Page:The letters of Martin Luther.djvu/233

 so things would be worse than ever. Regarding your Grace’s fears that bloodshed would ensue from such discord, you know that whatever happens we are innocent, and God will bring our innocence to the light of day. If this spirit of union should result in bloodshed, such action is in accordance with its nature, as was seen in Franz von Sickingen, Carlstadt, and Munzer; and there, too, we were blameless. I write all this to prove how ready I am to serve you. May Christ tread Satan under our feet!

Amen. Your Grace’s obedient MARTIN LUTHER.

CLXXXVIII
TO CONRAD CORDATUS

Luther says the gospel messenger must suffer persecution.

July 14, 1529.

Grace and peace! Be strong in Christ, my Cordatus, in order to put up with those ungrateful people in Zwickau. Do not think of changing your post.

This is a more testing temptation than any you have had. The world is the enemy of God and His Word. It is therefore a miracle if among God’s enemies any are friendly to His children. The world loves its own, so we may know that we are not of this world when she hates and despises us.

Hence you have merely to put up with an incarnate devil, who, through the flesh, his sluggish tool, harasses and enervates you, but cannot, much as he wishes, injure you. But resist him with all your might. Therefore you act in a brotherly way in comforting me so lovingly and wishing me all good.

Continue so to do and pray, as I do for you, that we may be set free, and till that day comes, bring forth fruit in patience. God grant this! Greet your beloved other half in the Lord. MARTIN LUTHER.