By Jacob Boehme
43. I have no controversy with the Children of God, by reason of the variety, and diversity of their gifts; I can reconcile them all in my self [I can make a good construction, and understanding of them to my self]. I only bring them to the Centre; and there I have the proof, and touchstone of all things. Now then if you will imitate and follow me, then you shall find it to be my experience; and afterward perhaps better understand what I have written.
44. A real true Christian hath no controversy or contention with anybody, for in the resignation in Christ, he dyeth from all controversy and strife; he asketh no more after the way of God, but wholly surrenders himself to the Mother; namely, unto the spirit of Christ; and whatsoever it doth with him it is all one to him; be it prosperity or adversity in this world, life or death; it is all alike unto him; no adversity or calamity reacheth the new man, but only the old man of this world; with the same the world may do what it pleaseth; it belongeth unto the world, but the new man belongeth to God.
"The Epistles of Jacob Behmen", aliter, the teutonicus philosophus,
very usefull and necessary for those that read his writings,
and are full of excellent and plaine instructions how to attaine to the life of Christ.
London, 1649, John Sparow's first English Edition,
Printed by M. Simmons for Gyles Calvert,
Translated out of the German by John Ellistone.
Excerpt from Epistle 2, paragraphs 43 & 44.
