Martin Luther - Ellen White Defend

inconsiderately, without reflection. I might affirm either more or less than is consistent with
truth; in either case I should fall under the sentence of Christ. 'He that denieth me before men,
him will I deny before my Father which is in Heaven.' Therefore I beg of your imperial majesty
time for reflection, that I may be able to reply to the question proposed, without prejudice to
the word of God or to my own salvation."
In making this request, Luther moved wisely. His course convinced the assembly that
he did not act from passion or impulse. Such calmness and self-command, unexpected in one
who had shown himself bold and uncompromising, added to his power, and enabled him
afterward to answer with a prudence, decision, wisdom, and dignity, which surprised and
disappointed his adversaries, and rebuked their insolence and pride.
The different orders of the diet withdrew for consultation, and when again assembled,
they agreed to grant the Reformer's request, on condition, however, that his answer be
returned by word of mouth, and not in writing.
As Luther was conducted to his lodgings, a rumor was circulated through the city that
the pope had triumphed, and the Reformer would be brought to the stake. Both threats and
expressions of respect and sympathy greeted him as he made his way through the crowded
streets. Many visited him at his lodgings, and declared themselves ready to defend him with
their lives. In the midst of the excitement, the Reformer alone was calm. A letter written by him
at this time reveals his feelings:--
"I have just made my appearance before the emperor and his brother Ferdinand, and
been asked whether I would retract my writings. I answered, The books laid before me are
mine; but concerning the revocation, I will say what I will do tomorrow. This is all the time I
asked, and all they will give. But Christ being gracious to me, I will not retract an iota."
The next day he was to appear before the diet to render his second answer. At times
his heart sunk within him as he contemplated the forces that were combined against the truth.
His faith faltered as his enemies seemed to multiply before him, and the powers of darkness
to prevail. In anguish of spirit he threw himself with his face upon the earth, and poured out
those broken, heart-rending cries which none but God can fully interpret. In his helplessness,
his soul fastened upon Christ the mighty deliverer. It was not for his own safety, but for the
success of the truth, that he wrestled mightily with God; and he prevailed. He was
strengthened with the assurance that he would not appear alone before the council. Peace
returned to his soul, and he rejoiced that he was permitted to uphold and defend the word of
God before the rulers of the nation.
As the time for his appearance drew near, he approached a table on which lay the
Holy Scriptures, placed his left hand upon the sacred volume, and raising his right hand to
Heaven, he vowed to adhere constantly to the gospel, and to confess his faith freely, even
though he should be called to seal his testimony with his blood.
Signs of the Times: August 30, 1883 Luther's Second
Answer Before the Diet.
- By Mrs. E. G. White.
When Luther was again ushered into the presence of the diet, his countenance bore
no trace of fear or embarrassment. Humble and peaceful, yet grandly brave and noble, he
stood as God's witness among the great ones of earth.
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