Martin reminds us:

The year after it was written, a copy of the [Belgic] confession was sent to Philip II, along with a statement that the petitioners were ready to obey the government in all things lawful, but would:

offer their backs to stripes,
their tongues to knives,
their mouths to gags,
and their whole bodies to the fire,
well knowing that those who follow Christ must take up His cross and deny themselves
rather than deny the truth expressed in the confession…

In 1567, de Brès became one martyr among hundreds who sealed their faith with blood. (p. 21) Read more»