The Catholic apologist is less successful against…

The Catholic apologist is less successful against his principal ideological opponent, Luther, who, as Eck himself confesses, is his superior in memory, acumen, and learning.

After a disputation on the supremacy of the papacy, purgatory, penance, etc., lasting twenty-three days (July 4–July 24), the arbitrators decline to give a verdict.

Eck does succeed in making Luther admit that there is some truth in the Hussite opinions and declare himself against the pope, but this success only embitters his animosity against his opponents, and from this time his whole efforts will be devoted to Luther's overthrow.

Eck also forces Luther to declare that Ecumenical Councils are sometimes errant, as in the case when Constance (1414–1418) condemned Hus (1415).

Luther now effectively denies the authority of both pope and council.

Eck is greeted as victor by the theologians of the University of Leipzig, who overwhelm him with honors and send him away with gifts.

Meanwhile, church officials act against Luther.