The Augsburg Confession: Preface

still adhere; neither do we intend nor would it be possible for us, to relinquish it by this or any other document, unless the matter between us and the other side, according to the tenor of the latest Imperial citation should be amicably and charitably settled, allayed, and brought to Christian concord; 24] and regarding this we even here solemnly and publicly testify.

[carvedonhands.gif]"Most Invincible Emperor, Caesar Augustus, Most Clement Lord" gives us a clue as to the political situation in Germany. The Reformers are not wild-eyed radicals intent on upsetting the apple cart. They seek not to overthrow the power structure, such as it was. As it is, it is a structure that clings doggedly to the Roman Empire, using honorific terms such as "emperor" and "Caesar Augustus" (the august Caesar). Centuries later the German nation's germination would also refer back to this empirical structure-perhaps you've heard of the "kaisar," the German variant of Caesar? (The Rus would also retain this title in the term "czar.")

The purpose of the diet is two-fold, as even the Reformers stated. The first goal was to unite against the infidel Turks, who were invading Europe. The term "at the gates of Vienna" comes from this Turkish threat.

The second purpose was to effect Christian unity and harmony. This document will prove to be very evangelical in its approach. Certainly having Luther at Coburg aided the Reformers in attempting to peacefully state the truth.

The Reformers point out that they were the first to answer the summons of the emperor and arrive at Augsburg!

The Reformers state that by which they stand-the Word of God. Upon the Word of God they will discuss differences even as their preaching and teaching is based on the Word of God.

The Reformers were well aware that differences may not be settled in Augsburg and also state in their preface that, should no amicable resolution come from Augsburg, they would be willing to convene in a Church Council to discuss their differences. And herein we see the true purpose of this diet. The role of doctrine was secondary. Emperor Charles wanted to defend his territories from the invading Turks (Austria was a familial territory of the Hapsburg family along with Spain, Holland, and southern Italy). Charles needed all the princes of Germany in this fight, both Catholic and Lutheran. The Lutherans recognized the threat and were willing to aid the emperor militarily. They just

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