This study is part of our series of verse by verse studies of Genesis, the 1st book in the Bible. Taught by our pastor, Simeon Forder, at our Sunday morning service on the 6th August 2023.

About this book

Genesis is the first book in the Bible, and in its more than 1500 verses, there are over 50 prophecies, 100+ commands, over 70 promises, and almost 100 distinct messages from God. As well as recording the firsts of so many things — including the first marriage, sin, child, murder, death, laughs, tears — this book also explains God’s established order in all things; from creation to Israel, marriage to tithing, and all before the law is even mentioned. But ultimately, this book points to Jesus as our Saviour, not only in obvious ways, but in its smaller details too.

About this study

In Genesis chapter three, we see the root of sin – but here in chapter 4 we see the fruit of sin. That is, what started with one simple act of disobedience spiralled very quickly into much wickedness. And this should be a stark warning to us, that so-called small sins are anything but small. For sin has a tendency to reproduce, and grow, much like a cancer. And if left unchecked it will destroy a man. Or woman. Or family. Or church. Or society.

Application questions

• Are you trying to approach God through your own efforts, or by faith alone?
• Are you walking in the flesh, or in the Spirit?
• Do you yearn for God’s presence, or have you walked away from it?