Actually Luther often submitted to church authority by appearing at various trials to answer the allegations against him. He also sought the opinion and advice of his advisor (Johann von Staupitz) and even respected the pope's judgment for a time.

Luther like many of the other reformers only cast off the authority of Rome when it was clear that they rejected Christ's authority speaking through the word.

On another note, Luther rejected groups such as the Anabaptists who themselves rejected all authority in favor of libertarian independency.

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Rev. Daniel Kok
Pastor of Grace Reformed Church (URCNA)
Leduc, Alberta CANADA

"What sort of pledge and how great is this of love towards us! Christ lives for us not for himself!"
John Calvin, Commentary on the Hebrews (7:25)