Abel was the second child born into the world but was the first one to obey God. All we know about this man is that his parents were Adam and Eve, and he was a shepherd, he presented pleasing sacrifices to God, and his short life ended at the hands of his jealous older brother, Cain.
The story of Abel unfolds in the book of Genesis, right after the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. Both Abel and his brother Cain presented offerings to God, but it was Abel’s offering that found favor in the eyes of the Lord. His act of faith is a testament to the importance of offering to God with a sincere heart.
Cain’s jealousy towards Abel’s favor with God led to a tragic outcome. This episode underscores the biblical principle that righteousness often faces opposition and jealousy from the world. Abel’s story serves as a stark reminder that living a righteous life may invite persecution, but ultimately, God rewards the faithful.
After Cain murdered his brother Abel, God confronted him, saying, “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to me from the ground” (Genesis 4:10 ESV). This phrase is a powerful reminder that injustice and violence do not go unnoticed by God. Despite his tragic end, Abel’s legacy endures. He is mentioned in the “Hall of Faith” in Hebrews 11:4, which highlights the importance of faith in pleasing God. Abel’s example continues to inspire believers to walk in faith and righteousness.
The Bible doesn’t tell us why God liked Abel’s gift and disliked Cain’s, but both Cain and Abel knew what God expected. Only Abel obeyed. The Bible is filled with God’s general guidelines and expectations for our lives. It is also filled with more specific directions. Like Abel, we must obey regardless of the cost and trust God to make things right.
Strengths and Accomplishments
- First member of the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11
- First shepherd
- First martyr for truth (Matthew 23:35)
Lessons From His Life
- God hears those who come to him
- God recognizes the innocent person and sooner or later punishes the guilty
Vital Statistics for Abel
Key Verse for Abel
“By faith, Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith, he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith, he still speaks, even though he is dead” (Hebrews 11:4)
Abel’s story is told in Genesis 4:1-8. He is also mentioned in Matthew 23:35, Luke 11:51; Hebrews 11:4 and 12:24
Click here to print or download the Scripture character study on “Abel – Offered A Better Sacrifice“
