All who opposed this decree were to be exposed to the ban of the empire, with all its pains and penalties.
This was indeed an appalling measure.

Recantation or war was the only alternative.

Charles, being still much occupied by the affairs of his vast kingdom of Spain, with all its ambitions and wars, needed a coadjutor in the government of Germany, as serious trouble was evidently near at hand.

He therefore proposed the election of his brother Ferdinand as coadjutor with him in administering the affairs of Germany.
Ferdinand, who had recently united to the Austrian territories the crowns of Hungary and Bohemia, was consequently chosen, on the 5th of January, 1531, King of the Romans.

Charles was determined to enforce his decrees, and both parties now prepared for war..