Overview: What is “bad fruit”? Often, when the word “fruit” is used, the person is talking about produce; the outgrowth of something else. Normally, when such language is used, we are referring to plant life. However, this is not always the case. Many things produce outgrowth. For example, if a student studies hard for a test, they are more likely to produce a good grade. And, if a musician spends hours crafting his musical skills, he or she will be able to produce a fine arrangement of music.

Directions: Today, we will examine four “fruits” produced from the likeness of man. We will discover, not only the inheritance of sin in the next generation, but also the negative impact it has on both faith and family. Note: Not all "fruit" is good. Thus, the title, "Bad Fruit".

The four different kinds of births in Scripture:

1. Dust birth
2. Rib birth
3. Virgin birth
4. Natural birth

When you fall short:

1. Do not give up on God.
2. Do not give up on others.
3. Do not give up on yourself.

The contrasts of the two offerings:

1. Cain’s offering was based on religious obligation, but Abel’s offering was based on faithful obedience.
2. Cain’s offering was convenient, but Abel’s offering required sacrifice.
3. Cain’s offering was given freely, but Abel’s offering was given faithfully. In other words, a faithful response to God, is not based on what we freely give but on what is faithfully expected of us.
4. Cain’s offering reflected his own work, but Abel’s offering reflected the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.
5. Cain’s offering had earlier been cursed, but Abel’s offering represented God’s cure for the curse.

Five responses to sin:

1. We pretend it did not happen.
2. We make excuses.
3. We celebrate our wrongdoing.
4. We try to undo what we have done.
5. We repent of our sin and rely on God’s mercy and grace.

Only God can...

1. Change your heart.
2. Forgive your sins.
3. Give you a new beginning.

Destination: Cain allowed sin to take hold of him, and ultimately, drive him down a painful road. Not only did this result in the murder of his brother, but it also drove a wedge between him and God, and between him and his family. As stated, sin always leads you to places you do not want to go. Guard your heart! Do not let sin take a stronghold on you like it did with Cain.

Reflection: Use the private notes section below or your personal journal to put the message of these verses into your own words so you can communicate them with others.

Your voice matters! (see Mark 16:15)