Clean Conscience

Martin Luther who brought the protestant reformation out of the Catholic church questioned the doctrine and practices of the Catholic church in a thesis called ‘The Ninety-Five Theses’ in October of 1517. The Roman Catholic church wanted Martin Luther to recant his view. The Diet of Worms of 1521 was an imperial assembly meeting of the Holy Roman Empire. It was convened to determine how authorities (both political and religious) should respond to Martin Luther’s teachings. The diet was held in Worms, Germany. Martin Luther had to appear before the Emperor twice; each time he was told to take back his teachings. Luther didn’t see any proof against his thesis or views which would move him to recant. Martin Luther said, “Unless I am convinced by Scripture and plain reason I do not accept the authority of the 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. God help me. Amen.” Martin Luther’s conscience was captive to the Word of God. After negotiations with Martin Luther and failed attempts to recant his view, the pope excommunicated Martin Luther in 1521.