which it is adorned and sanctified, so that it is not only placed on an
equality with other estates, but that it precedes and surpasses them
all, whether they be that of emperor, princes, bishops, or whoever they
please. For both ecclesiastical and civil estates must humble
themselves and all be found in this estate as we shall hear. Therefore
it is not a peculiar estate, but the most common and noblest estate,
which pervades all Christendom, yea which extends through all the
world.

In the second place, you must know also that it is not only an
honorable, but also a necessary state, and it is solemnly commanded by
God that, in general, in all conditions, men and women, who were
created for it, shall be found in this estate; yet with some exceptions
(although few) whom God has especially excepted, so that they are not
fit for the married estate, or whom He has released by a high,
supernatural gift that they can maintain chastity without this estate.
For where nature has its course, as it is implanted by God, it is not
possible to remain chaste without marriage. For flesh and blood remain
flesh and blood, and the natural inclination and excitement have their
course without let or hindrance, as everybody sees and feels. In
order, therefore, that it may be the more easy in some degree to avoid
unchastity, God has commanded the estate of matrimony, that every one
may have his proper portion and be satisfied therewith; although God's
grace besides is required in order that the heart also may be pure.

From this you see how this popish rabble, priests, monks, and nuns,
resist God's order and commandment, inasmuch as they despise and forbid
matrimony, and presume and vow to maintain perpetual chastity, and,
besides, deceive the simple-minded with lying words and appearances
[impostures]. For no one has so little love and inclination to chastity