To the electoral Princes,Frederick and John William - Martin Luther

TO THE ELECTORAL PRINCES, FREDERICK AND JOHN WILLIAM

Luther rejoices over the Princes’ progress in learning, etc. September 6, 1541.

Grace and peace, Most Gracious Serene Princes! I was delighted to receive your Highnesses’ letters, from which I saw what a good and solid foundation you are laying both in the sciences and religion; and I thank God, through Christ His Son, who has begun such a glorious work in such exalted personages, and beseech Him to perfect the work He has begun. And we must all ask this with our whole hearts, for we know that your Electoral Highnesses are being trained to conduct the highest and most weighty matters in the State as well as in the Church. For the Evil One is ever going about with his wily artifices trying to lay countless traps for you, especially in your own home, through false friends and courtiers, even as we read happened to King David and every good prince. Hence the

poet’s fable of Atlas supporting the heavens, and St. Christopher carrying the whole hemisphere on his shoulders, while he only bore the child Jesus. Your Highnesses’ father has doubtless often experienced this. And even although a good prince possesses genius, power, energy, piety, and spiritual wisdom, still he constantly stands in need of the persevering humble prayers of those about him, that God, despite the power of Satan, may give him the victory. I commend your Highnesses to the protection of this good God forever and ever. Keep me always in your gracious remembrance. My son shall write again, as he has no time at present. I did not wish to send the messenger back empty handed.

MARTIN LUTHER . (Schutze.)