The Wittenberger theologians send best wishes to the newly-called servant of the Word in Winsheim.
Heil! Since your citizens in Winsheim have requested our illustrious Prince that he might send you to govern the church of that city the illustrious Prince has delivered the decision to us and commanded that we should write to you that he graciously constitutes you should be in your father-land as befits you,if we determine that you are acceptable for this office. The very good Prince desires not only to advise his territories but also the churches in other areas as much as he is able. We regard your doctrine as good and your discretion and your insight and your carefulness in every aspect of administration to be same so we commend you to the office of the church in Winsheim to teach and govern and are confident of the same recommendation.And we have written to the Prince of our decision in this matter, and he has commended you to be graciously appointed to Winsheim and we admonish you that you the Gospel of Christ which previously have taught amongst us purely that you faithfully set forth the same to the glory of Christ and for the salvation of the people and that you do not permit the purity of our teaching be corrupted by new doctrines which godless people everywhere promulgate who do not know Christ; and we remind you that you continually are mindful of the dangers of the time which at all times requires careful and watchful teachers. Now we see that everywhere teachings are put forward which especially want to set aside our teaching which we regard as necessary regarding the teaching of the forgiveness of sins and righteousness by faith. This we have written on account of our Prince, the Duke of Saxony, Elector, in respect of our love toward you, which you must believe, and pray that Christ will will direct you to His glory and to the salvation of the people. Given at Wittenberg on the Wednesday after Elisabeth (22 Nov.) Anno 1531. Martin Luther, Justus Jonas.Philipp Melanchton.
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