The Grave of False Theology

Modern Theology is the First Grave.

...that one need not renounce the goods of this world to follow this decree of JESUS CHRIST; that it is enough to leave them in heart and desire, thereby flattering ourselves and making ourselves believe that we have left them in affection, while we nevertheless remain firmly attached to them. For if it were true that we had renounced the goods of the world, we would not spend the entire time of our lives gathering and preserving them, as most people are seen to do, who seem to have nothing more to do in the world than to apply themselves to how they might gain money. All their toil and labor have no other goal than this, and these theologians themselves study for the sole purpose of being raised to some station or dignity through which they can gain money; but if they learned from their lessons original: "Lectionen," referring to university lectures or readings to leave everything that one possesses, just as JESUS CHRIST taught, they would condemn themselves, and would first have to actually step away from all that which they possess.

5. These examples would be more powerful sermons than those delivered with beautiful words; but as long as they stick to words, they fill the spirits of their listeners with wind A metaphor for empty, useless vanity and keep them from taking up the means by which they can become true Christians. For because all these teachers instruct Christians that they may trade well and conduct business to gather money—indeed even to gain as much as is possible—and that it is permitted to strive for the status, honor, and reputation of this world, while still being allowed to have one's pleasures and all magnificent delights; who then, in such a case, would want to embrace the spirit of Gospel poverty original: "Evangelischen Armuht," the theological ideal of living simply and without wealth as Christ did which JESUS Christ taught?