Of the Mercy-seate] This was the covering of the Arke, made of pure gold; and not distinct from the Arke, but placed close unto it; and God sitting as it were, upon the wings of the Cherubims, (which made the representation of a seat) on the Arke below it. This narrow seate was a figure of Christ: the Word signifieth a Covering: the meaning is, mans iniquitie being covered by Christs merits, God is mercifull unto him, Psalms 32:1. and therefore it is called the Propitiatoire, and Christ a propitiation for mans sinnes, 1 John 2:2. because of the favour and mercy communicated to men, through his merit: and this was placed betwixt the Tables of the Law, and the Majestie of God appearing betweene the Cherubims, vers. 22. to note that Christ stands betweene God and the rigour of the Law, in our stead, and for our sakes, that God might looke upon the Law through him, as fulfilled by him for our sakes and on our behalfe.