It is not on their own account that we condemn them,
but on account of this impious addition to them and the perverse notion
of seeking justification by them. These things cause them to be only
good in outward show, but in reality not good, since by them men are
deceived and deceive others, like ravening wolves in sheep's clothing.
Now this leviathan, this perverted notion about works, is invincible
when sincere faith is wanting. For those sanctified doers of works
cannot but hold it till faith, which destroys it, comes and reigns in
the heart. Nature cannot expel it by her own power; nay, cannot even see
it for what it is, but considers it as a most holy will. And when
custom steps in besides, and strengthens this pravity of nature, as has
happened by means of impious teachers, then the evil is incurable, and
leads astray multitudes to irreparable ruin. Therefore, though it is
good to preach and write about penitence, confession, and satisfaction,
yet if we stop there, and do not go on to teach faith, such teaching
is without doubt deceitful and devilish. For Christ, speaking by His
servant John, not only said, "Repent ye," but added, "for the kingdom of
heaven is at hand" (Matt. iii. 2).
For not one word of God only, but both, should be preached; new and old
things should be brought out of the treasury, as well the voice of
the law as the word of grace. The voice of the law should be brought
forward, that men may be terrified and brought to a knowledge of their
sins, and thence be converted to penitence and to a better manner of
life.
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