The Press in the Reformation

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 27, 1910

The Press in the Reformation

PRINTING, that mighty engine which the fifteenth century had invented, seconded all these efforts [by the Reformers], and by means of its powerful projectiles was continually making breaches in the walls of the enemy. What Luther and his friends composed, others disseminated. . . . In towns, burgs, and even villages, Luther’s writings were read in the evening at the fireside, or in the house of the schoolmaster. Some of the inhabitants were struck by this reading. They applied to the Bible to clear up their doubts, and were astonished when they saw the strange contrast between their Christianity and the Christianity of the Bible. Hesitating for a time between tradition and the Holy Scriptures, they took refuge in that living Word, which shed a sudden and delightful light on their souls. After reading these writings, the people, or their leaders, frequently wrote for some man of known faith to come and enlighten them.— Selected.