Philip Melancthon (1497-1560)

Major works

•          Loci Communes (first systematic statement of Luther’s ideas)

•          “Visitation Articles”

Importance

•          German Reformer, theologian and educator

•          Close ties with Luther (went with Luther to Leipzig disputation in 1519)

•          Wrote Augsburg Confession (1531)

•          His main contribution to Lutheran movement (although still controversial with Lutherans) was that he changed views on the Lord’s Supper. He adopted a real, spiritual presence view that was closer to Calvin’s view

•          A fine grammarian and biblical humanist

•          Was part of Erasmus’s circle

•          Was professor of Univ. of Wittenburg (1518)

•          Officiated Luther’s funeral

•          Sat in on Trent II

•          Some say he weakened Luther’s views