These sermons from the most important festivals in the year we leave out, dear reader, because we are concerned that they were written by some at the time when I preached them, might be printed at some point, through avarice or disfavor, behind our knowledge and will; as has happened to me many times so far. And not only that, but they also add what they want, and only mangle my
*) Cf. Walch XI Forewords 36 and Erl. A. 7, 16.
D. Red.
Sermons, that I do not understand them myself, and yet they bear my name. I allow myself to be presented to the same, that these, all here, go out with us overlooked and prepared: whoever likes it, may use the same; for I respect that they should also be useful to those who still think much of the saints' merits. Since it is better to preach the gospel at the saints' feast, as they are placed, than to talk about lazy, clumsy legends, since the people cannot learn anything from them.
is deceived. Although it would be desirable, without this, for someone of understanding to take the trouble and purify the legends of the saints; for some of them have very fine sayings and works in them, which are not worthy of faith.
The same and similar, although almost little; but still good chunks and lumps, which are left over from the abundance of the dear saints. God's grace be with us all, amen.