GENESIS 4-5: Dark Days from Adam to Noah
January 9th Reading (Genesis Challenge) | Yesterday’s Reading
These are dark days between Adam and Noah. As you read through Genesis 4-5, it will be hard to miss the main theme: the contrast between the ungodly line of Cain and the godly line of Seth (after Abel’s murder).
Exploring the details within this main theme involve thinking about:
- Why Abel’s offering to the Lord was approved, while Cain’s was rejected
- The growing violence and godlessness spread by Cain’s descendants
- The careful list of fathers and sons down to Noah
The Remnants
Also note that early Genesis can be seen as God preserving a series of remnants within the deepening wickedness of the human race: Adam sins, then God works through Abel; Abel is murdered, then God raises up Seth; Seth’s line is eventually compromised, so God preserves Noah through the judgment of the Flood. Later, we’ll see that Noah’s line becomes corrupted as well, leading to the choosing of Abraham. How does the preserving of remnants in Genesis apply to how deals with people today?
For Your Genesis Challenge Journal
As you work your way through this chapter, use these four questions as guides for discovery and personal growth:
- Find at least one new fact.
- Discover at least one cultural difference between times in Genesis and our own culture.
- Pinpoint any faith principles you see.
- Select one attitude, behavior, or action that you want to apply in your own life.
You will find it helpful to keep a journal or log to record your thoughts, questions, and findings. Please feel free to share what you are learning on the Aspect Ministries Facebook page.