I knew before that Mosellanus[1] agreed with Erasmus about predestination, for he is altogether an Erasmian. I think, on the contrary, that Erasmus knows less about predestination, or seems to know less, than even the schools of the sophists have known, nor is there any reason why I should fear my own downfall if I do not change my opinion on this subject. Erasmus is to be feared neither in this nor in anything else that pertains to Christian doctrine. Truth is mightier than eloquence; the Spirit stronger than genius; faith greater than learning; and, as Paul says,[2] "The foolishness of God is wiser than men." The eloquent Cicero was often beaten in the courts by less eloquent men; Julian[3] was more eloquent than Augustine. In a word, truth conquers lying eloquence even though it only stammers, as it is written,[4] "Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings hast thou perfected strength, to destroy the enemy and the avenger."
I shall not provoke Erasmus, but if I am provoked once and again I shall strike back. I think he is unwise to array the power of his eloquence against me, for I fear that he will not find in me another Lefèvre,[5] nor will he be able to glory over me as he glories over him, saying, "Everybody is congratulating me on conquering the Frenchman." If he casts the die he will see that Christ does not fear either the gates of hell or the powers of the air, and poor stammerer though I am, I shall encounter the eloquent Erasmus with all confidence, caring nothing for his authority or reputation, or for his good will. I know the man, just as we know the plots of Satan, but I expect him to reveal more clearly from day to day whatever he has against me.
I have told you this at some length so that you may not be anxious or fearful on my account, and may not be alarmed by other people's high-sounding bombast. Greet Mosellanus, for I do not hold it against him that he follows Erasmus rather than me. Nay, tell him to be right boldly Erasmian. The
