An Acceptable Offering

The Journey | An Acceptable Offering
November 7, 2021
Genesis 4:1-8
Study Questions

1. Read Genesis 4:1-3. Identify the responsibilities that were given to Cain and Abel.

2. What is behind the meaning of ‘first fruits’? (See also Leviticus 27:32.) What does the practice of ‘first fruits’ look like in light of how you approach giving your offering(s) to the Lord? Do you find this practice easy or difficult–why or why not?

3. What was the Lord’s reaction to the offerings of Cain and Abel? Why did He have regard for Abel’s offering, but reject Cain’s? (See Genesis 4:4b-5a.) The heart issue behind our offerings (physical or material) matters deeply. Can you identify with Cain–has there ever been a time you gave with wrong motives (for example from pride, obligation, maybe an attempt to manipulate the Lord)? Think of other misled motives and discuss your experiences. Why would the Lord not accept them as a pleasing offering?

4. According to Hebrews 11:4-6, why was Abel considered "righteous"? What does this teach you in light of presenting your gifts to the Lord?

5. Alternatively, what lesson do we learn from Cain? What was the deeper reason why God did not accept his offering? How is this evidenced by Cain’s response to this rejection of his offering (see Genesis 4:5b)? Why was this his response? (See also 1 John 3:12.)

6. How has this study helped you in presenting your tithes and offerings to the Lord? How might this change the reason you serve and love others in Christ’s name this week?