Johann Gerhard (Oct 17, 1582 – Aug 17, 1637) studied theology and philosophy (and a couple years of medicine) and graduated in 1605. By 1616, when he was only 33 years old, he became the senior theological professor at Jena and was soon considered the greatest theologian of his time. He was also a prolific author.
Gerhard helped to develop Lutheran scholasticims during the Lutheran High Orthodoxy period, which lasted from 1600 to 1685. The main purpose of this was to educate people to defend the faith, especially against the Jesuits at the time.
One interesting thing that he contributed was the seven duties of a pastor in his "Commonplaces: Locus on the Ministry"
- Preaching the heavenly Word
- Administering the sacraments
- Praying for the flock entrusted to him
- Honorable managers of their life and behavior
- Take care of the administration of church discipline
- Preserve ecclesiastical rights
- Take care of the poor and visit the sick
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