Life and Acts of Martin Luther (M Luther)
PART ONE
A HISTORY OF THE LIFE AND ACTIONS
OF THE VERY REVEREND DR. MARTIN LUTHER,
FAITHFULLY WRITTEN BY PHILIP MELANCTHON.
WITTEMBURG, 1549

DR. MARTIN LUTHER

That venerable man, Martin Luther, whilst he was yet with us, gave us reason to hope that he might himself, narrate the story of his life, with the circumstances of'
conflict attending it; and this he would undoubtedly have accomplished, had he not been so soon called out of this mortal existence, onto the eternal fellowship of God,
and of his children in heaven.

Profitable indeed, would have been the contemplation of his private life, clearly set forth, for it was full of examples calculated to confirm in after times. the piety of the
wise-hearted; and profitable also would have been the recital of events which might tend largely to the information of posterity. Such a work would also have refuted
the calumnies of those who profess that Luther, incited by the principal men of the day, or possibly by others, to seek the downfall of episcopal power and dignity, or
inflamed by personal ambition, had become the instrument in loosing the bands of monastic thraldom. Much advantage would have been derived from a copious and
complete notice of these incidents, illustrated and recorded by himself; and although malevolent persons may object, that self-praise is an unworthy theme for a man to
choose, yet we well know the character of Luther to have been of such solidity, that he would have written, even his own history, with the utmost good faith. We may
also assert, that many excellent and intelligent men are yet living, to whom he could not but be aware, that the series of these events was well known; it would then have
been great folly, if as is sometimes done in works of imagination, he had fabricated any other narrative; but since his lamented death has deprived the world of his
autobiography, we shall now, with fidelity, relate those things connected with it which we have heard from his own lips, and those to which we have ourselves been
eyewitnesses.

The name of Luther is widely spread throughout the ramifications of an ancient family within the Lordship of the illustrious Counts of Mansfield, but the parents of
Martin Luther originally resided in the town of Eisleben, where he was born, subsequently they removed to Mansfield, where his father, John Luther, filled the office of
magistrate, and for his integrity of character, was valued and beloved by all good men. In his mother, Margaret Luther, was found a fair assemblage of domestic virtues;
and a peculiar delicacy of mind was conspicuous in her character, accompanied by the fear of God and the spirit of prayer, so that many excellent women found in her
a bright example of Christian virtues. Her reply to questions which I have occasionally put to her, respecting the time of her son's birth, was, that she clearly
remembered the day and the hour, but that she was doubtful as to the year; she said, however, that he was born on the 10th of November, after eleven o'clock at night;
and that the name of Martin was given to the infant, because the following day on which, by baptism, he was initiated into the church of God, was dedicated to Saint
Martin. But his brother James, a man of uprightness and integrity, was accustomed to say, that the opinion of the family, respecting Luther's age was, that he was born
in the year of our Lord 1483.

When be had attained an age at which be was capable of receiving instruction, his parents diligently accustomed their son Martin to the service and fear of God, in
connection with the performance of' social and family duties; and, as is usual with good persons, they took care that he should receive literary instruction, so that whilst
yet quite young his education was entrusted to the care of the father of George Emilius, who, as he is still living, can bear witness to the truth of this relation. At that time
the grammar-schools of Saxony were not in a flourishing condition, and on this account, when Martin had entered his fourteenth year, he was sent to Magdeburg,
accompanied by John Reineeke, whose character was afterwards of a shining order, and the influence which he obtained in that neighborhood consequently great. The
affection which subsisted between Luther and Reinecke, whether arising from a natural accordance of mind, or from their companionship in youthful studies, was both
ardent and lasting. Luther, however, did not remain at Magdeburg longer than twelve months.

During four succeeding years, passed in the school of Eisenach, he had an opportunity of hearing a preceptor who illustrated grammatical studies with greater accuracy
and ability than he could have met with elsewhere; for I remember to have heard his talents commended by Luther, who was sent to this town from the circumstance of
his mother's descent from an ancient and honorable family in those parts.. Here he completed his grammatical studies. The powers of his intellect being of a gigantic
order and peculiarly adapted to the science of eloquence, he speedily surpassed his contemporaries, both in the copiousness of his language as a public speaker, and in
prose composition; whilst in poetry, be with ease excelled his competitors in the course of learning.

Having thus tasted the sweets of literature, the soul of Luther ardently thirsted for deeper draughts; and with this feeling he sought the University, as being the fountain
head of learning. The scope of so great a mind might easily have embraced all the arts in succession, had it found teachers competent to the work; and it is indeed
possible that the calmer pursuits of philosophy combined with oratory, would have proved advantageous in moderating the impetuosity of his natural temperament. But
at Erfurt, he was subjected to the subtle dialectics prevalent at that time; these he readily embraced, since by the acuteness of his understanding, he perceived with more
facility than other men, the causes and designs of those studies.

His spirit thus thirsting for knowledge, continually sought a more abundant and better supply. He read many of the works of the ancient Latin authors, as Cicero, Virgil,
Livy and others; these he perused, not as schoolboys commonly do, merely by gathering together a vocabulary of words, but for solid instruction, and as mirrors of
human life, by which means he gained a full perception of the views and opinions of these writers, and as his memory was both accurate and tenacious, much of what he
read and heard was clearly placed before his mental vision. Hence it was remarkable that even in his youth, the talents of Luther were the admiration of the whole
University.

Having attained the degree of Master in Philosophy, Luther now in his twentieth year applied himself to the study of the law; and this he did by the advice of his friends,
who deemed that a mind of such large endowment, and of such fertility in thought and diction ought by no means to be kept in the shade, but to be called out for the
benefit of the state. Soon afterwards however, and when he had entered his one and twentieth year, suddenly, and in a manner unexpected by his parents and other
relatives, he went to the College of Augustine monks, at Erfurt, and requested to be received into it. On his entrance there, he not only applied with the closest diligence
to ecclesiastical studies; but also, with the greatest severity of discipline, he exercised the government of himself, and far surpassed all others in the comprehensive range
of reading and disputation with a zealous observance of fasting and prayer. He possessed a constitution at which I have often marvelled, being of no small bodily
stature, nor of a weekly (sic) habit though very abstemious; I have seen him during four days successively, when in perfect health, literally abstain from both meat and
drink; at other times for many days together, he has been satisfied with a small allowance of bread and herring.

But the occasion of his entering on this course of life which he considered more particularly adapted to the attainment of piety and the knowledge of God, as he himself
has related, and as many are already aware, was the following; often when contemplating the wrath of God, as exhibited in striking instances of His avenging hand,
suddenly such terrors have overwhelmed his mind, as almost to deprive him of consciousness; and I myself have seen him whilst engaged in some doctrinal discussion,
 Copyright (c) 2005-2009, Infobase Media Corp.                                                                                                               Page    1 / has
                                                                                                                                                                          8
involuntarily affected in this manner, when he has thrown himself on a bed in an adjoining room, and repeatedly mingled with his prayers the following passage     "God
concluded them all in unbelief that he might have mercy upon all." These terrors he experienced either for the first time, or in the most acute manner, during the year in
which he was deprived of a favorite friend, who lost his life by some accident of which I am ignorant.
But the occasion of his entering on this course of life which he considered more particularly adapted to the attainment of piety and the knowledge of God, as he himself
has related, and as many are already aware, was the following; often when contemplating the wrath of God, as exhibited in striking instances of His avenging hand,
suddenly such terrors have overwhelmed his mind, as almost to deprive him of consciousness; and I myself have seen him whilst engaged in some doctrinal discussion,
involuntarily affected in this manner, when he has thrown himself on a bed in an adjoining room, and repeatedly mingled with his prayers the following passage "God has
concluded them all in unbelief that he might have mercy upon all." These terrors he experienced either for the first time, or in the most acute manner, during the year in
which he was deprived of a favorite friend, who lost his life by some accident of which I am ignorant.

It was not therefore poverty, but religious zeal that led him to this kind of monastic life, in which although he daily made himself acquainted with the doctrine then taught
in the schools, read "the Sententiaries," and in public disputations, ably elucidated to admiring audiences, labyrinths of science, inexplicable to others: yet, as in this
course of life he sought, not the fame of intellect, but an accession to his piety, he pursued these studies as a recreation, and thus mastered with ease the systems of the
schools. Meanwhile he drank with avidity from those fountains of celestial wisdom, the prophetic and apostolic scriptures, that he might acquaint himself with the will of
God, and that be might by the surest testimonies, increase his filial fear and confirm his faith whilst the force of his mental anguish impelled him to pursue with greater
intensity, these devotional exercises.

He has often said that he was strengthened about this time by the discourses of a certain aged man, in the college of Augustines at Erfurth, who, when he disclosed to
him the conflicts of his spirit, introduced his mind to new views on the subject of faith; and he has told me that he led him to that article in the creed, in which it is said " I
believe in the remission of sins," which be thus interpreted, "that it is necessary not only to believe in general terms, that sins are remitted to some, as the devils also
believe that they were remitted to David or to Peter in particular, but that it is the command of God that each individual man should realize the behest that his sins are
forgiven him. Luther said that this interpretation of his friend was confirmed by the testimony of Bernardus, and that a passage in the discourse on the Annunciation, has
these words; "but add, that then believe this also, that by Him thy sins are forgiven thee." Such is the testimony which the Holy Ghost speaketh in thine heart, saying,
"thy sins are remitted unto thee;" and this is in accordance with apostolic writ, being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." Luther
was also established in these opinions, not only by the above conversations, but also by the whole tenor of the writings of the Apostle Paul, who uniformly inculcates the
doctrine that we are justified by faith. And when afterwards, he placed the expositions of various authors on this subject, in comparison with the preceding
conversations, and with his own consoling experience of the work of the Spirit, he evidently perceived the fallacy of the tenets supported by these writers; and as he
read and compared the precepts and examples recorded by the Prophets and Apostles, and prayed daily for the establishment of his faith, a clearer light by degrees,
shone upon his way.

He now first directed his attention to the pages of Augustine, where both in "The Interpretation of the Psalms," and in "The Treatise on the Letter and the Spirit," he
found many perspicuous sentiments which confirmed this doctrine of faith, and fanned the flame of hope that had been kindled in his breast; nor did he altogether
relinquish the "Sententiaries." He could recite Gabrielis and Cameracensis, almost verbatim; for a long time also, he applied closely to the writings of Occam, the
acumen of which author, he preferred to Thomas and Scotus. He also read Gerson with diligence; but all the works of Augustine were frequently read by him, and well
stored in his memory. This rigid course of application he commenced at Erfurt, in which town, at the Augustine College, he remained four years.

At this time, in the year 1508 the Venerable Stupicius (sic) who had favored the opening of the University at Wittenburg, and who was desirous of promoting the study
of Theology in that College, when he became acquainted with the talent and erudition of Luther, then in the twenty-sixth year of his age, invited him to that place, and
there amid the daily literary exercises in the schools, his intellectual powers gained still increasing brilliancy.

Luther was attentively listened to by men of high attainments, Doctor Martin Mellerstadius and others; and Doctor M. has often said, that so great were the energies of
his mind, as to give clear evidence that he would one day, effect the overthrow of the theories of learning which were then taught in the schools. He now first
expounded the Physics and Dialectics of Aristotle; at the same time not forgetting his own favorite study, that of Theology.

After three years he went to Rome, on account of a monkish controversy, and returning within a year, be was according to the custom of the schools, presented to the
Elector, Frederic, Grand Duke of Saxony, and dignified with the degree of Doctor; for the Elector had heard him speak in public, and much admired his lofty genius, his
convincing eloquence, and the happy mode in which he illustrated subjects brought forward in the assembly: but to form a just estimate of his we should remember that
the degree of Doctor was conferred on Luther when only in the thirtieth year of his age. He has himself told us, that when he strenuously declined accepting the degree,
he received a charge from Stupicius not to reject the honor conferred on him, adding in pleasantry, that God had much work to be done in the church, for which
purpose at some future time, his labors would be called into action; this although uttered in jest, was realized in the event; as a host of presages often indicates the
approaching convulsions.

Luther now began his commentary on the Epistle to the Romans; then, that on the Psalms; and he illustrated these writings in such a manner that, in the opinion of the
wise and good, the light of truth first dawned upon them after a long night of darkness. He here shewed the distinction between the law and the gospel; he refuted the
error then reigning in the schools and councils, which taught that men deserve the remission of their sins on account of their own works, and the dogma of the Pharisees,
that men are in themselves just before God. In this manner Luther led the minds of men to the Savior, and, like John the Baptist, he pointed out "the Lamb of God who
taketh away the sins of the world". He allowed that sins are freely remitted through the Son of God, and that we must all receive this blessing by faith; these, with other
points of Christian doctrine, be set forth to them in a clear light.

A career of usefulness thus nobly begun, invested with no common authority, a teacher whose practice so beautifully harmonized with his precepts, that his appeals
evidently arose, not from the lips only, but also from the heart. The charm of so admirable a character won the affections of his hearers, as according to the old
proverb, "manner has more weight than words; " so that when he afterwards effected a change in some of the established modes of worship, men of rank who knew
him well, were the less vehemently opposed to him, on account of the ascendancy which he had gained over the public mind by his elucidation of important theories, as
well as by the sanctity of his life; and united with him in lamenting the prevalence of opinions by which they saw that the world was distracted.

Luther did not at this time make any alteration in the ceremonies of the church; on the contrary, he still maintained a severe course of discipline amongst his disciples,
nor did he mingle therewith any of his own formidable sentiments, but he explained to them, with renewed earnestness, the universal and all-important doctrines of
repentance, of the remission of sins, of faith, and of the true consolation of the cross.

With so admirable a theology, the religious world was much captivated; and to the learned also, it was not unwelcome, for they beheld, as it were, Christ, the prophets
and apostles brought out of darkness, the prison, and the prison house; they perceived the distinction between the law and the gospel, between the promises of the law
and those of the gospel, and between philosophy and the gospel; distinctions which certainly are not recognized in Thomas, Scotus, and others of their school; he thus
contrasted, spiritual Holiness with the moral law.

At this time, the attention of the pupils in the university was directed to the writings of Erasmus, as studies in the Latin and Greek languages; and thus a more genial
philosophy being exhibited to them, many who possessed sound and liberal understandings, for the first time conceived a horror at the barbarous sophistry of the
monks.

Luther now began to devote himself more particularly to the acquirement of Greek and Hebrew, in order that having made himself acquainted with the properties and
peculiarities
 Copyright (c)of languages,
                 2005-2009, and having drunk
                              Infobase  MediaatCorp.
                                               the well-springs of knowledge, he might attain a greater maturity of judgment.                       Page 2 / 8
When he entered on this course, venal indulgences were promulgated by Tetzel, a friar of the Dominican order and a most audacious sycophant; at the same time,
Luther, who was ardent in the pursuit of holiness, being irritated by his impious and nefarious harangues, published his own propositions on the subject of indulgences,
monks.

Luther now began to devote himself more particularly to the acquirement of Greek and Hebrew, in order that having made himself acquainted with the properties and
peculiarities of languages, and having drunk at the well-springs of knowledge, he might attain a greater maturity of judgment.

When he entered on this course, venal indulgences were promulgated by Tetzel, a friar of the Dominican order and a most audacious sycophant; at the same time,
Luther, who was ardent in the pursuit of holiness, being irritated by his impious and nefarious harangues, published his own propositions on the subject of indulgences,
which are to be found in the first volume of his works; these he affixed to the church contiguous to the castle of Wittemburg, on the day before the festival of Allsaints,
(sic) in the year 1517. Upon this, Tetzel, acting by no means inconsistently with his character, and hoping to ingratiate himself with the Roman Pontiff, called together, as
his council, certain monks and theologians imbued more or less with his own sophistry; these men he directed to compose something against Luther, in the mean time,
that he might not appear to be silenced, he hurled not only declamations as before, but thundering accusations against Luther, and vociferated on all sides that this
heretic would be destroyed by fire. His propositions also, and his protest, were publicly consigned to the flames. These ravings of Tetzel and his satellites, imposed on
Luther the necessity of a more ample discussion of these subjects, and a further vindication of the truth.

Such was the origin of a controversy, in which Luther, not as yet suspecting or imagining the future overthrow of rites and ceremonies, forcibly enjoined moderation, for
he did not at that time himself entirely reject the indulgences. He was, therefore, basely calumniated by those who said that he had made a plausible beginning with an
intention eventually, to overturn the government, and this, by seeking power, either for himself or for others; so little truth was there in the accusation of his having been
suborned or incited by courtiers, as the Duke of Brunswick expressed in writing, that even the Elector Frederic was grieved by the report of these contests, foreseeing
as he did, that although they originated in a popular cause, yet that this flame would gradually spread far and wide, as is said of the strife in Homer,_

"Soon grows the pigmy to gigantic size."

As Frederic, one of the greatest princes of our times, was particularly anxious for the preservation of public tranquility, he was accustomed to refer matters of debate
which affected the common weal, to the States of the empire, so that by many evidences, it was clear that he neither instigated nor approved the proceedings of Luther,
but he frequently manifested his regret at the existing state of things, as he was apprehensive of stir greater disturbances.

Frederic being a wise prince, and uninfluenced by that worldly policy which hastens to extinguish every appearance of reform, and adhering in his councils to the divine
law, which commands its to listen to the voice of the Gospel, which forbids us to resist acknowledged truth, and which calls that a blasphemy under the awful
condemnation of God, which pertinaciously withstands it; he followed the course which many wise and learned men have done, he yielded up the cause to God. He
also carefully read the polemic writings of the day, and those which appeared to be on the side of truth he was unwilling to reject.

I know, indeed, that Frederic often inquired the opinion of scholars concerning these matters, and, that in the convention held at Cologne, by the Emperor Charles the
fifth, after his coronation, be asked Erasmus, of Rotterdam, in a friendly manner, whether he considered that Luther was in the wrong, in those controversies which then
engaged so much of his attention; to this Erasmus candidly replied, that he was of opinion that Luther was in the right, but that he was wanting in gentleness of spirit;
respecting which the Duke Frederic afterwards writing seriously to Luther, exhorted him to moderate the asperity of his style.

It appears also, that Luther made a promise to Cardinal Cajetan, that he would maintain silence if his opponents would enter into a similar agreement; from which we
may clearly perceive, that at that time he had no intention of stirring up further commotions, but that he was desirous of peace: by degrees, however, his attention was
drawn to other subjects, as he was attacked on every hand, by illiterate adversaries.

Then followed disputations on "The Distinction between Laws Human and Divine," and, on "the Disgraceful Profanation of the Lord's Supper, by making a common
sale of it, and its perversion in other ways," herein the whole design of sacrifices was explained, and the use of sacraments set forth; and when, now, the pious in
monasteries found that the worship of images was to be relinquished, they began to decline from such an unhallowed devotion, Luther added to his "Explications of' the
Doctrine of Repentance," of the Remission of Sins," of "Faith" and "Indulgences," these additional subjects, "The Distinction between laws Human and Divine," "The
Doctrine of the Lord's Supper," with other sacraments, and also that "of Vows;" these were the main points of the controversy. Eccius at this time instituted an inquiry
into the extent of power possessed by the Bishop of Rome, for no other purpose than to excite the hatred of the Pope and of crowned heads against Luther.

Luther, however, retained unaltered the Apostles, the Nicene, and the Athanesian Creeds; but he explained in many of his writings to what extent, and on what
grounds, a change must needs be effected in human rites and traditions; what form of doctrine he wished to retain, and what administration of the sacraments he most
approved, were obvious from a confession which the Elector-John, Duke of Saxony, and Prince Philip Landgrave of Hesse, etc. presented to the Emperor Charles the
Fifth, at an imperial diet, in the year 1530, and are apparent both from the rites of the church in that city, and from the doctrine with which our church now resounds,
the chief of which is clearly comprehended in the confession.

I relate these circumstances, not only for the information of pious men as to the errors which Luther attacked and the idols which he removed, but to convince them that
he embraced every important doctrine of the Church, restored purity to its ritual, and exhibited models of reform such as is desirable in Christian churches; and it is well
that posterity should be made acquainted with the views held by Luther.

I here feel reluctant to mention those who first administered the Lord's supper in both kinds, those who first omitted private masses, and also what monasteries were
first deserted, for Luther disputed but little on these points before the convention which was held at Worms in the year 1521. He himself made no change in the
ceremonies, but during his absence Carolostadius and others did; and as he and his party caused some disturbance, Luther on his return, by a plain declaration of his
sentiments, testified what he approved and what he disapproved.

We know that statesmen are usually much prejudiced against innovations of all kinds, and must confess that discords often arise even in the discussion of important
topics, as amid the sad confusion of human things some evil will ever intervene. But nevertheless, in the church, it is imperative that we esteem the commands of God
before all worldly considerations. The eternal Father spake thus concerning His Son, "This is my beloved Son, hear Him." And he threatens with eternal wrath
blasphemers, that is to say, those who endeavor to destroy acknowledged truth, for which reason it became the incumbent and Christian duty of Luther, to censure
those pernicious errors which men of the Epicurean school. shamelessly augmented, and his auditors were necessarily compelled to agree with so correct a teacher.

If a total change be odious, if dissentions commonly prove injurious, as we now perceive with sorrow to be the case, then those who first propagated error, are as
much in fault as those who now with diabolical pertinacity maintain it.

I have dwelt on these subjects not for the purpose of defending Luther, but that pious minds both now and in after generations, may comprehend what is, and ever will
be the government of the true church: how from among this mass of iniquity, that is, the abominations of mankind, God by the voice of His Gospel, "which shines as a
light in a dark place," gathers the everlasting church unto Himself. For example in the times of the Pharisees, Zacharias, Elizabeth, Mary and many others, were
guardians of the oracles of God: again, before that time, there were many who offered prayer acceptably unto Him; some with more, others with less clearness, holding
the doctrines of the Gospel; and such was that aged man of whom I have spoken, as supporting Luther under his deep conflicts, and who was to him in some degree a
preacher of the true faith.
Copyright (c) 2005-2009, Infobase Media Corp.                                                                                                                 Page 3 / 8
Thus, that God may henceforward preserve this light in the hearts of many, let us ardently pray, as Isaiah did for his hearers, "Seal the law among my disciples." Finally,
it appears by this recital, that vain superstitions are not enduring, but that they shall be rooted up by an Almighty hand: these being the origin of dissentions, care is
light in a dark place," gathers the everlasting church unto Himself. For example in the times of the Pharisees, Zacharias, Elizabeth, Mary and many others, were
guardians of the oracles of God: again, before that time, there were many who offered prayer acceptably unto Him; some with more, others with less clearness, holding
the doctrines of the Gospel; and such was that aged man of whom I have spoken, as supporting Luther under his deep conflicts, and who was to him in some degree a
preacher of the true faith.

Thus, that God may henceforward preserve this light in the hearts of many, let us ardently pray, as Isaiah did for his hearers, "Seal the law among my disciples." Finally,
it appears by this recital, that vain superstitions are not enduring, but that they shall be rooted up by an Almighty hand: these being the origin of dissentions, care is
necessary lest errors should be taught in the church.

But to return to Luther; as he first entered on this cause, uninfluenced by private ambition, so, although he was of an ardent and choleric temperament, yet, being ever
mindful of his calling, he contended by argument alone, and forbade recourse to arms; thus be knew how to make a distinction .between functions of opposite
characters, between that of a bishop teaching in the church of God, and that of the magistrate who, in his proper office, restrains the people by the power of the sword.

And as Satan ever studies to distract the church by scandal, and to affix disgrace on the cause of God, whilst he rejoices in iniquity and delights in the transgressions
and ruin of miserable man; so on that occasion, be excited the instigators of seditious tumults, as Monitarius and others of the same opinions; these Luther severely
condemned, but he lent his own influence to honor and confirm all the bonds of social life. When I reflect however, that high ecclesiastics have often been deceived on
this question, I unhesitatingly conclude that a mind which so constantly abode within the bounds of its proper calling, must not only have been governed by human
wisdom, but guided also by light from above.

Thus then he dissented widely from the seditious teachers of this age, Monitarius and the Anabaptists, also from those Romish Bishops who most audaciously and
shamelessly affirmed that in connection with the gift of the ministry, committed to Peter by secret decrees, political power also was vested in him.

In fine, he exhorted all to "render unto God the things which be God's, and unto Caesar, the things which be, Caesar's;" that is, that in true repentance, in the
acknowledgment and promulgation of sound doctrine, in sincere prayer and in the maintenance of a good conscience, they should worship God, and that every man
should in the performance of his civil duties, submit himself unto Him. These were Luther's true principles, and to them he adhered,_he rendered to God the things that
be God's, he taught correctly, he prayed earnestly, and he possessed all the other graces essential in the man who is acceptable to God. Lastly, in political society he
ever avoided seditious counsels; and these virtues I regard with the greater admiration, as they cannot in this life be surpassed.

Although the name of Luther is deservedly of good report, since he reverently occupied his talent, above all must we render thanks unto God for that by this his servant,
He has restored to us the light of His Gospel; let us then retain the remembrance of his ministry, and spread his doctrines abroad. Unmoved as I am by the clamours of
Epicureans and hypocrites who either deride or condemn the plain truth, it is my decided opinion, that the catholic church accords in receiving the doctrine sounded
forth in our temples, as the voice of God, and that it is incumbent on us, that a due recognition of it should pervade our devotions as well as our entire lives: in short, that
this is the very doctrine, of which the Son of God says, "If a man love me he will keep my words, and my Father will love him and we will come unto him and make our
abode with him." I here speak of that profound doctrine as it is understood and explained in our churches by pious and learned men, for although some may expound it
more aptly than others, or one may sometimes speak with greater asperity than another, yet on the whole there is a general agreement among the wise and good, on
subjects of this character.

Whilst I have reflected much and frequently on the subject of doctrine, in times least, up to the days of the Apostles, I have plainly perceived that after the first reign of
purity had passed away, four remarkable changes in doctrine, followed. During the age of Origen, although there were some who thought correctly, amongst whom I
would place Methodius, for he discouraged the fantasies of Origen, yet in the minds of the people, he made the Gospel bend to Philosophy, that is to say, he
encouraged the opinion that the just exercise of reason, merits the remission of sins, and, that this is the justice of which it is said, "The just shall live by faith." At this
time the distinction between the law and the gospel, with the remembrance of apostolic truths, was entirely lost sight of; nor did the words Letter, Spirit, Justice and
Faith retain their original signification. Thus the proper use of words which are the signs of ideas, being lost, it became necessary that something should be devised in
their place. From these germs arose the Pelagian error, which was widely spread, so that although the Apostles had taught holy doctrine, drawn from the pure and
salutary fountains of gospel truth, Origen mingled therewith much impurity.

That the errors of this age might be corrected, at least in some degree, God raised up Augustine; he partially cleansed the sources, nor do I doubt that if he could pass a
judgment on the controversies of the present time, he would cast in his vote with us: certainly on the subjects of the Free Remission of Sins, Justification by Faith, the
Use of the Sacraments, and other points of less importance, he does think with us. For although in some parts of his writings, he expresses himself more distinctly than
in others, yet, if his reader will exercise reason and candour in judging him, he will perceive that his sentiments agree with our own; and, although our adversaries
sometimes quote passages taken from his writings, against us, and appeal loudly to the Fathers, they do it not from any regard for truth or antiquity, but like sycophants,
they invest images of the present day, with the authority of the ancients, to whom these images were unknown.

Nevertheless, the seeds of superstition appear to have existed even in the ages of the Fathers; thus Augustine established certain regulations respecting vows, although
he treats the subject with less austerity than others have done. The contamination of their own times always in some degree, affects even good men, because as we
naturally favor the existing customs of the country in which we have been nurtured; that expression of Euripedes is found to be true, "Every thing from the companion of
our childhood is sweet." But I could desire that all who boast of being followers of Augustine, would revert to his standing, opinions to the very genius of his mind, if I
may so speak, and not maliciously pervert mutilated expressions to their own views. And now light being revived through the writings of this author, be became a
blessing to posterity, for after him, Prosper, Maximus, Hugo, and others of a similar class, who were leading men in the schools, down to the time of Bernardus, closely
followed the institutes of Augustine. Meanwhile, however, the power and wealth of the Bishops increasing, there followed, as it were, an age of giants; unholy and
unlearned men reigned in the Church, of whom, some were accomplished in forensic learning, and in the arts of the Vatican.

Then arose the Dominicans and the Franciscans, who, when they beheld the pomp and luxury of the Bishops, whose dissolute manners had become obnoxious to them,
formed to themselves a more correct mode of life; and for the sake of discipline, they incarcerated themselves in Monasteries. Ignorance at first fostered superstition;
but when they afterwards saw that the studies in the schools were directed only to forensic learning since in Rome, at this time, the practice of the law augmented the
influence and wealth of many, they endeavored to call public attention to the study of theology.

But their wisdom failed them in this attempt. Albertus and his followers, who had embraced the opinions of Aristotle, began to convert the doctrines of the Church into
philosophy; and this fourth age was not only impure, but absolutely polluted; that is to say, it infused manifest idolatry into the fountains of Gospel Truth. And such
labyrinths of false sentiment are to be found in Thomas, Scotus, and similar writers, that wiser theologians have always felt the need of ft more simple and a purer
doctrine.

Nor can it be said without glaring effrontery, that such a reform was uncalled for; since it is evident that many of the sophisms contained in these disputations, were not
intelligible even to those who were conversant with such arguments. Hence it is plainly proved, that they are blindly devoted to idolatry who teach the virtue of sacrifices
as contained in works, who sanction the use of image worship, who deny the forgiveness of sin by grace through faith, and who in human ceremonies, make a sacrifice
of conscience; and there are truly other things yet more degrading, which cannot be told, and at which the whole frame shudders.

Let us therefore
 Copyright        give thanks Infobase
             (c) 2005-2009,    unto God,Media
                                         the eternal
                                                Corp.Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has been pleased by the ministry of Martin Luther, again to purifyPage
                                                                                                                                                             the sources
                                                                                                                                                                   4/8
of Evangelic Truth, and to restore sound doctrine to the Church. Whilst contemplating this theme, it behooves all pious men the world over to mingle their prayers and
their sighs, and to supplicate in fervency of spirit, that God will strengthen the work which He has begun in us, because of His Holy Temple.
intelligible even to those who were conversant with such arguments. Hence it is plainly proved, that they are blindly devoted to idolatry who teach the virtue of sacrifices
as contained in works, who sanction the use of image worship, who deny the forgiveness of sin by grace through faith, and who in human ceremonies, make a sacrifice
of conscience; and there are truly other things yet more degrading, which cannot be told, and at which the whole frame shudders.

Let us therefore give thanks unto God, the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has been pleased by the ministry of Martin Luther, again to purify the sources
of Evangelic Truth, and to restore sound doctrine to the Church. Whilst contemplating this theme, it behooves all pious men the world over to mingle their prayers and
their sighs, and to supplicate in fervency of spirit, that God will strengthen the work which He has begun in us, because of His Holy Temple.

"O Thou, the living and true God, the Eternal Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Author of all things and of Thy Church, Thine is the word and the promise, 'For my
name's sake I will do it, that they may not blaspheme.' To Thee I pray with my whole heart, for the sake of Thine own glory and that of Thy Son, that by the voice of
Thy Gospel, Thou wilt ever gather the Eternal Church unto Thyself; And for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, who was crucified for us, and rose again, our Mediator
and Intercessor, may it please Thee to reign in our hearts and minds by the Holy Ghost, that we may in sincerity offer up our prayers, and render service acceptable
unto Thee. Deign also to bless the pursuits of Philosophy, and direct and support those principles and that discipline which are the guardians of wisdom and the
protection of Thy Church. When Thou shalt have so built up the human race, that Thou shalt be universally acknowledged and adored; for which purpose Thou least
made Thyself known by such clear testimonies, oh, grant that this fold, in which Thy true doctrine is heard, may not he brought to desolation; and since Thy Son our
Lord Jesus Christ, when about to endure his agony, prayed for us, 'Father, sanctify them through Thy truth, Thy word is truth,' so, to the prayer of this our Great High
Priest, we join our supplications, that the light of Thy truth may for ever shine in the sons of men, to guide and govern them."

In prayer for these blessings, we have heard Luther daily engaged, and amid these devotions, his spirit was gently called from its mortal tenement, when he was in the
sixty-third year of his age.

Posterity possesses many of Luther's works, doctrinal and devotional. He published dialectic writings, which contain doctrine wholesome and necessary to man,
calculated also to enlighten sincere minds on the subjects of "Repentance," "Faith with its genuine fruits," (the use of the Sacraments," "the distinction between the Law
and the Gospel," and "between the Gospel and Philosophy," "on the dignity of political rank," and lastly, "on the most important articles which are essential to the
Church." He then added in which he refuted many pernicious errors; he also published; these are "enlarged illustrations of the Prophetic and Apostolic Scriptures," in
which class even his enemies confess, that he has excelled all previous commentators.

The value of these writings is appreciated by the religious world; but certainly in usefulness and laborious research, they do not surpass another work of his, "the
interpretation of the Old and New Testaments," the perspicuity of which is so great that his German version may serve as a commentary; nor is this publication a
commentary only, for it has very learned annotations, with a synopsis of the several parts subjoined; both of which exhibit a summary of heavenly doctrine, and inform
the reader on the subjects of the discourse so, that from these sources, the children of God may draw sure evidences of the truth.

Luther himself, wished that none should linger amid the products of his own mind, but was anxious to lead the attention of all, to the fountain-head of divine wisdom: he
wished that we might hear the voice of God, that it might in the minds of many, awaken the true faith, and prayer, that God might be truly glorified, and that many might
be made heirs of eternal life. .

And now it becomes us to acknowledge these desires and these more abundant labors, and to remember them as an example also, that each study according to his
talents, how he may best adorn the Church of Christ; for to these two great ends, our whole life with all its purposes and designs, should be referred; in the first place,
that we may show forth the glory of God, and in the next, that we may benefit His church: in allusion to the former, Paul says "Do all to the glory of God;" and the latter
is referred to in Psalm cxxii. "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem;" with a sweet promise added in the same verse, "They shall prosper that love Thee." These heavenly
commands and these promises invite all to an enlightened knowledge of Christian doctrines: they call upon us, to love the ministers of the Gospel, and those who teach
it in its purity; whilst they direct our studies and our labors to the propagation of sound doctrine, and to the maintenance of harmony in the Church of Christ.

DAILY AND FREQUENT PRAYER OF LUTHER.

"Establish in us O God! that which "Thou hast wrought, and perfect the work "which Thou hast begun in us to Thy "glory, Amen."

PART TWO
Philip Melancthon, to the Students in The University of Wittenburg, on the death of Luther, 1546 On our assembling to hear the Epistle of Paul to the Romans, at nine
o'clock in the forenoon, Dr. Philip Melancthon publicly recited to us the following address; saying at the same time, that he was induced to do so by the suggestion of
some learned professors, and that we being in possession of the true state of things, might be prepared to reject any incorrect statements which he foresaw would be in
circulation after Luther's death.

Most Noble Youths,

We have undertaken as you know, to deliver a critical exposition of the Epistle to the Romans, wherein is contained the true doctrine of the Son of God, which our
Heavenly Father has in peculiar mercy, laid open to us, at this time, through our revered Father and Preceptor, Dr. Martin Luther. But now alas! so deep a shade of
sorrow is cast over these writings, which but augment my grief, that I know not whether I shall be able hereafter to pursue the study of them in our college. I am anxious
however, at the request of my friends of the University, and that you may have a right understanding of the circumstances of Luther's death, to communicate to you the
following particulars, in order that you may not even entertain, much less circulate, reports which, as is so often the case, will probably now be current in society.

On the 17th of February, our Master and Teacher, a little before supper, was attacked by his usual complaint to which I remember he had occasionally been subject.
After supper a recurrence of the disorder took place, under the influence of which lie requested pemission to withdraw into an adjoining room, where he lay for nearly
two hours, until his sufferings increased. Doctor Jonas sleeping in the same room with him, Doctor Martin called him hastily, requesting him to rise and give orders that
Ambrosius, the servant who attended on the children, should make his private apartment warm: and having retired into it, Albert, the illustrious Count of Mansfield, with
his Countess, and many others, entered, the names of whom for brevity's sake, we omit. At length when he found that the close of his life was approaching, before four
o'clock on the following day, the 18th of February, he commended himself to God in the following prayer:-

"My heavenly Father, eternal and merciful God ! Thou has revealed unto me Thy dear Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, whom I have learned--whom I have proclaimed to
be my Lord--whom I love and whom I honor, as my precious Savior and Redeemer,--whom the ungodly persecute, dishonor, and blaspheme; take Thou my soul unto
Thyself.'' Three times he expressed these words.

"Into Thy hands I commit my spirit, Thou hast redeemed me, O God of Truth!"

"And God so loved the world," etc.
 Copyright (c) 2005-2009, Infobase Media Corp.
Amid  these prayers occasionally repeated, be was called to the one eternal assembly and to everlasting bliss, in which he is now enjoying the presence ofPage    5 / 8of
                                                                                                                                                           the Father,
the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, with that of all the Prophets and Apostles.
"Into Thy hands I commit my spirit, Thou hast redeemed me, O God of Truth!"

"And God so loved the world," etc.

Amid these prayers occasionally repeated, be was called to the one eternal assembly and to everlasting bliss, in which he is now enjoying the presence of the Father, of
the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, with that of all the Prophets and Apostles.

Alas, for the chariot of Israel and the horsemen thereof! Our Elijah is no more, he who guided and governed the Church in this decrepitude of the world. Human
sagacity could not have discovered the doctrines of the Remission of Sins, and of Faith in the Son of God; but He has been pleased to reveal them to us through the
medium of this, His servant, whom also we see that God has taken unto himself.

Let us therefore cherish his memory with that of the peculiar doctrine which he delivered to us, and let us be the more humbled in our spirits when we contemplate the
great calamities and the mighty revolutions which will probably follow this event.

I beseech Thee, O Son of God! Thou who wast crucified for us, and art now the risen Emmanuel, that Thou wilt govern, preserve, and defend Thy Church. Amen.

ELEGY ON THE DEATH
OF THE REV. MARTIN LUTHER D.D.

FROM THE LATIN OF PHILIP MELANCTHON.

Since Luther is no more, his cherished name Shall from our hearts, a deathless tribute claim. We hailed him minister of Christ, the Lord, Jesus he preached, with faith,
and taught his word. Luther is dead! and now the church in tears A mourner clothed in saddest garb appears. She weeps her loved preceptor now no more, Honoured
and dear, a father's name he bore. Fallen on the field the mighty chieftain lies, And Israel's voice proclaims his obsequies. Then let us bathe In tears the muse's lay And
publish forth our sorrows to the day It thus becomes us well-to weep and mourn Whilst, orphans in our grief, we dress affection's urn.

A FUNERAL ORATION ON THE REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER,

Pronounced AT Wittenberg, by Philip Melancthon Although amid this universal grief, my voice is impeded by sorrow and by tears, yet since in so large an assembly,
we are called upon for some expression of our feelings; let it not be after the manner of the heathen, a declamation in praise of the departed one, but rather a
commemoration in the audience of those now present of the wonderful pilotage of the church in all her perils; that we may call to mind on what account it behooves us
to mourn, what purposes we should ourselves most diligently pursue, and in what manner we should order our lives. For although irreligious men conceive that the
interests of this world are borne along in a giddy tide of confusion and uncertainty, yet, reassured as we are by the many indubitable testimonies of God, we make a
wide distinction between the church and the profane multitude, and we believe that she is indeed governed and upheld by the power of God: we clearly discern his
polity, we acknowledge the true helmsmen, and we watch their course, we choose also for ourselves, befitting leaders and teachers whom we devotedly follow and
revere. On these so weighty matters, it is necessary both to think and to speak, as often as mention is made of that revered man Dr. Martin Luther, our beloved father
and teacher; and whilst he has been the object of most cruel hatred to many, let us who know that he was a divinely inspired minister of the gospel, regard his memory
with love and esteem, and let us gather such testimonies as prove that his teaching was by no means a blind dissemination of seditious opinions, as the Epicureans give
out, but a demonstration of the will and of the true worship of God, an unfolding of the sacred records and a declaration of the word of God, that is of the gospel of
Jesus Christ.

In orations such as the present, much is usually said of the individual excellencies of those whom we wish to commend; passing however, in silence over this part of my
theme, it is my design to dwell principally on that main point, the call to gospel ministry; and here we may unite in opinion with all just thinkers, that if Luther has
illustrated a wholesome and necessary doctrine in the church, we ought to return thanks unto God, that He has been pleased to raise him up to this work, whilst his
personal labors, his faith, his constancy, and his other virtues are to be commended, and his memory to be held most dear by all good men. Let this therefore be the
beginning, of our oration.

The Son of God, as Paul says, sits on the right hand of the Eternal Father, and gives gifts unto men; these gifts are the voice of the Gospel and of the Holy Spirit, with
which, as He imparts them, He inspires Prophets, Apostles, Pastors and Teachers, and selects them from this our assembly, that is to say, from those who are yet in the
rudiments of divine knowledge, who read, who hear, and who love the prophetic and apostolic writings; nor does he often call to this warfare those who are in the
exercise of established power, but it even pleases him to wage war on these very men through leaders chosen from other ranks. It is cheering and instructive to take a
retrospect of the church throughout all past ages, and to contemplate the goodness of God who has sent out from its bosom gifted ministers in so unbroken a series,
that as the first of these have passed away, others have pressed closely in their footsteps.

The line of the first fathers is well worthy of our consideration. Adam, Seth, Enoch, Methusalem, Noe, Sem, and Abraham, who was raised up to be a fellow-helper of
Sem and his associate in the all-important work of spreading true religion; and although at this time Sem was still dwelling in the neighborhood of Sodom, the people
had lost the recollection both of his precepts and those of Noe, and were altogether abandoned to the worship of idols. To Abraham succeeded law and Jacob; next
Joseph, who kindled the light of truth throughout all Egypt, at that time the most flourishing kingdom in the world. After these, we read of Moses, Joshua, Samuel, and
David; then Elisha, of whose ministry the prophet Isaiah was a partaker; then Esdras, Onias, and in succession the Maccabees, Simeon, Zacharias, and John the
Baptist: and lastly, Christ and His Apostles. It is delightful to behold this unbroken chain, which is a clear testimony to the presence of God in his church.

After the Apostles followed a band, which although somewhat weaker, was nevertheless honored with the blessing of God. Polycarp, Irenaeus, Gregory the
Niocaesarien, Basilius, Augustinus, Prosper, Maximus, Hugo, Bernardus, Taulerus, and others; and although this later age has become more corrupt, yet God has
always preserved a remnant of the faithful, whilst it is evident that the light of the gospel has now been peculiarly manifested through the preaching of Luther.

He is therefore to be numbered with that blessed company, the excellent of the earth, whom God has sent forth for the gathering together and the building up of his
church, and whom we truly recognize as ornaments of the human race.

Solon, Themistocles, Scipio, Augustus, and others were indeed great men, who founded, states, or ruled over vast empires; yet do they rank far below our spiritual
leaders, Isaiah, John the Baptist, Paul and Luther.

It is also well that we should regard the grand disputations which have existed in the church, and in connection with this subject let us look at those themes of deep and
high import which have been brought to light by Luther, and which evince that the tenor of his life was worthy of our highest approbation. It is true that many exclaim
"the church is in confusion," saying that inextricable controversies are engendered in it; to these I answer, such is the mode of divine Government, for when the Holy
Spirit convicts the world, dissentions arise through the pertinacity of the wicked; and the guilt is on those who refuse to listen to the Son of God, and of whom our
Heavenly Father says, "Hear Him."

 Copyright
That Luther(c)   2005-2009,
             illustrated       Infobase
                         the essential    Media
                                       truths     Corp.
                                              of the Gospel is manifest, as the deepest shades had previously veiled its doctrines, in dispersing these he clearlyPage
                                                                                                                                                                   proved6to/ us
                                                                                                                                                                              8
the nature of sincere repentance, he showed us in whom we must seek refuge, and what is the sure consolation of the mind that trembles under a sense of the wrath of
God. He elucidated the doctrine of Paul which says, that man is justified by faith; he showed the difference between the Law and the Gospel, between Spiritual
"the church is in confusion," saying that inextricable controversies are engendered in it; to these I answer, such is the mode of divine Government, for when the Holy
Spirit convicts the world, dissentions arise through the pertinacity of the wicked; and the guilt is on those who refuse to listen to the Son of God, and of whom our
Heavenly Father says, "Hear Him."

That Luther illustrated the essential truths of the Gospel is manifest, as the deepest shades had previously veiled its doctrines, in dispersing these he clearly proved to us
the nature of sincere repentance, he showed us in whom we must seek refuge, and what is the sure consolation of the mind that trembles under a sense of the wrath of
God. He elucidated the doctrine of Paul which says, that man is justified by faith; he showed the difference between the Law and the Gospel, between Spiritual
righteousness and the Moral law; he pointed out the nature of true prayer, and he called back the church universal from that heathen madness which teaches that God,
is to be invoked even when the mind, oppressed with metaphysical doubts, is flying far from Him: he enforced on us the conviction that prayer is to be made in faith,
and in a good conscience, and he led us to the one Mediator, the Son of God sitting at the right hand of the Eternal Father, and interceding for us; not to those images
and departed mortals, to whom the ungodly world, with awful infatuation, is wont to perform its devotions. He also pointed out other sacred duties which are
acceptable to God, whilst he was himself careful to adorn and to preserve inviolate the institutions of civil life as no preceding writers had done; he also drew a line of
distinction between works necessary to be performed, and the puerile observances of human ceremonies, including there rights and established laws which impede the
offering of the heart to God. In order that this heavenly teaching might be transmitted unimpaired to posterity, lie translated the prophetic and apostolic writings into
German, which work he executed with such perspicuity, that this version alone imparts more light to the mind of the reader, than the perusal of many commentaries
would do. To this he added various expositions which, as Erasmus was accustomed to say, were far superior to any others then extant; and as it is related of the
builders of Jerusalem, that they wrought with one hand and held the sword in the other, so was he at the same time contending with the enemies of truth, and composing
expositions fraught with divine philosophy; whilst by his pious counsels he strengthened the minds of many.

Since the mystery of godliness lies far beyond the reach of human vision, as for instance, the doctrines of Faith, and of the Remission of Sins, we are constrained to
acknowledge that Luther was taught of God; and how many of us have witnessed there wrestlings in which be was himself instructed, and by which we must be
convinced that through faith alone we also can be heard and accepted of God. Therefore shall His people to all eternity celebrate the blessings which He has conferred
on the church by this His servant: first they will offer up thanksgivings to God, then they will acknowledge that they owe much to the labors of this our friend and
brother; although the irreligious who deride the church in general, say that these good deeds are but idle pastime or intoxicating madness.

Let it not be said that endless disputations have been raised, or that the apple of discord has been thrown by the church, as some falsely assert; nor have the enigmas of
the Sphynx been propounded by her, for to men of sense and piety who can give a candid judgment, it is by no means difficult on comparing opinions, to distinguish
those which accord from those which do not accord with heavenly doctrine; and indeed there is no doubt that in these controversies we discover the revelation of
Himself. For since it has pleased God to manifest Himself and His holy will in prophetic and apostolic writ, in which he has revealed himself, we cannot suppose that
His word is ambiguous like the leaves of the Sybil,_

"Which flit abroad, the sport of playful winds."

Others however, without any evil design, have complained that Luther was unduly severe; I do not myself offer an opinion on this subject, but answer I them in the
words of Erasmus: "God has administered to us of the present age, a bitter draught, on account of our abounding infirmities." But when he is pleased to raise up such an
instrument against the shameless and insolent enemies of truth, as when the Lord said to Jeremiah, "Behold I have given my words into thy mouth, that thou shouldest
destroy and build up," and when it is His pleasure to set as it were, His Gorgons in array against them, then it is a vain thing that they should expostulate with Him; for
He governs His church not by human counsels, neither truly are His ways our ways. It is however, no uncommon thing for minds of limited scope to undervalue the
more powerful energies with which others may be endowed, whether directed to good or evil purposes; thus it was with emotion that Aristides beheld Themistocles
undertaking and bringing to a happy issue, vast enterprises; and although he rejoiced in the felicity of the state, he was earnest to arrest that ardent spirit in its career.

Nor do I deny that strong and lively impulse often leads astray, since none who are subject to the infirmities of our nature, are without fault. If however, there be any
living of whom we may say as the ancients did of Hercules, Cimon and others, 'Unadorned indeed, but in all important points a good man,' then was Luther a just man,
and his name of good report; for in the church, if, as the apostle Paul says, "he war a good warfare, holding faith and a good conscience," then he pleases God and is to
be revered by us. And such we know Luther to have been, for whilst he steadfastly maintained sound doctrine he preserved the integrity of his own conscience: and
who that has known him can be ignorant with what large benevolence he was endowed, or forget his suavity in the intercourse of private life, and how far removed he
was from contention and strife, whilst to all his actions lie imparted the gravity that became his character, as is depicted in the following passage; "His manner was
dignified, and his discourse familiar;" or rather, all with him was in accordance with the language of Paul, "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest,
whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are of good report;" so that the asperity of which we have spoken, appears to have arisen from the love of truth, not from
a factious spirit, or from bitterness of feeling: of these things both we and many others have been witnesses. But if I were to undertake an eulogium on the remaining
points of Luther's life, a life which until the age of 63 was absorbed in subjects of the highest interest, and was passed in the pursuit of piety and of all that is noble and
good, in what lofty strains of eloquence might I not indulge. His was a mind in which we never traced the inroads of wandering lusts; no seditious counsels held their
seat there, on the contrary he rather advocated the laying down of arms, as he was unwilling to mingle with the interests of the church, schemes for the aggrandizement
either of himself or his friends. Indeed, I esteem his wisdom and his virtue at so high a price as to feel assured that human efforts alone could never have attained to
them. Thus it is essential that spirits bold, lofty, and ardent, such as every thing proves Luther's to have been, should be restrained by a power from on high.

And now what shall I say of his other virtues? I have myself often surprised him, when with weeping he has been engaged in offering up prayers for the whole church.
He devoted almost daily, a portion of time to the repetition of certain psalms with which amid his sighs and tears, he mingled his prayers; and be often said that he felt
indignant against those who through slothfulness of spirit, or on account of wordly occupations, say that the prayer of a single sigh is enough. He considered therefore,
that forms of prayer are prescribed to us by divine counsel, and that a perusal of them animates our minds even as our voices acknowledge the God whom we worship.

And often when weighty deliberations have arisen on the danger of the state, we have seen him endowed with a mighty potency of soul, unmoved by fear and
unsubdued by terror, for lie leaned on that sacred anchor which is the power of God; nor did he allow his faith therein to be shaken.

He was also distinguished for the acuteness of his perceptions, as by his own independent judgment lie could readily perceive the course to be pursued in cases of
difficulty. Nor was he as many think, negligent of the public weal, or inadvertent to the interests of others; on the contrary he could fully appreciate the welfare of the
community, whilst he most sagaciously perceived the sentiments and wishes of those with whom he mingled in social life. And although the genius of his mind was of a
lively order, he read with avidity ecclesiastical writings as well as history in general, from which, with a peculiar dexterity, he derived precedents adapted to the present
occasion.

Of his eloquence we possess enduring monuments, for in this science he undoubtedly equalled those to whom the highest palm in oratory has been conceded. We do
then for our own sakes, justly mourn that such a man, endowed with the loftiest grade of intellect, instructed in wisdom, matured by long experience, adorned with
many excellent and heroic virtues, and chosen by God for the building up of his church; that he who has embraced us all with a father's love, should have been thus
called away from our earthly fellowship. For we are like orphans deprived of an excellent and faithful parent; but whilst we bow to the will of God, let us not in the
memory of our friend allow his virtues, and the benefits which we have derived from his society to perish from amongst us. Let us rather bid him joy that he is now
participating in sweet and unrestrained communion with God, and with his Son our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the Prophets and Apostles; which fellowship he ever
sought and waited for through faith in the Son of God. In that blessed state he now receives the approval of God on the labors which he here sustained in the
propagation  of the
 Copyright (c)      gospel, with
                2005-2009,       the testimony
                             Infobase          also of the Church universal in heaven; there, set free from the shackles of mortality as from a prison, and having
                                         Media Corp.                                                                                                         Page  joined
                                                                                                                                                                      7/8
that company which is perfected in wisdom, he now sees, not as in a glass darkly, the essential character of God, the union of the two natures in His Son, and the whole
assembly of the gathered and redeemed church; whilst those divine real ties which he here knew but in part, which he briefly demonstrated, and which in faith he
contemplated, he now beholds with open face, and moved with ecstatic joy, in all the ardor of his soul he gives God thanks for his unspeakable gift. He learns why the
called away from our earthly fellowship. For we are like orphans deprived of an excellent and faithful parent; but whilst we bow to the will of God, let us not in the
memory of our friend allow his virtues, and the benefits which we have derived from his society to perish from amongst us. Let us rather bid him joy that he is now
participating in sweet and unrestrained communion with God, and with his Son our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the Prophets and Apostles; which fellowship he ever
sought and waited for through faith in the Son of God. In that blessed state he now receives the approval of God on the labors which he here sustained in the
propagation of the gospel, with the testimony also of the Church universal in heaven; there, set free from the shackles of mortality as from a prison, and having joined
that company which is perfected in wisdom, he now sees, not as in a glass darkly, the essential character of God, the union of the two natures in His Son, and the whole
assembly of the gathered and redeemed church; whilst those divine real ties which he here knew but in part, which he briefly demonstrated, and which in faith he
contemplated, he now beholds with open face, and moved with ecstatic joy, in all the ardor of his soul he gives God thanks for his unspeakable gift. He learns why the
Son of God is called the Word, and the likeness of the Eternal Father; and in what way Holy Spirit is the bond of mutual love, no only between the Eternal Father and
the Son, but also between them and the Church. He had learned whilst here on earth which be the first principles of the oracles of God and often did he most wisely
and weightily descant on these highest themes; on the distinction between true and false prayer, and on the knowledge of God and of divine manifestations; also on
distinguishing the true God from false deities.

There are many in this assembly, who in times past, have heard him thus express himself, "You shall see the heavens opened, and the angels of God ascending and [de]
scending upon the Son of Man." Thus he delighted first to instill into the minds of his hearers this most full consolation, which declares that heaven is opened, that is to
say, that there is a way made for us to God, that the barrier of divine wrath is removed as we flee for refuge to his Son; that God holds near communion with us, and
that those who seek him in prayer are received, governed and kept by him. Luther admonished us that this divine promise, which infidels declare to be fabulous, is and
must be opposed to human doubts, and to those fears which deter diffident minds from venturing to call upon God, or to put their trust in him; for he said that the angels
ascending and descending on the body of Christ, are the ministers of the gospel who with Christ for their leader, first ascend to God and receive from him the gifts of
the Gospel, and of the Holy Spirit, and afterwards descend, that is to fulfill their duty of teaching amongst men. He also added this interpretation, that those heavenly
spirits themselves, whom we usually call angels, beholding the Son are enabled to comprehend and to rejoice in the mysterious union of the two natures, and as they are
soldiers of their Lord in defense of His Church, so are they guided and governed as by the signal of His hand. Now is our departed friend himself a spectator of these
most sublime visions, and as he once among the ministers of the Gospel, ascended and descended with Christ for his leader, so now be descries angels sent on
embassies by their Lord, and enjoys in common with them, the absorbing contemplation of divine wisdom and of the works of God.

Let us call to mind with what delight he has recited to us the polity, the purposes, the dangers, and the deliverances of the prophets, and with what erudition he was
wont to trace the history of the church in all ages; thus it is evident that his heart glowed with no common emotion when speaking of those favored servants of the Lord.
The spirits of these he now embraces, with delight he listens to their living words, and with them he speaks face to face, whilst they with transport bail him as their
fellow, and with one heart and one voice give thanks unto God for having thus gathered and preserved his church.

Therefore we doubt. not that Luther is happy: we do indeed, mourn our bereavement, and whilst we bow to the fiat which has called him hence, we know it to be the
will of God that we retain in our memories the virtues and the benefactions of this his servant.

Let us now be faithful to our trust. We must acknowledge that he was a hallowed instrument of God. Let us then devotedly embrace his doctrines, and strive to
resemble him in those graces which are essential to our more humble walk, the fear of God, faith and fervency in prayer, soundness in ministry, purity, vigilance in
avoiding seditious counsels, and an ardent thirst for knowledge. And as we are called upon to turn our thoughts with intentness and frequency towards those leaders in
the church whose histories have been transmitted to us, as Jeremiah, John the Baptist, and Paul, so let us often dwell on the doctrine and experience of Luther. Let us
now add the tribute of thanksgiving and prayers which are due from this assembly, and let us all unite in this devotion.

"We give thanks unto Thee, oh omnipotent God! the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and Founder of Thy church, with Thy co-eternal Son our Lord Jesus
Christ and the Holy Spirit, wise, good, merciful, a true Judge, powerful and uncontrolled; in that Thou art by Thy dear Son, gathering unto Thyself an inheritance from
amongst the human race, and art preserving the ministry of Thy gospel, for which Thou hast at this time raised up Luther. We beseech Thee that thou wilt henceforth
sustain and govern thy church, and that thou wilt seal in us the true doctrine, as Isaiah prayed for his disciples. Deign Thou to quicken our hearts by Thy Holy Spirit, that
we may offer prayer acceptably unto Thee, and that we may order our lives in Thy fear."

In conclusion, as we are aware that the loss from amongst us of those who have directed us in our earthly course, often proves to survivors, the watchword of
impending calamities: I would myself, with all to whom is committed the gift of teaching, implore you to consider to what the world now stands exposed. On the one
hand the Turks are ravaging, on the other contending parties threaten us with a civil war; every where indeed, we trace the empire of misrule; and now that the enemies
of the church no longer fear the power of Luther, they will doubtless with the greater daring, lay waste the doctrine which has been delivered to us by divine authority.

That God may avert these evils, let us be more diligent in regulating our lives and directing our pursuits, and let us ever hold this sentiment fixed in our minds, so that
whilst we retain, hear, learn, and love the pure truths of the Gospel, we may ourselves constitute the house and church of God: as the Son of God himself says, "If any
man love me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him and make our abode with him." Encouraged by this cheering promise of
our blessed Lord, let us incite one another to the acquiring of heavenly wisdom, and let us not forget that human interests and human institutions are to be respected for
the sake of his church. Let us realize to our minds, that future eternity to which God has called us, who indeed has not in vain revealed Himself to us by such illustrious
testimonies, neither has he sent his Son in vain, but He truly loves and preserves those who magnify His grace.

Amen.




Copyright (c) 2005-2009, Infobase Media Corp.                                                                                                                Page 8 / 8
