Of Heretics and Outlaws – The Edict of Worms
Up until 1521, it had been relatively safe to show an interest in the writings and teachings of Martin Luther (1483-1546). When Luther refused to recant his writings in opposition to various doctrines and practices of the Roman Catholic Church, the Edict of Worms was signed by Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor, on May 25, 1521, officially declaring Luther a heretic and an outlaw.
The decree “forbid anyone from this time forward to dare, either by words or by
deeds, to receive, defend, sustain, or favor the said Martin Luther.” The Edict
declared Luther to be an obstinate heretic and banned the reading or possession
of his writings. It further called for his capture.
Luther escaped to safety at the Wartburg Castle under the protection
of Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony, where he proceeded to translate the New Testament into German. Luther had become a prolific writer, fully embracing the
new technology of the printing press to widely disseminate his teachings. Attempts to carry out the Edict were largely unsuccessful and the movement for Reform swept across much of Northern Europe, forever changing the face of Christianity. We owe a debt of gratitude to all who have fought for their convictions and beliefs at any cost as we continue the work of building the Kingdom of God.
