all things be done decently and in order’ (1 Cor. 14:40). We all have this power, but let no one presume to exercise it publicly, except he be called and chosen for this office by the congregration. But in private we may use this power. If, for instance, my brother comes to me, saying: ‘Dear Brother, I am vexed in my conscience, give me a word of absolution,’ I am free to do this and tell him the Gospel, how that he should take hold of Christ’s work, believing that the righteousness of Christ is