A06521:261
Special and chosen sermons of D. Martin Luther collected out of his writings and…
Special and chosen sermons of D. Martin Luther collected out of his writings and preachings for the necessary instruction and edification of such, as hunger and seek after the perfect knowledge and inestimable glory which is in Christ Jesus, to the comfort and salvation of their souls. Englished by VV.G.Special and chosen sermons of D. Martin Luther collected out of his writings and preachings for the necessary instruction and edification of such, as hunger and seeke after the perfect knowledge and inestimable glorie which is in Christ Iesu, to the comfort and saluation of their soules. Englished by VV.G.
London: printed by Thomas Vautroullier, 1578
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
IN this text is set forth unto us an example of a constant and steadfast faith. For this woman did so persevere, that she overcame three most sharp conflicts, and notably teacheth us, what is the quality and proper virtue of a true & right faith.1 Which in deed is a certain trust, and most deeply settled in the mind, of the divine goodness and grace, known and made manifest by the word of God. For Mark mentioneth that she heard the report of Jesus, without doubt good and joyful, that he is a bountiful man, and marvellous ready to help every one. That report was good tidings & the word of grace unto her, whereupon also this her faith did begin. For unless she had believed that she also might be made partaker of Christs bountifulness and goodness, she would not have so followed him, or cried after him. Which is that whereof we have often admonished,2 & which we are taught Rom. 10. that faith is by hearing. Wherefore the word ought always to go before, and give the beginning of salvation. But how came it to pass, whereas many other also heard the same report of our Saviour Jesus, yet they followed him not, yea they quite despised that report? I answer. They that are not sick, as they have no need of the Physician, so neither are they desirous of him. But this woman was afflicted and felt her necessity, yea that report was so joyful unto her, that she being stirred up thereby, did follow Christ, running after such a pleasant savour. Cant. 1.3 Wherefore Moses must alway go before, who may teach us to feel sin, whereby grace may be wished for and desired of us. It is in vain therefore, although Christ be preached to be loving, and to be desired and longed for, if a man be not before humbled through knowledge of him self, and made desirous of Christ, according to the song of Mary: The Lord hath filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he hath sent empty away. Now all these things are written for the consolation & lifting up of them which be miserable, poor, needy, oppressed with sins, and abjects, that they may know to whom they may fly in all distress, and where they may seek for help and safety.