We conclude, therefore, that righteousness indeed beginneth through faith, and by the same we have the first fruits of the Spirit; but because faith is weak, it is not made perfect without God’s imputation. Wherefore faith beginneth righteousness, but imputation maketh it perfect unto the day of Christ. When reason heareth this, by-and-by it is offended: it rageth, and uttereth all its malice against God, saying: are then my good
works nothing? Have I labored and borne the burden and heat of the day in vain? (St. Matthew 20:11) Hereof rise those uproars of nations, kings, and princes, against the Lord and His Christ. (Psalm 2:2)
Martin Luther, Kregel, Galatians 3:6, p. 128.
