He received his classical training in the gymnasia at Rossleben and Merseburg, and then attended the University of Leipzig where he studied history, philosophy and theology.

[1][2] In 1770, Kunze emigrated to Colonial America to serve as second pastor at St. Michael's and Zion Lutheran churches in Philadelphia.

Kunze was an active and passionate educator and was a strong advocate for teaching the English language to his fellow German immigrants and Lutheran pastors.

[1] In 1784, Kunze accepted a position at Trinity and Christ Church, a newly formed congregation in New York City, and also became Professor of Oriental Languages at Columbia College.

Prominent political and religious leaders Jeremiah Van Rensselaer and Frederick Muhlenberg convinced Kunze to direct the seminary and teach theology at his home in New York City.

He also helped form the Ministerium of New York, an organization of local Lutheran ministers, and served as its president until his death on July 24, 1807.