Life Outside the Garden

Outline the literary design of Genesis 4, noting the significant themes carried forward from chapter 3.

Examine clues in the text to understand what separates the offerings of Cain and Abel, and see what happens when God’s favor becomes the cause for jealousy and danger.

Trace the literary similarities between Cain’s test and his parents’ in the previous chapter. Follow the story as the next generation mirrors the failures of their parents.

Outline the cycle of rebellion as bloodshed intensifies, and see how Lemek twists God’s mercy into a license to abuse others.

Examine key features of the genealogy in Genesis 5. Learn how genealogies functioned in the ancient Near East and how the biblical authors use this genealogy to make a theological statement.