To the Christian Reader

As I, Master The Latin 'M.' stands for Magister, a title for someone who has earned a Master of Arts degree. Theophilus Philaleth A pseudonym meaning 'Theophilus, lover of truth.', Citizen of the City of Christ original: "Christopolitanus." This likely refers to the "Christianopolis," a famous Protestant utopian city described by the theologian Johann Valentin Andreae., after offering my proper service and all good wishes, cannot hide my Christian, sincere, and well-meaning intention: that these two writings have now passed through many hands for a couple of years and have provoked varying judgments original: "judicia" from their readers. Since much depends on this question—that it be thoroughly examined according to God’s Word, and that the right decision original: "decision" be established with irrefutable reasons original: "rationibus"—I have until now frequently and often wished that both considerations The "two writings" mentioned are likely legal or theological opinions on a specific dispute. might be brought to the light of day original: "Tagliecht". This is so that other theologians original: "Theologi" or legal scholars original: "Rechtsgelahrten" might be moved to bring forth their thoughts on this question as well, and by their agreement original: "consensu" or disagreement original: "dissensu", either strengthen one opinion or abolish the other.