Our Reformation Heritage

Various, vibrant colors of leaves. The growing chill in the air. The waning daylight. These are some of the things that come to mind in October. But October also brings to mind the powerful recovery of the Gospel from the clutches of a works-based system.

You see, October was a pivotal moment in church history. On October 31st, 1517, a Roman Catholic monk, awakened by the Spirit through God’s Word, decided to post his 95 theses on the Wittenberg Castle Church door to encourage a debate. From this point on, God would use Martin Luther to pound the hammer of truth, which would, in turn, liberate many souls from the prison of darkness. He would ignite a fire that would grow into an inferno known as the Reformation.

Almost 509 years have passed since that moment. One of the benefits we have inherited since then is what we call the Five Solas: Sola Scriptura, Solus Christus, Sola Fide, Sola Gratia, and Soli Deo Gloria. Let’s look at each of them.

Sola Scriptura, or Scripture Alone, means that the 66 books of the Bible as we know it are the divine, written revelation to man. They are inspired (breathed out) by God. This makes them perfect and without error. They will never lead you astray. Because of this, they are authoritative and sufficient for faith, godliness, and the only way to know God. The Spirit uses His Word to produce new life in the repentant sinner.

Solus Christus, or Christ Alone, means that Jesus Christ is the head of the Church and the only Savior and Lord of repentant sinners. Salvation is found in Him alone. He is truly God and truly man Who was born of a virgin, lived a perfect sinless life, conquered sin, death, and Satan on the cross, and rose triumphantly from the grave three days later, vindicating Himself as the promised Savior God and justifying those who place saving faith in Him alone for salvation.

Sola Fide, or Faith Alone, means that salvation is by faith alone and not by works. Faith is a gift from the Holy Spirit by hearing the Word of God and not something we merit. We place this saving faith in Christ alone for salvation. Faith causes us to walk in a manner that pleases God, while producing good works as evidence of our salvation that glorifies God.

Sola Gratia, or Grace Alone, is the basis for our salvation. It was by God’s grace (His unmerited favor) alone whereby we are saved. It is by this grace that we can grow in our sanctification by conforming more to the image of Christ. It is the ability to say no to sin and yes to God. It is sufficient for faith and godliness.

Soli Deo Gloria, or To the Glory of God Alone, is the goal of our salvation. The only boast and credit in salvation is God Himself working in every Person of the Triune God to accomplish redemption on our behalf. The Father plans salvation, the Son accomplishes it, and the Holy Spirit then applies it. The ambition of the believer’s life is to glorify God in all things.

So, consider the rich heritage that you are a part of. The Reformers wanted the church to always be reforming to what the Bible teaches. Which of these doctrines do you find dear to your heart? How are you living out God’s glory in your life? Think about one person that you can share these truths with regarding the blessing of God’s salvation for sinners. May these bright luminaries of truth shine greatly in our hearts.

FOR FURTHER STUDY: John 3:5; Romans 3:28; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:1-10; Philippians 3:8; Colossians 1:15-23; 2 Timothy 3:16; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 11:1, 6