Selections from the Table Talk of Martin Luther by Martin Luther
page 82 of 129 (63%)
page 82 of 129 (63%)
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Magistrates belong not to the fifth Commandment.
Wrath is forbidden in every man, except in the magistrates. All occasions of death are forbidden. Matrimony proceedeth freely in every state and calling. Matrimony is necessary and commanded. Matrimony forbidden and disallowed is against God's command. Matrimony is a blessed state, and pleasing to God. To steal is what one taketh unjustly. Unfaithfulness is also stealing. Thieving is the most common trade in the world. Great thieves go scot-free, as the Pope and his crew. Falseness and covetousness prosper not. Backbiting is meddling with God's judgment. Censuring, and to speak evil behind one's back, belongeth only to the magistrates. We must censure and reprove no man behind his back. |
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