Genesis 4:17-24 - Polygamy and the Rise of a Godless Civilization.

In this sermon from Genesis 4:17–24, we trace the lineage of Cain and witness the rise of a civilization built apart from God. What begins with Cain’s rebellion against divine judgment quickly escalates into cultural defiance, the perversion of marriage through polygamy, and an unchecked glorification of violence. Through the example of Lamech, Scripture shows us that sin never remains stagnant—it always intensifies when left unrestrained by repentance and the gospel. The sermon addresses common grace, exposing the error of confusing God’s patience and gifts with approval of sin. It also explains why polygamy, though tolerated in certain periods of redemptive history, stands in direct opposition to God’s one-flesh design for marriage and ultimately distorts the gospel itself. As Cain’s line descends further into pride and bloodshed, we are reminded that cultures do not morally evolve without Christ—they devolve. This passage sets the stage for the coming flood, highlighting humanity’s growing need for redemption and the promise of God’s intervention. Only the gospel of Jesus Christ reverses the effects of the fall and brings true order, life, and hope to a fallen world.