perfect than any hermits. But the monks [especially the Barefoot
monks] have spread this outward hypocrisy before the eyes of men, so
that it could not be seen in what things true perfection exists.
With what praises have they brought forward this communion of
property, as though it were evangelical! But these praises have the
greatest danger, especially since they differ much from the
Scriptures. For Scripture does not command that property be common,
but the Law of the Decalog, when it says, Ex. 20, 15: Thor shalt not
steal, distinguishes rights of ownership, and commands each one to
hold what is his own. Wyclif manifestly was raging when he said that
priests were not allowed to hold property. There are infinite
discussions concerning contracts, in reference to which good
consciences can never be satisfied unless they know the rule that it
is lawful for a Christian to make use of civil ordinances and laws.
This rule protects consciences when it teaches that contracts are
lawful before God just to the extent that the magistrates or laws
approve them.

This entire topic concerning civil affairs has been so clearly set
forth by our theologians that very many good men occupied in the
state and in business have declared that they have been greatly
benefited, who before, troubled by the opinion of the monks, were in
doubt as to whether the Gospel allowed these civil offices and
business. Accordingly, we have recounted these things in order that
those without also may understand that by the kind of doctrine which
we follow, the authority of magistrates and the dignity of all civil
ordinances are not undermined, but are all the more strengthened [and
that it is only this doctrine which gives true instruction as to how
eminently glorious an office, full of good Christian works, the
office of rulers is]. The importance of these matters was greatly