To Johann Lonicer,Diligent servant of the Lord in Marburg - Martin Luther

TO JOHANN LONICER, DILIGENT SERVANT OF THE LORD IN MARBURG Luther begs him not to be impatient to have a change of abode.

February 8, 1535. Grace and peace! I see all your motives, my Lonicer, but I cannot approve of your being overcome of the first or even second onslaught of Satan, making you desire a change of residen- ce. Satan cannot be vanquished through any such change, for he is a spirit which roams everywhere; still, if you were to get a call soon you would be justified in leaving. Our Junkers are almost all, if not enemies, at least openly despise the Word and its servants, and Christ has suffered it thus far, but when He appears in the full glory of His power they will have to atone for this. I know of nothing new except that there are rumours of a future council at which religious matters will be settled. What may be arranged God only knows, to whom I commend you, with your house vine and olive branches. MARTIN LUTHER .

P.S. — This youth Emmer, the bearer of these lines, is house tutor to Dr. Jonas’s sons, and wishes to become acquainted with other celebrated men on his journey.