Luther, Martin » Diet of Worms

“Since Your Majesty and Your Lordships ask for a plain answer, I will give you one without either horns or teeth.  Unless I am convicted by Scripture or by right reason (for I trust neither in Popes nor in councils, since they have often erred and contradicted themselves) – unless I am thus convinced, I am bound by the texts of the Bible, my conscience is captive to the Word of God.  I neither can nor will recant anything, since it is neither right nor safe to act against conscience.  God help me, Amen.”

Martin Luther, At the Diet of Worms, April 17,18 1521.