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The Great Controversy 1888
express their convictions, but who, having searched the Scriptures
for themselves, at a future time became fearless supporters of the
Reformation.
The elector Frederick had looked forward anxiously to Luther’s
appearance before the Diet, and with deep emotion he listened to
his speech. With joy and pride he witnessed the doctor’s courage,
firmness, and self-possession, and determined to stand more firmly
in his defense. He 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
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answer, Charles caused a message to be presented to the Diet, announc-
ing his determination to carry out the policy of his predecessors 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. “A single monk, led astray
by his own madness, erects himself against the faith of Christendom.
I will sacrifice my kingdoms, my power, my friends, my treasure,
my body and blood, my thoughts, and my life, to stay the further
progress of this impiety. I am about to dismiss the Augustine Luther,
forbidding him to cause the least disturbance among the people. I will
then take measures against him and his adherents, as open heretics,
by excommunication, interdict, and every means necessary to their
destruction. I call on the members of the States to comport them-
selves like faithful Christians.” Nevertheless the emperor declared that
Luther’s safe-conduct must be respected, and that before proceedings
against him could be instituted, he must be allowed to reach his home
in safety.