The 5 Solas of the Protestant Reformation

This article was first published in French at SOLA.

Why did The Gospel Coalition Quebec choose the name SOLA? In a word, to indicate its adherence to the five SOLAs of the Protestant Reformation:

Sola Gratia

This is Latin for "Grace Alone." This declaration means that God saves us from the judgment we deserve by grace. It is an unmerited gift.

 

Ephesians 2:8-9 - For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Sola fide

This is Latin for "Faith Alone." This declaration means that we are saved by faith in Jesus Christ alone. He paid the penalty for our sins in full and salvation is a result of God imputing his righteousness to those who put their faith in him. 

 

Romans 4:4-5 - Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. And to the one who does not work but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.

 

Solus Christus

This is Latin for "Christ Alone." This declaration means that Jesus Christ and no other human agent can save us from God's wrath.

 

John 14:6 - Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

 

Sola Scriptura

This is Latin for "Scripture Alone." This declaration means that the Bible is the sole authority for Christians in faith, doctrine, and practice because it is sufficient and without error.

 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Soli Deo Gloria

This is Latin for "To the Glory of God Alone." This declaration means that God's work of salvation is for his glory and we are to live for his glory.

 

Ephesians 1:5-6 - In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.