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Champion of Truth
95
the simplicity of his address, had declared: “This monk will never
make a heretic of me.” The courage and firmness which he now
displayed, the power of his reasoning, filled all parties with surprise.
The emperor, moved to admiration, exclaimed: “This monk speaks
with an intrepid heart and unshaken courage.”
The partisans of Rome had been worsted. They sought to main-
tain their power, not by appealing to Scripture, but by threats, Rome’s
[102]
unfailing argument. Said the spokesman of the diet: “If you do not
retract, the emperor and the states of the empire will consult what
course to adopt against an incorrigible heretic.”
Luther said calmly: “May God be my helper, for I can retract
nothing.
He was directed to withdraw while the princes consulted together.
Luther’s persistent refusal to submit might affect the history of the
church for ages. It was decided to give him one more opportunity
to retract. Again the question was put. Would he renounce his
doctrines? “I have no other reply to make,” he said, “than that which
I have already made.”
The papal leaders were chagrined that their power should be
despised by a humble monk. Luther had spoken to all with Christian
dignity and calmness, his words free from passion and misrepresen-
tation. He had lost sight of himself and felt only that he was in the
presence of One infinitely superior to popes, kings, and emperors.
The Spirit of God had been present, impressing the hearts of the
chiefs of the empire.
Several princes boldly acknowledged the justice of Luther’s
cause. Another class did not at the time express their convictions,
but at a future time became fearless supporters of the Reformation.
The elector Frederick had with deep emotion listened to Luther’s
speech. With joy and pride he witnessed the doctor’s courage and
self-possession, and determined to stand more firmly in his defense.
He saw that the wisdom of popes, kings, and prelates had been
brought to nought by the power of truth.
As the legate perceived the effect produced by Luther’s speech,
he resolved to employ every means at his command to effect the
Reformer’s overthrow. With eloquence and diplomatic skill he rep-
21
Ibid., bk. 7, ch. 8.