God. Abel presented a sacrifice of perfect first lambs and Cain offered the fruit of his labor. Literally. A collection of fruit from his harvest - something that he worked for. A representation of grace versus works.

The scriptures tell us that God accepted Abel’s offering and rejected Cain’s. It had nothing to do with what was offered, but the intention from whom it was given. Cain seemed to be harsh and embittered, indicating a stony heart. He believed in God - how could he not? God talked to him - they bantered like close acquaintances. But Cain seemed to have a love/hate relationship with God. Whereas Abel must have had a loving one - one full of faith and trust. And hope!

I think that Abel was already looking for the Messiah promised to his parents. It was no coincidence that he chose a perfect lamb - a forecast of Messiah Himself - and he was murdered for it.

John tells us that Cain let sin rule him.

1 John 3:12  “Don't be like Cain, who belonged to the devil and murdered his own brother. Why did he murder him? He did it because his brother was good, and he was evil.”

But God still cared for and protected Cain. If Cain would have repented, God would have welcomed him “home” like the prodigal son. It is never too late. You are His child forever and ever and ever.

Written by: Bonnie Chovanec, 2025