Chapter 8:
Luther Before the Diet
“And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them…” Matthew 10:18
Introduction
The scene opens with Martin Luther in the throes of persecution. Because he does not take back his conviction of the validity of God's word, he is brought before the high and mighty men of the church. With the eyes of the church on him, Martin Luther prepares for not only the fight of his life but for the defense of God’s word.
What are the elements of this chapter?
Event: DIET OF WORMS (1521)
Luther is summoned to appear before the emperor and church officials to answer the charge of heresy.
People: EMPEROR CHARLES V (1500-1558)
Holy Roman Emperor
A devout Catholic who seeks Luther’s overthrow.
He nonetheless grants Luther safe passage to the Diet and back home.
Luther at the Diet
Luther is brought in front of the council but asks for more time to prepare a response. (Matthew 10:18-20; 10:33)
Luther, taken over by fear, his faith falters and he prays for strength. (GC 156.3)
“Here I stand… so help me God.”
Luther is pressured to retract but requests the council to show him his error from Scripture. The council is left speechless. (GC 160.1-160.2)
An Enemy of the State!
The papal legate puts pressure on the emperor for the death penalty. Luther’s followers are threaten as well using many tactics which include academic bullying, ridicule, lies and slander.
(2 Timothy 3:12)
People: GEORGE THE BEARDED (1471-1539)
Duke of Saxony
He voices what many in attendance felt against the abuses of the church
"their only object is…money, money, money!"
(GC 149.2-149.3)
EDICT OF WORMS 1521
The papal legate threatens the emperor to stay in line with the church. Eventually an edict condemning Luther and his followers was written.
GC 167.3
Event: LUTHER IS KIDNAPPED
As Luther departs from Worms, He is taken by agents of Frederick III and secretly brought to Wartburg castle for safekeeping.
From Wartburg castle, Luther writes tracts that are circulated throughout the empire and translates Bible to German.
What does this have to do with me today?
How would I prepare to testify before Congress if my faith was being challenged?
Have I observed abuses of authority in the name of church policy in my church?
What would it take for me to stand up against policies contrary to the Word of God?