2B29
© Jeff Stacey | Last updated: 27 September 2016
2B29. God responded to Cain:
God showed mercy to Cain, but warned him of the dire consequences IF he did not obey God’s two basic requirements
2B29(title) God responded to Cain
God’s two responses to Cain are outlined below. These had both positive and negative aspects, which reflected Cain’s divided responses. God showed mercy to Cain, but warned him of the dire consequences IF he did not obey God’s two basic requirements.
Arrow 2B28 -> 2B29
This arrow indicates that God would hold Cain accountable for each of his responses. They had consequences in accord with God’s CONDITIONAL offer and warning to him.
Arrow 2B29 -> 2B24
This arrow highlights God’s compassionate concern and desire always for better things for all people. He mercifully gave Cain further opportunities to repent from his divided-heart commitment to God, obey His instructions and still gain His acceptance.
Cycle 3
2B29(a) In grace God gave Cain the opportunity to gain His acceptance, but with a warning
God had not favoured Cain or his offering and he had responded badly. Yet God did not reject, condemn or destroy Cain. Instead in grace He gave Cain the opportunity to rectify his situation Gen 4:6-7a. God called for wholehearted commitment to Him as the CONDITION for His acceptance. But He also gave Cain a stern warning of the consequences IF he refused Gen 4:7b.
Continue to Cycle 4 [2B24(a)(iv)]
Cycle 6
2B29(b) God showed mercy to Cain by sparing his life
Cain went away from God Gen 4:16a as a condemned murderer! Gen 4:11. Yet God’s sublime valuing of every person’s life was even shown three times by His mercy to Cain. Firstly, God allowed him to go on living Gen 4:15a,16b. Secondly, God declared sevenfold vengeance upon anyone who killed Cain Gen 4:15b. Thirdly, God placed some kind of “mark” on Cain that had the effect of preventing others from even attempting to kill him Gen 4:15c.