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Marin Luther: The sale of indulgences was just one of many issues that I had with the church, and with whom I disagreed. Of course, church leaders tried to get me to recant my positions and teachings. I stood in front of several hearings to make my case and present my argument. The one that stands out in my memory happened at a city called Worms in Germany. It was a trial of sorts in which church and government leaders were present, most of whom wanted me to repudiate my teachings. I was asked this question: “Do you or do you not repudiate your books and the errors which they contain?” To this question I said this: “Since your Majesty and your lordships desire a simply reply, I will answer without horns and without teeth. Unless I am convicted by Scripture and plain reason, my conscience is capture to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand. I cannot do otherwise. God help me. Amen.”

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