8 JULY
The blood of a martyr
‘And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.’ Genesis 4:8
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Matthew 23:27–39
Think it not strange that the Lord did not protect Abel. By death he entered into life and had the honour to be the first martyr of the truth. Thus God confirmed the belief of a future state, otherwise it would appear a dangerous thing to please God. But it was not overlooked—his blood cried for vengeance [verse 10]. What a dreadful account will the wicked world have to make for the blood of believers they have shed. Yea, all their sufferings and all their tears shall be had in remembrance. When he maketh inquisition he will not forget. The Lord’s people are now, to an eye of sense, left destitute and exposed, as if everyone was at liberty to use them ill with impunity, but a change will soon take place. But there is blood that speaketh better things than the blood of Abel [Hebrews 12:24]. Jesus was slain like Abel, but his blood calls for pardon and mercy upon the poor sinners who spilt it, and upon those who by their wicked deeds have crucified him afresh. Only believe and you shall be saved [Luke 8:12].
FOR MEDITATION:
By Cain’s own hand, good Abel died,
Like him the way of grace we slight,
Because the LORD approved his faith;
And in our own devices trust;
And, when his blood for vengeance cried,
Call evil good, and darkness light,
He vainly thought to hide his death.
And hate and persecute the just.
Such was the wicked murderer Cain,
The saints, in every age and place,
And such by nature still are we,
Have found this history fulfilled;
Until by grace we’re born again,
The numbers all our thoughts surpass
Malicious, blind and proud, as he.
Of Abels, whom the Cains have killed.
Thus JESUS fell—but oh! his blood
Far better things than Abel’s cries:
Obtains his murderers’ peace with GOD,
And gains them mansions in the skies.
SERMON SERIES: GENESIS, NO. 12 [3/4], GENESIS 4:8
Milo 