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Luther Before the Diet
87
power and grandeur that for the time inspired both friends and foes
with awe and wonder. The Spirit of God had been present in that
council, impressing the hearts of the chiefs of the empire. Several of
the princes openly acknowledged the justice of Luther’s cause. Many
were convinced of the truth; but with some the impressions received
were not lasting. There was another class who did not at the time
express their convictions, but who, having searched the Scriptures
for themselves, at a future time declared with great boldness for the
Reformation.
The elector Frederick had looked forward with anxiety to
Luther’s appearance before the Diet, and with deep emotion he
listened to his speech. He rejoiced at the doctor’s courage, firm-
ness, and self-possession, and was proud of being his protector. He
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contrasted the parties in contest, and saw that the wisdom of popes,
kings, and prelates had been brought to naught by the power of truth.
The papacy had sustained a defeat which would be felt among all
nations and in all ages.
As the legate perceived the effect produced by Luther’s speech,
he feared, as never before, for the security of the Romish power,
and resolved to employ every means at his command to effect the
Reformer’s overthrow. With all the eloquence and diplomatic skill
for which he was so eminently distinguished, he represented to the
youthful emperor the folly and danger of sacrificing, in the cause of
an insignificant monk, the friendship and support of the powerful
see of Rome.
His words were not without effect. On the day following Luther’s
answer, Charles Fifth caused a message to be presented to the Diet,
announcing his determination to carry out the policy of his predeces-
sors to maintain and protect the Catholic religion. Since Luther had
refused to renounce his errors, the most vigorous measures should be
employed against him and the heresies he taught. Nevertheless, the
safe-conduct granted him must be respected, and before proceedings
against him could be instituted, he must be allowed to reach his
home in safety.
“I am firmly resolved to tread in the footsteps of my ancestors,”
wrote the monarch. He had decided that he would not step out
of the path of the custom, even to walk in the ways of truth and
righteousness. Because his fathers did, he would uphold the papacy,