I recently came across an article by Jonathan Master titled “What Is Reformed Theology?” In it, he thoughtfully unpacks this very question, providing insight throughout the piece.
He says, “At its most basic level, the term Reformed theology refers to the theological conclusions flowing out of the Protestant Reformation. The early Reformers, such as Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, and John Calvin, had sharp and specific criticisms of late medieval Roman Catholic theology.”
Master continues to say, “Today, when the term Reformed theology is used, it often refers to something less historical. Often it refers to a theology that acknowledges the doctrine of predestination and holds to a high view of the Bible as God’s inerrant Word. Sometimes it is also identified with the so-called five points of Calvinism: total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of the saints. These are all important teachings of the Reformed tradition, but they do not fully encapsulate or describe Reformed theology. A better starting place is five statements that have been called the five solas of the Reformation.”
The 5 Solas
The Five Solas are foundational principles that emerged during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. These Latin phrases encapsulate essential theological truths about salvation and the authority of Scripture. They serve as a reminder that salvation is entirely the work of God, accomplished through His grace and for His glory.
1. Sola Scriptura (“Scripture Alone”)
Sola Scriptura asserts that the Bible is the ultimate authority for faith and practice. This principle was a response to the practices and traditions of the church that were seen as inconsistent with Scripture. By affirming Sola Scriptura, Reformers declared that God’s Word is sufficient and the final standard for truth.
- Key Scripture: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).
2. Sola Fide (“Faith Alone”)
Sola Fide emphasizes that justification—being made right with God—comes through faith alone, not by works or human effort. This sola highlights the sufficiency of faith in Christ for salvation.
- Key Scripture: “For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law” (Romans 3:28).
3. Sola Gratia (“Grace Alone”)
Sola Gratia declares that salvation is a gift from God, given by His grace alone, without any merit on the part of the believer. This doctrine rejects the idea that human works contribute to salvation.
- Key Scripture: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).
4. Solus Christus (“Christ Alone”)
Solus Christus affirms that Jesus Christ is the sole mediator between God and humanity. Salvation is accomplished exclusively through His life, death, and resurrection.
- Key Scripture: “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5).
5. Soli Deo Gloria (“To the Glory of God Alone”)
Soli Deo Gloria proclaims that all of life and salvation is for God’s glory alone. This sola rejects the glorification of humans or institutions, focusing all praise and honor only on God.
- Key Scripture: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Why the Five Solas Matter Today
The Five Solas remain relevant for modern believers, serving as a guide to authentic faith and worship. They:
- Recenter the Gospel: By focusing on God’s work through Christ, the solas ensure that the Gospel remains untainted by human additions.
- Promote Spiritual Growth: They encourage reliance on Scripture and deepen understanding of God’s grace and sovereignty.
- Inspire Worship: Recognizing salvation as entirely God’s work leads to awe and reverence for His majesty.
The Five Solas are more than historical slogans; they are timeless truths that anchor the Christian faith. By embracing Sola Scriptura, Sola Fide, Sola Gratia, Solus Christus, and Soli Deo Gloria, believers can live with confidence in God’s promises and a profound sense of purpose in glorifying Him.
May these principles continue to shape our faith, deepen our understanding, and inspire our devotion to the God who saves.
Dawn Zauner 