30, having traveled via Frankfurt, where they had stayed from approximately April 25 to June 11, and had attended a meeting of the Smalcaldic League.2 Clemen argues that apter the discussions in Wittenberg had been ended, and for reasons that are not absolutely clear, Elector John Frederick approached Luther through Francis Burchart with the question whether further concessions to Henry VIII could be made.3
Letter No. 273 is Luther's reply to the Elector's inquiry. Luther emphatically points out that the theological position set forth in the Wittenberg Articles must be maintained even though theological formulations might be changed, that patience regarding the practical application of doctrine has to be exercised, and that issues pertaining to ceremonies might in due time be properly handled by reasonable rulers. At this point, Luther argues, one should not worry about ceremonies as long as the proper foundation of the faith is being laid. The political problem, that is, whether the Smalcaldic League ought to enter into an alliance with Henry VIII if the King does not accept all the articles, is up to the politicians to decide, says Luther, though he points out that it seems to him to be dangerous to enter into an alliance if the hearts of those entering are not united.
On Francis Burchart, see p. 80, n. 10.
Text in German: WA, Br 7, 403–404.4
Since my Most Gracious Lord5 has requested an answer to the question of how far one could go in making concessions to the King of England regarding the articles, it is my judgment, dear Mr. Vice-Chancellor, that in this matter we are unable to concede anything beyond what has been already conceded.6 If one wishes to talk about the issues or to formulate the results in different words it suits me fine (so that we do not appear to be contemptuous of the ability7 of other people).8 Yet it is impossible that the articles9 and the central points be believed or taught differently. Were it otherwise, it certainly would have been easier for us at Augsburg10—and might still be today—to become one with the pope and with the Emperor; further, it would be a disgrace for us not to be willing to concede to the Emperor and to the pope what we would now concede to the King. Of course it is true that one must patiently realize that in England not everything can be abruptly put into practice according to the teaching Oust as among us it also did not go swiftly). Nevertheless the central points11 must not be changed or abandoned. Ceremonies are temporal matters, and in time they can be handled correctly by reasonable rulers; therefore there is no need to quarrel or worry a lot at this time about ceremonies, as long as the correct foundation is being laid.12 But whether the alliance with the King should be initiated13 in the event that the King does not agree with us on all articles—that is a matter I leave to the dear lords,14 together with my Most Gracious Lord, to consider because it is a secular matter; yet it seems to me to be dangerous externally to make an alliance if the hearts are not united. But I shall not insist on my judgment; God, if he intends to be gracious, certainly knows how to use the thoughts of godly people, of the enemies, and of all people for the best results.
Written at Wittenberg, April 20, [Wittenberg,] June 10, 1536 Recommending Kilian Zimmermann, who is searching for a place to work, Luther informs Spalatin that there are no jobs left open in Wittenberg since so many poor people from other places have come to Wittenberg in search of a way to make a living. Then Luther briefly mentions the execution of Anne
Boleyn. Ending his letter, Luther promises to write as soon as possible about Spalatin's "Asmodeus," extends greetings to Spalatin's wife, and encourages the Spalatins to endure patiently the insults of Spalatin's mother-in-law.
On George Spalatin, see LW 48, 8 f.
Text in Latin: WA, Br 7, 430.1
To the excellent man of true godliness, George Spalatin, Master [of Arts],2 a most faithful servant of Christ, my dearest brother in the Lord
Grace and peace in Christ! Excellent Spalatin! Here comes Kilian Zimmermann,3 who either has been expelled or is fleeing from Glauchau,4 and has asked for help in finding some kind of job. But since so many poor are streaming together here from all over, it is absolutely impossible to find any jobs.