ng and the dead, clergy and
laity, councils and private Christians. "In Luther's errors there is
enough," he declared, to warrant the burning of "a hundred thousand
heretics."

In conclusion, he endeavored to cast contempt upon the adherents of the
reformed faith: "What are all these Lutherans? A crew of insolent
pedagogues, corrupt priests, dissolute monks, ignorant lawyers, and
degraded nobles, with the common people whom they have misled and
perverted. How far superior to them is the Catholic party in number,
ability, and power! A unanimous decree from this illustrious assembly will
enlighten the simple, warn the imprudent, decide the waverers, and give
strength to the weak."(202)

With such weapons the advocates of truth in every age have been attacked.
The same arguments are still urged against all who dare to present, in
opposition to established errors, the plain and direct teachings of God's
word. "Who are these preachers of new doctrines?" exclaim those who desire
a popular religion. "They are unlearned, few in numbers, and of the poorer
class. Yet they claim to have the truth, and to be the chosen people of
God. They are ignorant and deceived. How greatly superior in numbers and
influence is our church! How many great and learned men are among us! How
much more power is on our side!" These are the arguments that have a
telling influence upon the world; but they are no more conclusive now than
in the days of the Reformer.

The Reformation did not, as many suppose, end with Luther. It is to be
continued to the close of this world's history. Luther had a great work to
do in reflecting to others the light which God had permitted to shine upon
him; yet he did not receive all the light which was to be given to the
world. From that time to this, new light has been continually shining upon
the Scriptures, and new truths have been constantly unfolding.

The legate's address made a deep impression upon the Diet. There was no
Luther present, with the clear and convincing truths of God's word, to
vanquish the papal champion. No attempt was made to defend the Reformer.
There was manifest a general disposition not only to condemn him and the
doctrines which he taught, but if possible to uproot the heresy. Rome had
enjoyed the most favorable opportunity to defend her cause. All that she
could say in her own vindication had been said. But the apparent victory
was the signal of defeat. Henceforth the contrast between truth