To George Spalatin letter 25 - Martin Luther

TO GEORGE SPALATIN

Luther expects no good from the Emperor. July 13, 1530.

Grace and peace! I also believe, dear Spalatin, that the Emperor is a good, pious man, which you always said he was. But I have no hope of him favoring our cause, even if he would like to. For what can one man do against so many devils? Therefore, the Lord alone must be our refuge, for He loves to comfort the desponding and help those who are forsaken of the whole world. But I wish to know what has happened since I last heard from you. For I suppose things will now be settled, and you are not only condemned, but the enemy is heaping insults and contempt upon you. For the opponents are boasting of their triumph at Augsburg, and despise and laugh at us. “But be of good cheer,” says Christ, “I have overcome the world.” He who dwells in heaven will laugh at them. I am sure this will be the case. We cannot look for help unless we have been forsaken. We have assumed the office and duties of those of whom it is written, “Ye will be hated of all men for My sake,” and yet we are

surprised when we are subjected to such hatred. If we are unwilling to have this promise verified in ourselves, we ought not to have taken this office upon us, or should have seen that such a prophecy never was uttered. But now it is too late to reap favor and thanks. . . . I am quite pleased that Herzog George should behave thus. God will reward him according to his actions. May the Lord comfort and strengthen you all. From the wilderness of Coburg.

MARTIN LUTHER . (Walch, 5:16. 2134.)