The Five Solas of the Reformation

These are five Latin phrases that were slogans during the Reformation.  They have been adopted as a basic summary of what the Reformers sought to teach in what they affirmed of the Scriptures and rejected about papal doctrine.

Sola Scripture (Scripture Alone)-The Bible is the ultimate authority for a believer.  God's instruction in what we are to believe and do is contained in the Scripture.  All other authority is subservient to Scripture.

Soli Deo Gloria (the Glory of God Alone)-Glory belongs only to God.  He does the work of creating, redeeming, and sustaining and therefore to give another credit for this is blasphemy.

Solo Christo (Christ Alone)-We are saved only by the work of Christ.  Nothing we do can earn us favor with God nor separate us from the love of Christ.

Sola Gratia (Grace Alone)-Salvation is given to us only because of grace.  We have not earned it by anything that we do.  The Bible teaches that a Christian has no reason to boast before a non-Christian, for it is only God's undeserved grace and mercy that has transformed us.

Sola Fide (Faith Alone)-This salvation comes only through the means of faith.  Faith is another word for belief.  Believing the Good News of salvation is the only means to receive it.  This too is by grace.  God must give us the desire and ability to believe.  If you want to believe, but cannot, ask God to give you belief and He will.