John MacArthur returns to the familiar tale of Cain and Abel, using it to explore what it means to offer God a truly acceptable sacrifice. In a segment that continues his series “A Faith That Pleases God,” he turns to Hebrews 11:4 to ask why Abel’s offering was “better” and what that reveals about the kind of faith that pleases God.

What Makes a Sacrifice “Better”?

MacArthur points out that Abel’s offering was not merely a good animal; it was the firstlings of his flock, the fat portions that God specifically requested. He emphasizes that the value of the offering is secondary to the fact that Abel obeyed God’s exact instructions. By presenting the very best of what he had, Abel demonstrated a faith that trusted God’s word and acted on it.

Cain’s Rejection and the Warning of False Religion

In contrast, Cain’s offering reflected his own skill as a farmer rather than God’s command. MacArthur highlights the moment when God invites Cain to “do what is right,” offering him a chance to bring a proper sacrifice. Cain’s refusal shows a deeper problem: he denied the need for atonement and the reality of his own sin. The story is presented as the first example of “false religion,” a theme that echoes throughout the New Testament.

Faith, Acknowledgment of Sin, and the Need for Atonement

Central to the discussion is the idea that faith must include an acknowledgment of sin and a willingness to offer a sacrifice. MacArthur uses Abel’s example to illustrate how believers today must recognize that they, too, need a covering for their sins. The call is not to perform works for God’s approval but to trust in the sacrifice that has already been made.

The full program is available on the station’s website.