To the elector John Frederick letter 11 - Martin Luther

TO THE ELECTOR JOHN FREDERICK OF SAXONY

Topics to be discussed at Schmalkalden sent to the Elector. January 18, 1540.

Grace and peace in Christ, and my poor paternoster! We herewith send your Electoral Grace our opinions, by which we shall abide. For things have come to a desperate pass with the Papists, even as with their god, the devil. They sin knowingly against the truth, viz. the Holy Ghost, so one can neither hope nor pray for them. . . . I would gladly go to Eisenach with our people on their way to Schmalkalden, but I do not see that I would be of any use. It would only cause fruitless trouble and expense; but I am ready to do what your Grace wishes, although it would matter little if I closed my eyes once for all and never again beheld the world in its blasphemous fury. God be praised, surely Philip and Dr. Jonas are quite capable of dealing with these things. I did not think it necessary to call the members of the league (Schmalkaldischen) together again, for matters might have been satisfactorily arranged otherwise. Hoping my advice will meet with your Grace’s approval, I herewith commit you to the dear God. Amen.

Your Electoral Grace’s obedient MARTIN LUTHER . (De Wette.)