Abel, last in appearance, but in truth the first in grace; as it also is at this day.  Who do so flutter it out as our ruffling, formal worshippers?  Alas, the good, the sincere, the humble, they seem to be least and last; but the conclusion of the tragedy will make manifest that the first is last and the last first.

“And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering.”  Herein are the true footsteps of grace discovered; the person must be the first in favor with God—–­the person first, the performance afterwards:  for though it be true among men that the gift makes way for the acceptance of the person, yet in the order of grace it is after another manner; for if the person be not first accepted, the offering must be abominable; for it is not a good work that makes a good man, but a good man makes a good work.  The fruit does not make a good tree, but a good tree bringeth forth good fruit.

Abel then presented his person and offering, as shrouding both by faith under the righteousness of Christ, which lay wrapped up in the promise; but Cain stands upon his own legs, and so presents his offering.  Abel therefore is accepted, both his person and offering, while Cain remains accursed.  This then makes the difference hetwixt Abel and his brother; Abel had faith, but Cain had none.  Abel’s faith covered him with Jesus Christ; therefore he stood righteous in his person before God.

There is a man proceeded against for life by the law and the sentence of death is in conclusion most justly and righteously passed upon him by the judge.  Suppose now, that after this, this man lives and is exalted to honor, enjoys great things, and is put into place of trust and power, and this by him that he has offended, even by him that did pass the sentence upon him.

What will all say, or what will they conclude, even upon the very first hearing of this story?  Will they not say, “Well, whoever he was that found himself wrapped up in this strange providence, must thank the mercy of a gracious prince; for all these things bespeak grace and favor?”

Forgiveness is according to the riches of God’s grace, wherein he has abounded towards us in all wisdom and prudence.  Grace can continue to pardon, favor, and save—–­from falls, in falls, and out of falls.  Grace can comfort, relieve, and help those that have hurt themselves; and grace can bring the unworthy to glory.  This the law cannot do; this man cannot do; this angels cannot do; this God cannot do, but only by the riches of his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.

A throne is the seat of majesty and greatness; it is not for things of an inferior quality to ascend or assume a throne.  Now, then, since this river of water of life proceeds from the throne, it intimates that in grace and mercy there is great majesty; for grace, as it proceeds, has a voice from the throne.  And indeed there is nothing in heaven or earth that can so awe the heart as the grace of God.  Hos.