This week in Christian history: ‘Second Martin’ born, first black missionary to Africa dies

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, November 05, 2023

Martin Chemnitz born – Nov. 9, 1522

Martin Chemnitz (1522-1586) was a Protestant Reformation theologian, author and lecturer whose influence on the movement led many to dub him 'the second Martin,' in reference to Martin Luther. — Martin Chemnitz (1522-1586) was a Protestant Reformation theologian, author and lecturer whose influence on the movement led many to dub him "the second Martin," in reference to Martin Luther. | Public Domain

This week marks the anniversary of when Martin Chemnitz, a notable theologian, lecturer and author of the Protestant Reformation, was born in Treuenbrietzen, Germany, about 20 miles from Wittenberg.

The youngest of three who was born after the start of the Reformation in 1517, Chemnitz studied theology in depth as an adult, receiving guidance and feedback from Philipp Melanchthon, a contemporary of Martin Luther.

Eventually, Chemnitz wrote several major theological works, including the three-volume Loci Theologici, and also became a university lecturer and preacher.

Such was Chemnitz's influence on Lutheranism that he would eventually gain the nickname "the Second Martin" in reference to his ideological predecessor, Luther.

"Coming from a working-class background and with very little formal education in theology, Chemnitz trod a circuitous and unusual path to become one of the most significant Lutheran fathers," explained the Concordia Historical Institute.

"Chemnitz was highly-motivated, self-taught, and industrious. Not only that, but he was also a devoted family man, whose children and grandchildren reflected their ancestor's accomplishments."