Note 904 — Chapter XXXVIII · END OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM. THE CHURCH-UNSEEN AND THE VISIBLE CHURCH-BY-LAW

To Spalatin, Nov. 11, 1525. This is one of the answers he gave to opponents who say, “neminem debere cogi ad fidem et evangelion,” and “principes in externis solum ius habere.” To the latter he replies: “principes cohibent externas abominationes,” and goes on to add: “Cum igitur ipsimet [adversarii] fateantur, in externis rebus esse ius principum, ipsi sese damnant.” If they wanted an example let them remember Christ Who drove the sellers out of the Temple. This he wrote, relying on the favour which the new Elector had extended to his cause: “Nosti quantum princeps iste noster est evangelii studiosus,” so he remarks with satisfaction. “Briefwechsel,” 5, p. 271.