Ratio ineundae Concordiae inter Ecclesias reformatas, sive, quibus modis occurri possit mirificis artibus, quibus pontificii per quosdam imprudentes theologos universas Christi ecclesias potissimum autem et primum Germanicas pessundare conantur

The author of this writing, kind reader, first deplores the most sorrowful calamities by which the Christian Republic is being overturned, and clearly shows that these evils arise mostly from the contentions existing among theologians who profess the Reformed religion. II. He reverently and earnestly begs and exhorts the Evangelical Kings, Princes, and Potentates to recognize correctly and integrally the causes of the controversies that exist in religion, so that they may the more surely and easily discern those things which are necessary for salvation from those which are not necessary. For he shows manifestly that these controversies among theologians are primarily about matters not necessary for salvation. III. He proposes easy and customary means by which these controversial matters might be composed. IIII. He demonstrates clearly that some theologians have hitherto disturbed the Republic and hindered the progress of true religion through insults, calumnies, detractions, lies, and similar insane affections of proud, ambitious, and contentious men. But now, in fact, certain ones are applying themselves with the greatest care to the task of setting Evangelical Kings and Princes against one another, and of disturbing the peaceful churches under the pretext of establishing peace, so that, distracted and divided by these dissensions and contentions, they may be all the more easily oppressed and thoroughly overturned by their enemies. But since these atrocious and horrible counsels and actions are instituted and promoted by wondrous art and singular craft, he contends with the greatest prayers for the Evangelical Kings, Princes, and Potentates that, having duly perceived these things, if they wish the Republic to be safe, if they wish to retain the liberty of the Gospel, and to free themselves from the execrable Papal servitude, and to retain a pure conscience, they should maturely avert those things which are imminent and will certainly happen to them, unless they are met in a timely manner. May God the best and greatest illuminate their minds and move their hearts so that, having truly recognized the stratagems of the adversaries, they may diligently and sincerely perform those things which pertain to promoting the glory of Christ, their own salvation, and the confirmation of the Republic. Amen.

Circular stamp of the Bibliotheca Genevensis featuring a shield with a key and half-eagle.