LUTHER
If, then, I am not convinced by proof from Holy Scripture, or by cogent reasons, if I am not satisfied by the very text I have cited, and if my judgment is not in this way brought into subjection to God's word, I neither can nor will retract anything; for it can not be right for a Christian to speak against his conscience. I stand here and can say no more. God help me. Amen.[1]
- ↑ A detailed report of this memorable scene describes how, at this point, Luther, after going out of the room, was again summoned, and asked whether he actually meant to say that councils had erred, to which he answered, they had erred many times, mentioning the Council of Constance. Luther was then told if he did not retract, the emperor and the States of the Empire would proceed "to consider how to deal with an obstinate heretic," to which he answered, "May God be my helper, but I can retract nothing." Pressed once more, and reminded that he had not spoken "with that humility which befitted his condition," he said, "I have no other answer to give than that I have already given." The emperor then made a sign to end the matter, rose from his seat, and the whole assembly followed his example.
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