Diet of Worms

 



7. http://www.sacred-destinations.com/germany/germany-map
Map of Germany showing Wittenberg, Worms and Augsburg

In April 1521, Luther began his journey to Worms where the Church believed Luther would recant all of the things he was preaching against the Church. With the promise of safety, his journey became a type of "victory march". People gave him praise, welcomed him graciously and looked at him like a hero. When he arrived in Worms he had to appear before the Emperor twice, both times being told to take back his teachings and writings. Even under threat from the Church, Luther saw no wrong in his teachings and refused to recant. (English Bible History)

"I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other- my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise." - Martin Luther
(Bainton, 185)

Martin Luther at the Diet of Worms

(Hollywood rendition; but accurate speech translation)

After this trial his books and teachings had become banned and he was then excommunicated from the Church. On his travels home, Frederick the Wise decided that for his own safety he was to be taken to stay in Wartburg Castle. He would then achieve to translate the New Testament into German during his seclusion.

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