To Friedrich Myconius letter 4 - Martin Luther

TO FRIEDRICH MYCONIUS

This letter shows Luther’s opinion of the combatant at Gotha. February 23, 1544.

Grace and peace! Forgive a short letter, dear Friedrich. More again when I have more leisure. Yours, telling me that you were faithfully fulfilling the duties of your office in reconciling Morlin with the Arnstadt people, gave me the greatest pleasure. For this misunderstanding placed me most awkwardly at a time when unanimity and prayer are so necessary. Do not trouble consulting me, for I am quite satisfied with your mediation. Whomsoever you forgive is forgiven by me. I quite believe some preachers are too ready to flare up, but I also know that in towns there are many despotic people, and very many nobles who torment their pastors. More of this again. I wish you were stronger, but when you feel you cannot speak, I beseech you think of your health. It is better that you should live, even if half dumb, than die with a clear voice. You can, even if half dead, serve the Church through your counsel and position. And you must see how necessary are the old and tried combatants for Christ,

that through them the growing and still tender generations, who are one day to fill our place, may receive strength. For although the Holy Spirit does not need our help, still it was not for no purpose that He called us to office, but to make us His tools to carry out His designs. Farewell in the Lord, and pray for me.

MARTIN LUTHER . (Myconius’s Life, by Ledderhose.)