Martin Chemnitz

Date of Birth: November 9, 1522

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: April 8, 1586

Biography

Martin Chemnitz was a prominent Lutheran theologian born on November 9, 1522, in Treuenbrietzen, Germany. Often hailed as the “Second Martin” in Lutheran circles, Chemnitz played a crucial role in the development and consolidation of Lutheran theology after the death of Martin Luther. After initially studying at Wittenberg and holding various posts, Chemnitz became heavily involved in theological debates of his time. His most famous work, the “Examination of the Council of Trent,” is a thorough critique of the Roman Catholic doctrine as defined by the Council of Trent. Chemnitz also contributed significantly to the Formula of Concord, a confessional document that resolved doctrinal disputes within Lutheranism. He served as the Superintendent of Braunschweig and was a key figure in maintaining the Lutheran orthodoxy in Germany during the Reformation and post-Reformation era.

5 Interesting Facts about Martin Chemnitz

1. Martin Chemnitz was instrumental in the creation of the “Book of Concord,” a foundational text for Lutheran doctrine.

2. He studied under Philipp Melanchthon, another significant figure in the Reformation.

3. Chemnitz’s “Examination of the Council of Trent” is considered one of the most comprehensive Protestant critiques of Roman Catholic theology.

4. He was appointed as Superintendent of Braunschweig in 1567.

5. Chemnitz’s works were so influential that he was posthumously referred to as the “Second Martin” due to his role in preserving Martin Luther’s theological legacy.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Martin Chemnitz

1. “Nothing can be said so clearly as to preclude the possibility of it being misunderstood.”

2. “If the doctrine of justification is lost, the whole of Christian doctrine is lost.”

3. “The proper distinction between Law and Gospel is the most difficult and highest art of Christians in general and of theologians in particular.”

4. “The Holy Scriptures are our pure and clear fountain of Israel, which alone is the one true guiding-star.”

5. “Human traditions, customs, and ordinances are not to be set in the balance with the Word of God.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Not applicable. Martin Chemnitz’s historical context and profession did not lend itself to the accumulation of personal wealth in the manner commonly discussed today.

Children

Martin Chemnitz married Anna Jäger in 1555, and they had six children together. Little is widely documented about their individual lives, but they were integral to his personal and familial life.