glory with the world: Cain with them is the profitable son; Abel is
of no credit with them, neither see they form or comeliness in him;
he is the melancholy or lowering child whose countenance spoils the
mirth of the world. "The heart of the wise is in the house of
mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth."

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.