Thursday, April 28, 2005
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
#1753-To Wenceslaus Link in Nuernberg
To the worthy man, Wenceslaus Link, the faithful servant of Christ in Nuernberg, his Superior.
Grace and peace in Christ! I have received two letters from you, my dear Wenceslaus, in which you report news. I, however, have nothing new to return to you except the evil report that in Friesland the false teaching of the Sacramentarians rules. And the Graf (Enno of Friesland) who resisted valiantly previously has broken down and now permits anyone to teach anything. It seems to me that God is punishing the unthankfulness of the world and that again He (repays) by returning that unthankfulness in a backwards way. Yet He will have mercy on us,Amen.
That you asked recently: whether it is true that we have advised that it is permissible to offer resistance to the Emperor and you indicate that this has been reported to you by letter-we in no way, in fact, have advised this. There are however several who say that the theologians should not be asked about this for it is a matter for the jurists who say that it is allowed so on my part I say: I advise as a theologian; if, however, the jurists teach that according to their laws it is permitted I would grant that they may use their laws; they must see to that. If the Emperor in his laws has ordered that in these cases there may be reistance he must suffer under the law which he has given; only I do not want to judge over or beyond this law but I will stay with my theology.
I perhaps should well consider it proper as it is the truth that the Prince as Prince is a worldly person and as such does what he does not as a Christian who is neither a Prince nor yet a man or any sort of person like there is in the world. If he as a Prince is free to exercise resistance to the Emperor that should be left to the judgment of the conscience of every man. For the Christian nothing is ever free as he has died to the world. This much (I) have dwelt with herein and this much you can indicate to Herr Lazarus laying out my opinion though I see that no matter how we cry out their determination is so fixed that they may offer resistancee and will in no way moderate their opinion that thus my preaching is in vain that God will so assist us so that no resistance is necessary; as He in fact has assisted us so that that the Diet could accomplish nothing and they have undertaken nothing to this present day. Would that God would continue to do the same! However, faith is not everyone's thing. Yet, I take comfort in this that there is less sin and that they are on a surer ground when they make this a matter of citizen-rights, though they do not accept our advice, than when they operate compeltely against conscience and with a determined will against Scripture. Meanwhile they believe that they do not act contrary to Scripture if they are not acting against their civil laws. "Thus I let them do what they do.", I am free.
Greet Herr Spengler and our Friend. The sickness of the head which came on through the old wine of Coburg is not yet by the beer of Wittenberg alleviated. Therefore I am forced to do little work and to give the head a Sabbath Day of rest which for me is a difficult leisure and very unacceptable to the printers. I have completed the Explanation (several words missing here) and the Psalter is done over for the last time because we did not have any copies (of the previous effort) at hand. We are devoting our efforts not to make David better than before but only that he speaks a plainer German by which we have given in our translation the slanders opportunity to vent and sharpen their raging hate but yet not be satiated. Greet your Treasure (several words missing probable "your wife and children"). My Lord (Herrin=Kaethe) greets you. Wittenberg on January 15,1531. Martin Luther.
Grace and peace in Christ! I have received two letters from you, my dear Wenceslaus, in which you report news. I, however, have nothing new to return to you except the evil report that in Friesland the false teaching of the Sacramentarians rules. And the Graf (Enno of Friesland) who resisted valiantly previously has broken down and now permits anyone to teach anything. It seems to me that God is punishing the unthankfulness of the world and that again He (repays) by returning that unthankfulness in a backwards way. Yet He will have mercy on us,Amen.
That you asked recently: whether it is true that we have advised that it is permissible to offer resistance to the Emperor and you indicate that this has been reported to you by letter-we in no way, in fact, have advised this. There are however several who say that the theologians should not be asked about this for it is a matter for the jurists who say that it is allowed so on my part I say: I advise as a theologian; if, however, the jurists teach that according to their laws it is permitted I would grant that they may use their laws; they must see to that. If the Emperor in his laws has ordered that in these cases there may be reistance he must suffer under the law which he has given; only I do not want to judge over or beyond this law but I will stay with my theology.
I perhaps should well consider it proper as it is the truth that the Prince as Prince is a worldly person and as such does what he does not as a Christian who is neither a Prince nor yet a man or any sort of person like there is in the world. If he as a Prince is free to exercise resistance to the Emperor that should be left to the judgment of the conscience of every man. For the Christian nothing is ever free as he has died to the world. This much (I) have dwelt with herein and this much you can indicate to Herr Lazarus laying out my opinion though I see that no matter how we cry out their determination is so fixed that they may offer resistancee and will in no way moderate their opinion that thus my preaching is in vain that God will so assist us so that no resistance is necessary; as He in fact has assisted us so that that the Diet could accomplish nothing and they have undertaken nothing to this present day. Would that God would continue to do the same! However, faith is not everyone's thing. Yet, I take comfort in this that there is less sin and that they are on a surer ground when they make this a matter of citizen-rights, though they do not accept our advice, than when they operate compeltely against conscience and with a determined will against Scripture. Meanwhile they believe that they do not act contrary to Scripture if they are not acting against their civil laws. "Thus I let them do what they do.", I am free.
Greet Herr Spengler and our Friend. The sickness of the head which came on through the old wine of Coburg is not yet by the beer of Wittenberg alleviated. Therefore I am forced to do little work and to give the head a Sabbath Day of rest which for me is a difficult leisure and very unacceptable to the printers. I have completed the Explanation (several words missing here) and the Psalter is done over for the last time because we did not have any copies (of the previous effort) at hand. We are devoting our efforts not to make David better than before but only that he speaks a plainer German by which we have given in our translation the slanders opportunity to vent and sharpen their raging hate but yet not be satiated. Greet your Treasure (several words missing probable "your wife and children"). My Lord (Herrin=Kaethe) greets you. Wittenberg on January 15,1531. Martin Luther.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
#1752-To Lazarus Spengler in Nuernberg
To the honorable and forward-looking Herr Lazarus Spengler, syndico of the city of Nuernberg, my favored Herr and Friend.
Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable, progressive, dear Herr and Friend! Laurentius Strauch has appealed to me that as he now receives a small stipend from the honorable Council in Nuernberg that I would request for him whether he might have something more as his stipend will expire on Easter. I have so often wearied the dear lords at Nuernberg that I am almost shy to request something further. Since you are the one who otherwise steps out of many puddles I have good confidence to put this on you also; in a completely friendly way I request that you would represent my person and if it can be done to be helpful and beneficial to the above-named Strauch
as you know well how to do this or leave it undone. Herewith be to God commended. In a hurry and weak more at another time as you desire. On the 15th or January 1531. Mart.Luther.
NOTE: lassen may mean several things - like permit, allowing, or doing nothing, I think. I have chosen the latter as the first part is covered "you know how to do this" and so perhaps "not doing it" is meant in the second half of the sentence. Some of you experts might have a more enlightened translation.
Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable, progressive, dear Herr and Friend! Laurentius Strauch has appealed to me that as he now receives a small stipend from the honorable Council in Nuernberg that I would request for him whether he might have something more as his stipend will expire on Easter. I have so often wearied the dear lords at Nuernberg that I am almost shy to request something further. Since you are the one who otherwise steps out of many puddles I have good confidence to put this on you also; in a completely friendly way I request that you would represent my person and if it can be done to be helpful and beneficial to the above-named Strauch
as you know well how to do this or leave it undone. Herewith be to God commended. In a hurry and weak more at another time as you desire. On the 15th or January 1531. Mart.Luther.
NOTE: lassen may mean several things - like permit, allowing, or doing nothing, I think. I have chosen the latter as the first part is covered "you know how to do this" and so perhaps "not doing it" is meant in the second half of the sentence. Some of you experts might have a more enlightened translation.
Saturday, April 23, 2005
#1750-To Johann Purgolt, mayor in Eisenach
Grace and peace. Dear Herr and Friend! I have written to your son-in-law (Heinrich Scholl-see #1749) that it is the opinion of Philip and myself that it is important for him to stay at the school though they have previously sought another from us which we have postponed and want to do so further. Regarding the permission to brew (Bierloos) you should negotiate this with the authority but we have not denied it to him; if the envy does not die out with time your son-in-law might well be permitted to go elsewhere and this I would be glad to help in and advise as I am able. Herwith, be commended to God, Amen. 12 January 1531. Martinus Luther.
#1749-To Heinrich Scholl, school-mster in Eisenach
to the learned and blessed man, Heinrich Scholl, teacher of the youth in Eisenach, his friend.
Grace and peace in the LOrd! I, my dear Heinrich, recognze well that it is the envy of your citizenx, or rather that of the devil who thus afflict you. However, I maintain that as the matter has been postponed this year and drawn out so it will continue and be even further drawn out. They have not achieved anything with us through their appeal and neither will they bring about anything that will cause us to send another there. Also Philip does not think that another should take your place but rather you should continue. For this reason you should stay and carry on with your office. Further regarding your license to brew (Bierloos-beer), which is a worldly matter, you may continue to exercise your right. If they continue to trouble you you may complain to our Prince and, if you wish, you may add at the same time that it is the opinion of Philip and myself that you are a sufficiently gifted teacher for the school and meanwhile perhaps the envy could moderate. If they absolutely want to continue it may be considered that you should yield and change your place. We will cooperate as much as we can thereto. Christ grant that that will not be necessary; in Him be it well with you. The 12 of January 1531. Martin Luther.
NOTES: After 6 years of faithfully holding the school-office, Scholl had to leave in June of 1532.
Maybe the brew was bad. Heard that Marktl, the hometown of Benedict XVI,put out a Pope beer, with a free bottle for every visitor.
Grace and peace in the LOrd! I, my dear Heinrich, recognze well that it is the envy of your citizenx, or rather that of the devil who thus afflict you. However, I maintain that as the matter has been postponed this year and drawn out so it will continue and be even further drawn out. They have not achieved anything with us through their appeal and neither will they bring about anything that will cause us to send another there. Also Philip does not think that another should take your place but rather you should continue. For this reason you should stay and carry on with your office. Further regarding your license to brew (Bierloos-beer), which is a worldly matter, you may continue to exercise your right. If they continue to trouble you you may complain to our Prince and, if you wish, you may add at the same time that it is the opinion of Philip and myself that you are a sufficiently gifted teacher for the school and meanwhile perhaps the envy could moderate. If they absolutely want to continue it may be considered that you should yield and change your place. We will cooperate as much as we can thereto. Christ grant that that will not be necessary; in Him be it well with you. The 12 of January 1531. Martin Luther.
NOTES: After 6 years of faithfully holding the school-office, Scholl had to leave in June of 1532.
Maybe the brew was bad. Heard that Marktl, the hometown of Benedict XVI,put out a Pope beer, with a free bottle for every visitor.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
#1748-To Johann Sutel, Pastor in Goettingen
To the highly-honorable man, Herr Master Johann Sutel, the faithful servant of God in Goettingen, his brother in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in Christ Jesus! See, coming there is a preacher, dear brother, whom I have previously promised,with the name of Johann Birnstiel; the second will follow in a short time. He is hindered by his farming-existence by which he has been previously sustained. He could only with great difficulty come away before his goods are sold from which he can only slowly get himself free from. I plead with and with all that you urge the cause of Christ harmoniously and that in matters that do not violate the faith do not cast aside any questions. You know that the crude rabble will sieze every opportunity to despise the Word. And though no ceremony is necessary for salvation they are useful to stimulate obtuse dispositions. I am speaking chiefly about the ceremonies of the Mass and the altars,garments,lights and this sort of incidentals; if these cannot be done away with they remain as we are doing here in Wittenberg. If they have been abolished I would wish that they would slowly be re-introduced yet so that the Word prevails through which we can free consciences. These benefit children and the simple; whom one must also serve. Still the band of completeness, love, must rule and peace triumph; Christ grant this Who has called us, Amen. In Him be it right well with you and pray for me. Wittenberg on the 11th of January 1531. Martin Luther.
You will cooperate that M.Philip is reimbursed for travel expenses which is equitable.
NOTES: Sutel was born in 1504 in Altenmorsch, studied in Erfurt, was rector in Melsungen, came to Goettingen on the recommendation of the Landgraf of Hesse and served at Nicoali and Johann-churches there starting in 1530. In 1542 he was called to Schweinfurt but returned to Goettingen at the start of the Schmalkald war in 1547 briefly and then to Allendorf and back to Goettingen at St. Albans-found at Nordheim in 1555 and died in August of 1575.
Melanchton had helped set up things in Goettingen.
Grace and peace in Christ Jesus! See, coming there is a preacher, dear brother, whom I have previously promised,with the name of Johann Birnstiel; the second will follow in a short time. He is hindered by his farming-existence by which he has been previously sustained. He could only with great difficulty come away before his goods are sold from which he can only slowly get himself free from. I plead with and with all that you urge the cause of Christ harmoniously and that in matters that do not violate the faith do not cast aside any questions. You know that the crude rabble will sieze every opportunity to despise the Word. And though no ceremony is necessary for salvation they are useful to stimulate obtuse dispositions. I am speaking chiefly about the ceremonies of the Mass and the altars,garments,lights and this sort of incidentals; if these cannot be done away with they remain as we are doing here in Wittenberg. If they have been abolished I would wish that they would slowly be re-introduced yet so that the Word prevails through which we can free consciences. These benefit children and the simple; whom one must also serve. Still the band of completeness, love, must rule and peace triumph; Christ grant this Who has called us, Amen. In Him be it right well with you and pray for me. Wittenberg on the 11th of January 1531. Martin Luther.
You will cooperate that M.Philip is reimbursed for travel expenses which is equitable.
NOTES: Sutel was born in 1504 in Altenmorsch, studied in Erfurt, was rector in Melsungen, came to Goettingen on the recommendation of the Landgraf of Hesse and served at Nicoali and Johann-churches there starting in 1530. In 1542 he was called to Schweinfurt but returned to Goettingen at the start of the Schmalkald war in 1547 briefly and then to Allendorf and back to Goettingen at St. Albans-found at Nordheim in 1555 and died in August of 1575.
Melanchton had helped set up things in Goettingen.
Saturday, April 16, 2005
#1747-To the Council in Goettingen
To the honorable and wise Mayor and Council in Goettingen, my favored lords and friends.
Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable, wise, dear lords and friends! So here comes the preacher whom I recently announced to you, Ew.W. (you wise ones), and his name is Johann Bernstiel. And although he is not entirely fluent in the lower German (saechischer can mean both high and low German but see following) I am hoping that he will be acceptable as in Braunschweig high German (Oberlandische Sprach) was tolerated. The other one, Licentiat Basilus, will soon follow. He has field-work and cattle which are not so easily sold and for which he must be present and difficult to bring along. Head-pastors here are scarce (duenne?). The harvest is great but the laborers are few; that is something you should also consider. I hope, however, Ew.W.(your wisdom) will have two learned and skilled men in them; Mr. Basilius can do well both low German and high. I commend (them) to your wisdom (Ew.W.) with all confidence.I request that you compensate them for the journey; for the time I have loaned them something. God grant that they will bring forth much fruit among you to the praise and glory of God and to the blessedness of all, Amen. In Wittenberg on the 11th of January 1531. Martin Luther.
NOTES: Birnstiel made it as pastor of the Marienkirche but only until July 27 likely because of the language problems. He was said to speak plainly at times but then very softly so that he could not be understood. He was in Coburg in 1542 and died in 1559. Birnstiel did receive some travel funds for himself and his wife and a departure gift.
Basilius Schumann never made it to Goettingen.
ML would understand well the frustrations of being a Circuit Counselor or District President, yes?
Maybe I should check with Luther Index on the languages. St. Louis Editors say it was "hochfrankische Sprach" for "oberlandische".
Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable, wise, dear lords and friends! So here comes the preacher whom I recently announced to you, Ew.W. (you wise ones), and his name is Johann Bernstiel. And although he is not entirely fluent in the lower German (saechischer can mean both high and low German but see following) I am hoping that he will be acceptable as in Braunschweig high German (Oberlandische Sprach) was tolerated. The other one, Licentiat Basilus, will soon follow. He has field-work and cattle which are not so easily sold and for which he must be present and difficult to bring along. Head-pastors here are scarce (duenne?). The harvest is great but the laborers are few; that is something you should also consider. I hope, however, Ew.W.(your wisdom) will have two learned and skilled men in them; Mr. Basilius can do well both low German and high. I commend (them) to your wisdom (Ew.W.) with all confidence.I request that you compensate them for the journey; for the time I have loaned them something. God grant that they will bring forth much fruit among you to the praise and glory of God and to the blessedness of all, Amen. In Wittenberg on the 11th of January 1531. Martin Luther.
NOTES: Birnstiel made it as pastor of the Marienkirche but only until July 27 likely because of the language problems. He was said to speak plainly at times but then very softly so that he could not be understood. He was in Coburg in 1542 and died in 1559. Birnstiel did receive some travel funds for himself and his wife and a departure gift.
Basilius Schumann never made it to Goettingen.
ML would understand well the frustrations of being a Circuit Counselor or District President, yes?
Maybe I should check with Luther Index on the languages. St. Louis Editors say it was "hochfrankische Sprach" for "oberlandische".
#1744-To Hieronymous Baumgaertner in Nuernberg
To the highly-honored man, Herr Hierronymous Baumgaertner, patrician and council member in Nuernberg, his special friend.
There is nothing current that I can write about only that I want to request that you do not find it burdensome to take care of this box for Herr Ludwig Senfl. He himself, for that matter, has named you to be the intermediary if there was something that I wanted to write to him. I am sending him a letter and several pamphelts as a present and a sign of thankfulness. All of the news must be awaited from you. Be it well you and all you of yours in Christ. Wittenberg on the day of the circumcision of the LOrd (1 Jan.) 1531. Your Martin Luther.
My lord Kaethe respectfully greets you etc.
NOTES: It is still dangerous to be associated with ML. Senfl is still at the cloister. He did some Psalm settings at ML's request. Senfl is a favorite of LCMS organists, I think.
Baumgaertner is a former flame of Kaethe's or so ML thinks.
As ML calls Nuernberg "the eyes and ears of the world" he expects that news should come from there rather than Wittenberg.
There is nothing current that I can write about only that I want to request that you do not find it burdensome to take care of this box for Herr Ludwig Senfl. He himself, for that matter, has named you to be the intermediary if there was something that I wanted to write to him. I am sending him a letter and several pamphelts as a present and a sign of thankfulness. All of the news must be awaited from you. Be it well you and all you of yours in Christ. Wittenberg on the day of the circumcision of the LOrd (1 Jan.) 1531. Your Martin Luther.
My lord Kaethe respectfully greets you etc.
NOTES: It is still dangerous to be associated with ML. Senfl is still at the cloister. He did some Psalm settings at ML's request. Senfl is a favorite of LCMS organists, I think.
Baumgaertner is a former flame of Kaethe's or so ML thinks.
As ML calls Nuernberg "the eyes and ears of the world" he expects that news should come from there rather than Wittenberg.
1743a-To Wolfgang Wiebel in Joachimsthal
(No year (1530?or 1533?) or place of origin for this letter. All editions have 1530 except Erlangen which has 1533 but without explanation)
Grace and peace in Christ. My dear friend! Someone has reported to me that you are favorably inclined toward me and wanted to hear especially about the preaching of Erganus; the erring spirit, whom I have long known, have already revealed themselves; I see them as full of the devil's poison. Since there is not even any syrup or purgation for them they must from above and below disgorge their poison.After a time when they cannot spit or chuck it out their bowels must burst as with Judas for it cannot be that they should have what they have stolen and devoured from Christ. Herewith be to God commended. Martinus Luther.
NOTES: Somewhere the subject changes from Erganus to include all false teachers but I did not see it.Think Erganus, several years before, published an edition of ML's New Testament translation changing several verses to fit the church's understanding but don't quote me on that.
Grace and peace in Christ. My dear friend! Someone has reported to me that you are favorably inclined toward me and wanted to hear especially about the preaching of Erganus; the erring spirit, whom I have long known, have already revealed themselves; I see them as full of the devil's poison. Since there is not even any syrup or purgation for them they must from above and below disgorge their poison.After a time when they cannot spit or chuck it out their bowels must burst as with Judas for it cannot be that they should have what they have stolen and devoured from Christ. Herewith be to God commended. Martinus Luther.
NOTES: Somewhere the subject changes from Erganus to include all false teachers but I did not see it.Think Erganus, several years before, published an edition of ML's New Testament translation changing several verses to fit the church's understanding but don't quote me on that.
Monday, April 11, 2005
#1743-To the Council in Goettingen
To the honorable and perceptive Herr Mayor and the Council in the city of Goettingen,my favored Herrs and friends.
Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable, perpiscuous, dear Herrs. Upon your request I am sending you two preachers for the benefit of all but but request in a friendly way that in these difficult times these poor fellows would not have to depend on salary like they received in Braunschweig. Otherwise it is very pleasant to my heart that you the honorable Council and Congregation are adopting the Braunschweigisch church-order and pray God that He will also give help and grace that you undertake this with harmonious hearts and outlook otherwise it would be better to let it go. Further, the means of living which they have borrowed here should be well undertaken by you. To travel to you at their own cost would be burdensome to them. On the Sunday after Lucia(18 Dec.) 1530. Martin Luther.
NOTES: Follow the church order of Braunschweig but not the salary. I suppose "Sir" would be a good translation of "Herr" if it had the connotation like in our military:"YES,SIR!"
Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable, perpiscuous, dear Herrs. Upon your request I am sending you two preachers for the benefit of all but but request in a friendly way that in these difficult times these poor fellows would not have to depend on salary like they received in Braunschweig. Otherwise it is very pleasant to my heart that you the honorable Council and Congregation are adopting the Braunschweigisch church-order and pray God that He will also give help and grace that you undertake this with harmonious hearts and outlook otherwise it would be better to let it go. Further, the means of living which they have borrowed here should be well undertaken by you. To travel to you at their own cost would be burdensome to them. On the Sunday after Lucia(18 Dec.) 1530. Martin Luther.
NOTES: Follow the church order of Braunschweig but not the salary. I suppose "Sir" would be a good translation of "Herr" if it had the connotation like in our military:"YES,SIR!"
Sunday, April 10, 2005
Saturday, April 09, 2005
#1742-To Peter Hackenberg
To the highly-honorable man,Herr Peter Hackenberg, Christ's servant, his brother in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in Christ! You are not alone, my dear brother in the Lord, Peter, in being deceived by this hope in the Diet. The whole world had looked thereto and sighed for peace and see! instead of bread they received a stone. And so now moreso it is just for you to intend to leave this torture-chamber and to forsake the flesh-devouring monk's-estate (religione). And if your conscience requires counsel I will assist you richly when you depart and whatever I am able to do I will gladly extend it to you. And I think it is just that you have decided to take a little compensation with you when you leave. That is owed to you and Christ presents it to you with joy from the resources of these Egyptian tyrants, thieves and robbers. Further do not have concern about any sort of parish or service of the Word. Everywhere there is a great shortage of shepherds so it is about to happen that we will be required to ordain or install preachers according to our own ceremony without tonsure, mitre,anointing,without glove, shepherd's staff, without incense and without this bishop. The LOrd Jesus who has begun His Word of grace in you continue it until the Day of His glory, Amen. Wittenberg, on the Friday after Lucia (Dec.16) 1530.
NOTES: No location of the addresse and no signature on this one.
Grace and peace in Christ! You are not alone, my dear brother in the Lord, Peter, in being deceived by this hope in the Diet. The whole world had looked thereto and sighed for peace and see! instead of bread they received a stone. And so now moreso it is just for you to intend to leave this torture-chamber and to forsake the flesh-devouring monk's-estate (religione). And if your conscience requires counsel I will assist you richly when you depart and whatever I am able to do I will gladly extend it to you. And I think it is just that you have decided to take a little compensation with you when you leave. That is owed to you and Christ presents it to you with joy from the resources of these Egyptian tyrants, thieves and robbers. Further do not have concern about any sort of parish or service of the Word. Everywhere there is a great shortage of shepherds so it is about to happen that we will be required to ordain or install preachers according to our own ceremony without tonsure, mitre,anointing,without glove, shepherd's staff, without incense and without this bishop. The LOrd Jesus who has begun His Word of grace in you continue it until the Day of His glory, Amen. Wittenberg, on the Friday after Lucia (Dec.16) 1530.
NOTES: No location of the addresse and no signature on this one.
Friday, April 08, 2005
#1740-To Johann Hess in Breslau
To Johann Hess,pastor of the church in Bresalu.
Grace and peace in Christ,my dear Hess. At first I did not think it good that M.Ambrosius was called to Schweidnitz because it seemed to me he was not will to accept this office so I did not know whether it would be advisable or not. But since you all there are insisting that he come there and look it over himself whether he should be released from it or be bound by it.
About the Diet (of Augsburg: ML has first a written report of it at the end of 1530 or beginning of 1531) it is the opinion the Emperor has badly ordered that everything should be restored to what it was formerly and that kingdom of the Pope must be established and, to be sure, firmer than before. This stubborness, I fear, will result in a moverment in the empire that will result in the ruin of the bishops and ecclesiastics. The powerful cities, namely Nuernberg,Ulm, Augsburg,Strassburg,Frankfurt and twelve others have rejected the decree of Empire and want it publicly known that they are hanging consisitently with our Princes on the Word. It is said also that it is certain that Ferdinand will be elected to be the Roman king so that therto he may add a kingdom in place of that which he has lost and that finally will complete the misfortunes to our country.I believe that you have heard about the flood in Rome and also of the others in Brabant and Flanders
both of which are very terrible.God permits these great and numerous signs but the godless do not trouble themselves over them. I believe that you also have heard of the appearance (visionem) of the Speierishe monks. (All sorts of monks pressed two fisherman to take them on the Rhein saying they were headed to Augsburg but the whole lot disppeared.) Now there is a new ghost seen around Baden with an army of foot soldiers in the air and on side a leading soldier who is moving a spear back and forth and shaking it and going through this mountainous region as it were in triumph there and over the Rhein. Yesterday, Brenz wrote to me about this. Terrible and marvelous things are being said about the Turks. I am surprised that you do not write anything about this. We will pray to Christ that He will put to an end these horrors and come with glory and majesty to deliver us from this distress. Greet all of yours. On the day before Nicolaus (5 Dec.) 1530. Your Martin Luther.
NOTES: Part of Ferdinand's domain was lost to the Turks. He and Charles V are brothers. Looks like an ominous Christmas for 1530.
Grace and peace in Christ,my dear Hess. At first I did not think it good that M.Ambrosius was called to Schweidnitz because it seemed to me he was not will to accept this office so I did not know whether it would be advisable or not. But since you all there are insisting that he come there and look it over himself whether he should be released from it or be bound by it.
About the Diet (of Augsburg: ML has first a written report of it at the end of 1530 or beginning of 1531) it is the opinion the Emperor has badly ordered that everything should be restored to what it was formerly and that kingdom of the Pope must be established and, to be sure, firmer than before. This stubborness, I fear, will result in a moverment in the empire that will result in the ruin of the bishops and ecclesiastics. The powerful cities, namely Nuernberg,Ulm, Augsburg,Strassburg,Frankfurt and twelve others have rejected the decree of Empire and want it publicly known that they are hanging consisitently with our Princes on the Word. It is said also that it is certain that Ferdinand will be elected to be the Roman king so that therto he may add a kingdom in place of that which he has lost and that finally will complete the misfortunes to our country.I believe that you have heard about the flood in Rome and also of the others in Brabant and Flanders
both of which are very terrible.God permits these great and numerous signs but the godless do not trouble themselves over them. I believe that you also have heard of the appearance (visionem) of the Speierishe monks. (All sorts of monks pressed two fisherman to take them on the Rhein saying they were headed to Augsburg but the whole lot disppeared.) Now there is a new ghost seen around Baden with an army of foot soldiers in the air and on side a leading soldier who is moving a spear back and forth and shaking it and going through this mountainous region as it were in triumph there and over the Rhein. Yesterday, Brenz wrote to me about this. Terrible and marvelous things are being said about the Turks. I am surprised that you do not write anything about this. We will pray to Christ that He will put to an end these horrors and come with glory and majesty to deliver us from this distress. Greet all of yours. On the day before Nicolaus (5 Dec.) 1530. Your Martin Luther.
NOTES: Part of Ferdinand's domain was lost to the Turks. He and Charles V are brothers. Looks like an ominous Christmas for 1530.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
#1739-To Johann Fesel Coburg
To the highly-honorable man, Herr Johann Fesel, the faithful servant of the Word in Coburg, his brother in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in the LOrd! Christ support and gratify your wife and compensate her with a good birth, my dear Fesel. Meanwhile,you be strong and comfort her and also greet her in my name. (confinement and delivery of a child was no small thing in those days.)If my prayer can accomplish anything, I will not fail to do so. Actually I have pressed faithfully regarding the matter of Rauschner both by letter and orally
to Rietesel but have not yet received an answer. I believe that the great volume of projects at the court, if I am not mistaken in these exciting times, is the reason and presently at the court there are great decisions and movements underway. For this reason I think that Rauschner, to be sure, should not cease to press but rather at another time when the court-personnel are less busy. In regard to the paintings (figuli) I have not forgotten but also seek a more convenient time to have a break from my labors; the little painting (on pottery?) of my daughter which sets on top of the stove and artistically portrays at the same time the face of the father reminds me. Greet your wife and your little Fesel (Feselios). Greet all of ours and pray for me.
Cyriacus is in sorrow because I am opposed to his love and I have expressed my opinion about it. "There's trouble and emergency," before I can extinguish this flame which is burning at both ends. Greet all of yours repeatedly. Christ be with you, Amen. first of December 1530.
NOTES: ML was at a fortress in Coburg from late May to October 1530 staying close by to be in communication with the Diet of Augsburg where he could not be because of the Imperial Ban.
Editors think that Fesel had requested ML to secure a painting probably on a piece of pottery.
Cyriacus Kaufmann is ML's nephew.
Grace and peace in the LOrd! Christ support and gratify your wife and compensate her with a good birth, my dear Fesel. Meanwhile,you be strong and comfort her and also greet her in my name. (confinement and delivery of a child was no small thing in those days.)If my prayer can accomplish anything, I will not fail to do so. Actually I have pressed faithfully regarding the matter of Rauschner both by letter and orally
to Rietesel but have not yet received an answer. I believe that the great volume of projects at the court, if I am not mistaken in these exciting times, is the reason and presently at the court there are great decisions and movements underway. For this reason I think that Rauschner, to be sure, should not cease to press but rather at another time when the court-personnel are less busy. In regard to the paintings (figuli) I have not forgotten but also seek a more convenient time to have a break from my labors; the little painting (on pottery?) of my daughter which sets on top of the stove and artistically portrays at the same time the face of the father reminds me. Greet your wife and your little Fesel (Feselios). Greet all of ours and pray for me.
Cyriacus is in sorrow because I am opposed to his love and I have expressed my opinion about it. "There's trouble and emergency," before I can extinguish this flame which is burning at both ends. Greet all of yours repeatedly. Christ be with you, Amen. first of December 1530.
NOTES: ML was at a fortress in Coburg from late May to October 1530 staying close by to be in communication with the Diet of Augsburg where he could not be because of the Imperial Ban.
Editors think that Fesel had requested ML to secure a painting probably on a piece of pottery.
Cyriacus Kaufmann is ML's nephew.
Saturday, April 02, 2005
#1738-ML to Wenceslaus Link in Nuernberg
To the worthy man, Herr Wenceslaus Link, the very faithful servant of the Word in Nuernberg, his superior in the LOrd, and favor-granter. (Goenner?)
With us there is nothing new, my dear Wenceslaus, but with you, I believe, everything is known. On the flooding in Flanders and Antwerp we are hearing and yet the matter is uncertain; if yet both should be true, the flood in Rome and in Flanders, they are terrible signs against both Majesties, the Pope as well as the Emperor. These yet belong to the other signs with which Christ is readying His return to judgment. "It will come to pass" the ending of the godless and the beginning of the kingdom of the blessed, Amen. Pray for me that I be strong in faith;physically I am to an extent well except only being troubled with drainage in a tooth and in the throat. Greet all of ours,Osiander, and Dominicus (Schleupner), the Abbot (Pistorius of St.Aegidius), Spengler, our Veit (Dietrich), since I do not have time to write to all as I am not merely Luther, but Pommer, but the Official, Moses, Jethro and whoever? everyone in everything. Pluribus intentus minor est ad singula Luther. (Luther has much to do so nothing is done well.) Pommer is having good success in Lubeck except that Satan gives him much to do with a possessed young woman. The poisonous evil spirit is bringing forth cunning things; if you want to read about this (#1725) you can find it in this letter but send it back to me after a time. Greet heartily in Christ your Rib and your Riblets. My Lord (meus domina) Kaethe greets you. 1 December 1530. Your Martin Luther.
I ask you to send this on to Nicolaus Gerbel in Strassburg if you have help and advice of friends to hand it on; make an earnest effort to do so.
NOTES: How would like being named Dominicus SCHLEUPNER? He was pastor at St. Sebald's in Nuernberg.ML once said that Nuernberg is the "eyes and ears of the world." A very imperial free city?
With us there is nothing new, my dear Wenceslaus, but with you, I believe, everything is known. On the flooding in Flanders and Antwerp we are hearing and yet the matter is uncertain; if yet both should be true, the flood in Rome and in Flanders, they are terrible signs against both Majesties, the Pope as well as the Emperor. These yet belong to the other signs with which Christ is readying His return to judgment. "It will come to pass" the ending of the godless and the beginning of the kingdom of the blessed, Amen. Pray for me that I be strong in faith;physically I am to an extent well except only being troubled with drainage in a tooth and in the throat. Greet all of ours,Osiander, and Dominicus (Schleupner), the Abbot (Pistorius of St.Aegidius), Spengler, our Veit (Dietrich), since I do not have time to write to all as I am not merely Luther, but Pommer, but the Official, Moses, Jethro and whoever? everyone in everything. Pluribus intentus minor est ad singula Luther. (Luther has much to do so nothing is done well.) Pommer is having good success in Lubeck except that Satan gives him much to do with a possessed young woman. The poisonous evil spirit is bringing forth cunning things; if you want to read about this (#1725) you can find it in this letter but send it back to me after a time. Greet heartily in Christ your Rib and your Riblets. My Lord (meus domina) Kaethe greets you. 1 December 1530. Your Martin Luther.
I ask you to send this on to Nicolaus Gerbel in Strassburg if you have help and advice of friends to hand it on; make an earnest effort to do so.
NOTES: How would like being named Dominicus SCHLEUPNER? He was pastor at St. Sebald's in Nuernberg.ML once said that Nuernberg is the "eyes and ears of the world." A very imperial free city?
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