shame, reject the doctrine of the Law, whereas the same is both
necessary and profitable. But they see not the effect, the need,
and the fruit thereof. St. Austin did picture the strength, the
office and operation of the Law, by a very fit similitude, namely,
that it discovereth our sins, and God's wrath against sin, and
placeth them in our sight; for the Law is not in fault, but our evil
and wicked nature, even as a heap of lime is still and quiet until
water be poured thereon, but then it beginneth to smoke and to burn,
not that it is the fault of the water, but it is the nature and kind
of the lime, which will not endure water; but if oil be poured upon
it, then it lieth still and burneth not. Even so it is with the Law
and Gospel. It is an exceedingly fair similitude.


Of the Children's Faith.

The little children, said Luther, do stand on the best terms with
God Almighty concerning their lives and faith. We old doting fools
do torment ourselves and have sorrow of heart with our disputings,
touching the Word, whether it be true or not: "How can it be
possible?" etc. But the children with simple pure faith do hold the
same to be certain and true, without all doubting.

Now, if we intend to be saved, we must, according to their example,
give ourselves only to the Word. But the wicked and crafty spirit,
before we be aware, can, master-like, draw the same away from us, by
presenting new dealings and business to keep us in action.
Therefore best it were for us soon to die, and to be covered over
with shovels.