Tracts & Letters (Vol 5) - Calvin - II - Letters CLXIII to CLXXXII

Required reading
Tracts and Letters (Volume 5) by John Calvin (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Letters CLXIII to CLXXXII.

My summary
Today we read letters from 1546 addressed to Farel, Amy Perrin, Viret, Monsieur De Falais, Madame De Falais, Farel, John Frellon and Theodore Vitus.

The content of today's letters included:
(i) further trouble at Geneva, particularly involving Perrin;
(ii) seeking a wife for Viret;
(iii) Calvin's writings;
(iv) rumours of wars.

What grabbed me
So much of today's correspondence was concerned with setting Viret up with a wife. 

I particularly liked this appeal from Calvin to Monsieur De Falais: 'You know that our brother Viret is about to marry. I am in as great anxiety about it as himself. We have plenty of wives here, both at Lausanne and at Orbe ; but yet there has not hitherto appeared a single one with whom I should feel at all satisfied. While we have this matter in hand, I would beseech you earnestly, if you have remarked any one in your quarter who appears to you likely to suit him, that you would please let me know of it. I have not thought fit to apply to any other than yourself, seeing that every one has not the prudence which is herein required. You may reply to me, that I am at least acquainted with some one in your neighbourhood; but I shall not venture to breathe a word before having your opinion, which you can tell me in one word, for I shall hold your silence for a non placet. I have not felt the least difficulty in addressing you privately in regard to this, although the subject may be rather delicate, for the necessity of the case would excuse me, were I even somewhat importunate, because there was no one else in whom it appeared safe to confide ; and I am well aware that, for your part, knowing of how much consequence the marriage of such a man is for the Church of God, you would not spare yourself any pains therein. Indeed, I would not hinder your acting directly for him, supposing that a suitable party can be found there ; but in regard to asking advice, I have taken for granted that you will allow me that liberty. '

Calvin is right.  The marriage of a minister has great consequence for the church of God.

Thankfully I have a wife that is a wonderful helpmate.

Next week's reading
Read Letters CLXXXIII to CCI.

Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.