p. 20 | Its Words Were Battles by J. A. Wylie

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 7, 1910

Its Words Were Battles

By J. A. Wylie

It was amazing what activity and vigor of mind Luther at this period displayed. Month after month, rather week by week, he launched treatise on treatise. These productions of his pen, “like sparks from under the hammer, each brighter than that which preceded it,” added fresh force to the conflagration that was blazing on all sides. His enemies attacked him: they but drew upon themselves heavier blows. . . .

It was now, too, that Luther published his famous appeal to the emperor, the princes, and the people of Germany, on the Reformation of Christianity. This was the most graphic, courageous, eloquent, and spirit-stirring production which had yet issued from his pen. It may be truly said of it that its words were battles. The sensation it produced was immense. It was the trumpet that summoned the German nation to the great conflict. “The time for silence,” said Luther, “is past, and the time to speak is come.” And verily he did speak.—J. A. Wylie, “History of Protestantism,” page 305.