Introduction: East of Eden

Walkthrough: Why No Regard for Cain?

The Crouching Sin (Gen 4:7)

Conclusion:  The Better Word (Hebrews 12:24)

Small Group Discussion Questions

Have you ever envied someone who seemed more blessed or accepted by God (like Abel)? How did that envy affect your heart or your relationship with them?

Cain asked, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” What’s meant by this? In what ways do we still ask that question today, avoiding responsibility for the people around us and our own personal responsibility in our sin? How is this similar to the blame-shifting of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3?  

Steinbeck’s word was “Timshel”—“Thou mayest” (you might be able to overcome, Gen. 4:7) from his novel “East of Eden”, which teaches about the “possibility” of overcoming sin. The gospel’s word is stronger: because of Jesus, you will overcome, and you are more than conquerors. How does that difference give you hope when you feel stuck in old patterns?

The sermon contrasts the blood of Abel (crying “Vengeance!”) with the blood of Jesus (crying “Forgiven!”). Which voice feels louder in your life right now—accusation or grace? Why?

John Owen said, “Be killing sin, or it will be killing you.” What is one practical way you can “kill” a crouching sin this week instead of feeding it? What Spirit-empowered Spiritual disciplines are vital in this transformation?