Happy Reformation Day!
On this day, over half a millennia ago, Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. His action on October 31, 1517 was the match that lit a fire that would spread and become known as the Protestant Reformation. At the heart of the Reformation stood the five Solas. These doctrinal distinctives characterized the gulf that existed between Reformers like Martin Luther, Philip Melanchthon, John Calvin, and Ulrich Zwingli and the the teachings of the 16th century Roman Catholic Church. In the spirit of Reformation Day, I thought it would be good to remind us what the five Solas are.
Sola Scriptura means “Scripture alone” and expresses the conviction that God’s inspired Word is the only unerring, all-sufficient, and final authority for the faith and practice of the church.
Solus Christus means “Christ alone” and holds forth the beautiful truth that Christ and Christ alone is the basis upon which sinners are justified in God’s sight.
Sola fide means “faith alone” and maintains that those who believe in Christ receive His redemption only through faith.
Sola gratia means “grace alone” and proclaims that all of salvation, from beginning to end, is only by the grace of God.
Soli Deo gloria means “glory to God alone” rightfully asserting that God alone deserves all glory, honor, and praise for our salvation.
I can think of no one better to help us celebrate this Reformation Day than our own Pastor Emeritus, Dr. Erwin Lutzer. I look forward to his time with us this morning as he speaks on “God, the Cross, and You!” I know we’ll be blessed.
Remember, you are loved, more than you know!
