Purposeless Prosperity, Genesis 4:17-24

GenesisProsperity
Written By Ben Smith
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Purposeless Prosperity (Genesis 4:17-24)

In this message, Pastor Ben Smith examines the lineage of Cain to reveal how worldly success—cities built, families expanded, and achievements celebrated—can still be empty when lived outside the presence of God. Through the examples of Cain and Lamech, Scripture warns us of two dangers: the busyness of building for nothing and the foolish confidence that comes from relying on human strength rather than God’s grace. This sermon challenges believers to evaluate the pursuits that consume their energy and to consider whether those pursuits draw them toward Christ or distract them from Him. Ultimately, “Purposeless Prosperity” calls us to reject the illusion of fulfillment apart from God and to seek the lasting joy found only in a right relationship with Him. Listen now and be encouraged to pursue what truly matters.

Find Out More:

Ben Smith is the pastor of Central Baptist Church, Waycross, GA.

Additional podcasts, books, and downloadable PDFs of Pastor Ben’s sermon outlines and manuscripts are available at http://bensmithsr.org.

You can find information about Central Baptist Church at cbcwaycross.org.

This sermon was originally preached on 11/16/2025.

Purposeless Prosperity, Genesis 4:17–24 Pulpit notes and outline handouts - PDF

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Ben Smith

Originally from Columbus, GA, pastor Ben Smith has served churches in Texas, South Carolina, and Georgia. Ben and his wife Dana make their home in Waycross, GA, where Ben has pastored Central Baptist Church since 2012.

Pastor Ben preaches each Sunday at Central Baptist. An audio podcast of his sermons is published weekly. Pastor Ben also hosts the podcast View From the Pulpit, dedicated to helping the church recover an understanding of expository preaching.

https://bensmithsr.org
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Sin’s Ruinous Rule, Genesis 4:8-16