Little Hans of Stotzingen, in the Year 1528

Little Hans of Stotzingen, having been in prison for a time, for the evangelical truth, at Zabern, Alsace, was finally condemned to death, about the year 1528. On his way to the place of execution, he spoke the following admonition to the people, and was then beheaded with the sword.

"In our extremity we now begin to cry to our God, to deliver us from all our distress, so that our hearts may offer up to Him a pure sacrifice acceptable in His sight. Romans 12, verse 1. The sacrifice which I mean is my whole body, life, skin and bones, and also wife and children. We are willing to offer up all our members, love urging and constraining us. Pharaoh would gladly prevent this and change it; but we do not care about that, and have not the least desire to give it up, but to bring the offering before the Lord, and to press our way through with His help (Matthew 11, verse 12); He will aid and help us. [n588-1] Come here, beloved brothers and sisters, let us take hold of the matter valiantly: We are now members of Jesus Christ (Romans 12, verses 4 and 5); He is our Captain (Ephesians 1, verse 22); He has prepared a glorious crown, with which He will crown those who persevere to the end. Matthew 10, verse 22. Be of good courage and undaunted, you worm Jacob. Isaiah 41, verse 14. The Red Sea shall stand open; if Pharaoh pursues you, he will perish in it. You little flock, do not be afraid, for it is only a little while here, and our flesh is of no consequence. But in the city which God has prepared for us in the everlasting kingdom, we shall be as the angels of God. Hebrews 11, verse 10; Matthew 22, verse 30. Who can measure their worth? This God has promised us; indeed, through His Child, Jesus Christ, He promises us much comfort and joy, and everlasting rest, if we remain steadfast in Him. But we must also drink the cup of suffering, and suffer with His Son Christ Jesus (Matthew 20, verse 23), and He will deliver us and help us well. Though the heathen kill us, He will not forsake us, but will break their power in pieces, snatch us out of their hand, and through grace gloriously crown us. God is the Lord who can protect. He is also our shield (Genesis 15, verse 1), since we have Him for a Father, who is so good and gracious; so that though men drive us away from them, we will always hold fast to Him. His great power is over us, and He does not let those faint who keep His covenant; therefore, though we are defamed and accused, rejoice over it in your hearts. Have confidence in God, and He will help you. Therefore fear neither pain nor death. I give praise and thanks to my God, that I have become a sacrifice. I have longed for it a long time, for to die is gain for me. Philippians 1, verse 21. O God, let me share in the sacrifice of Your Son Jesus Christ. Amen." Hebrews 9, verse 14.

So he offered his neck, and was beheaded for the testimony of Jesus Christ. Acts 1, verse 8.