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Chapter 8—Progress of the Reformation
Luther’s mysterious disappearance excited consternation
throughout all Germany. Inquiries concerning him were heard ev-
erywhere. Even his enemies were more agitated by his absence than
they could have been by his presence. The wildest rumors were
circulated, and many believed that he had been murdered. There was
great lamentation, not only by his avowed friends, but by thousands
who had not openly taken their stand with the Reformation. Many
bound themselves by a solemn oath to avenge his death.
The Romanists saw with terror to what a pitch had risen the
feeling against them. Though at first exultant at the supposed death
of Luther, they now desired to hide from the wrath of the people.
Those who were enraged against him when he was at large, were
filled with fear now that he was in captivity. “The only way of
extricating ourselves,” said one, “is to light our torches, and go
searching through the earth for Luther, till we can restore him to a
nation that
will
have him.” The edict of the emperor seemed to fall
powerless. The papal legates were filled with indignation as they
saw that it commanded far less attention than did the fate of Luther.
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The tidings that he was safe, though a prisoner, calmed the fears
of the people, while it still further aroused their enthusiasm in his
favor. His writings were read with greater eagerness than ever before.
Increasing numbers joined the cause of the heroic man who had, at
such fearful odds, defended the word of God. The Reformation was
constantly gaining in strength. The seed which Luther had sown
sprung up everywhere. His absence accomplished a work which
his presence would have failed to do. Other laborers felt a new
responsibility, now that their great leader was removed. With new
faith and earnestness they pressed forward to do all in their power,
that the work so nobly begun might not be hindered.
But Satan was not idle. He now attempted what he has attempted
in every other reformatory movement,—to deceive and destroy the
people by palming off upon them a counterfeit in place of the true
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