Abel is a man in the Old Testament we don’t think about very often. He is only mentioned in a handful of verses in Genesis 4, and then the story moves on to seemingly bigger and better things. But there is a lot we can learn from Abel.
In fact, when God gave us his “Hall of Faith” in Hebrews 11, Abel was the first one mentioned.
Hebrews 11:4 (CSB)
By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was approved as a righteous man, because God approved his gifts, and even though he is dead, he still speaks through his faith.
Through the life and faith of Abel, there are several things we are able to learn.
1. Not all sacrifices are equal.
Just because we give something to the Lord doesn’t mean he will accept or regard it. Cain and Abel both gave sacrifices, but Hebrews teaches us that Abel’s offering was “better” than Cain’s. Genesis tells us that God regarded Abel’s sacrifice, but not Cain’s.
2. Our faith is shown through our sacrifice.
While nobody can see another person’s heart, the way we offer sacrifice to the Lord reveals what is in it. According to Genesis, Abel’s offering was the first and best that he had. He didn’t offer the scraps that were left over at the end. Why did he offer his best? Because he really believed that God was worthy of it. Our sacrifice doesn’t save us or create faith, but it does reflect the faith (or lack of faith) that is in our hearts. That’s why the Apostle James was able to say this:
James 2:17 (CSB)
…faith, if it does not have works, is dead by itself.
3. Our faith outlives us.
Do you want your impact and legacy to last beyond your life? The answer isn’t to put your name on a building or to leave a financial inheritance (though I’m sure many would appreciate that!) Both buildings and money will eventually disappear. But do you know what will stand the test of time? The legacy of your faith. Hebrews says that though Abel was dead that he still speaks through his faith. Even though his life ended near the beginning of human history, his faith still speaks today.
There are many ways we give sacrifice to the Lord today. Whether that is giving financially to the church, serving others, giving of our time, there are many ways we give to the Lord. But unless that sacrifice comes from a place of faith, the Lord does not regard it. The prophet Samuel, when speaking to King Saul about this very issue, said it best:
1 Samuel 15:22 (CSB)
Does the Lord take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? Look: to obey is better than sacrifice, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams.