Philip Melancthon (1497 - 1560)

A character sketch of Philip Melancthon

Born in Bretten, Germany.

Entered the University of Heidelberg to study Greek before was thirteen.

Studied at Tubingen in 1512.

Became the professor of Greed at Wittenberg. Here be became Luther’s right-hand man.

Was present at the Leipzig disputation between Luther and Eck in 1519, at the Diet of Spier in 1529, and at the colloquy of Marbrg in 1529.

Had a tendency to try to compromise and make peace with opposing parties whether Calvinistic of Catholic, sometimes to the jeopardy of the Lutheran cause.

As a Reformer Melancthon was characterized by moderation, conscientiousness, caution, and love of peace.

He developed the German system of schools.Was known as a German humanist and Reformer.

Personal Application.

Melancthon was a man who knew the truth. He was educated, associated with influential Reformers and yet, at times he was soft in his beliefs. This is a valuable lesson for all us Bible students. We have the truth. Let us stand by and for the truth.

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