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Chapter 48—Progress of the Reformation
A new emperor, Charles the Fifth, had ascended the throne
of Germany, and the emissaries of Rome hastened to present their
congratulations, and induce the monarch to employ his power against
the Reformation. On the other hand, the Elector of Saxony, to whom
Charles was in great degree indebted for his crown, entreated him
to take no step against Luther until he should have granted him a
hearing.
The attention of all parties was now directed to the assembly
of the German States which convened at Worms soon after the ac-
cession of Charles to the empire. There were important political
questions and interests to be considered by this national council; but
these appeared of little moment when contrasted with the cause of
the monk of Wittenberg.
Charles had previously directed the elector to bring Luther with
him to the Diet, assuring him that the Reformer should be protected
from all violence, and should be allowed a free conference with one
competent to discuss the disputed points. Luther was anxious to
appear before the emperor.
The friends of Luther were terrified and distressed. Knowing
the prejudice and enmity against him, they feared that even his
safe conduct would not be respected, and they entreated him not to
imperil his life. He replied: “The papists do not desire my coming
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to Worms, but my condemnation and my death. It matters not. Pray
not for me, but for the Word of God.”
Luther Before the Council
At length Luther stood before the council. The emperor occupied
the throne. He was surrounded by the most illustrious personages
in the empire. Never had any man appeared in the presence of a
more imposing assembly than that before which Martin Luther was
to answer for his faith.
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