Medieval Reformers
243
Jerome
Clarity and Power—The words of Jerome excited astonishment
and admiration, even in his enemies. For a whole year he had been
immured in a dungeon, unable to read or even to see, in great physical
suffering and mental anxiety. Yet his arguments were presented with
as much clearness and power as if he had had undisturbed opportunity
for study.—
The Great Controversy, 112, 113
.
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Luther
Deep Fervor—Luther was ordained a priest, and was called from
the cloister to a professorship in the University of Wittenberg. Here he
applied himself to the study of the Scriptures in the original tongues.
He began to lecture upon the Bible; and the book of Psalm, the Gospels,
and the Epistles were opened to the understanding of crowds of de-
lighted listeners. He was mighty in the Scriptures and the grace of
God rested upon him. His eloquence captivated his hearers, the clear-
ness and power with which he presented the truth convinced their
understanding, and his deep fervor touched their hearts.—
The Story
of Redemption, 341
.
Fearless Bearing—The simple energy of his words, his fearless
bearing, his calm, speaking eye, and the unalterable determination
expressed in every word and act made a deep impression upon the
assembly. It was evident that he could not be induced, either by
promises or threats, to yield to the mandate of Rome.
Christ had spoken through Luther’s testimony with a power and
grandeur that for the time inspired both friends and foes with awe and
wonder.—
The Story of Redemption, 348
.
God’s Chosen Instrument—Luther was God’s chosen instrument
to tear off the garb of hypocrisy from the papal church and expose her
corruption. He raised his voice zealously, and in the power of the Holy
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Spirit cried out against and rebuked the existing sins of the leaders of
the people.—
Testimonies for the Church 1:372
.
Calm, Dignified Power—The calm, dignified power of Luther
humbled his enemies, and dealt a most dreadful blow to the papacy.—
Testimonies for the Church 1:373
.