What are the Five Solas of the Reformation?
The Five Solas of the Reformation are five summaries that distinguished the faith of the Reformers from the faith of Rome. The Solas can be (and have been) held by those not confessionally Reformed, but Calvinistic and Sovereign Grace in soteriology. They are the following:
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Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone)
The 66 books of the Bible are the church’s sole authority for Christian doctrine, faith, and practice. The Scriptures are the inspired Word of God and are therefore inerrant, infallible, and perfectly profitable and sufficient for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness.
Solus Christus (Christ Alone)
Salvation is found in none other than Christ alone. No one can come to the Father except through Him.
Sola Fide (Faith Alone)
It is not by works that we are saved, but by grace through faith. Even our faith is a gift, as it is the instrument by which we are justified (declared righteous) and by which we please God.
Sola Gratia (Grace Alone)
Salvation from beginning to end is all of grace (God’s pure and unmerited favor towards His people). Grace is a gift, lest anyone should boast, and because it is God’s grace shown to sinners who do not deserve it, it can never be taken away — for this same grace perseveres and preserves. God is faithful, and that which He began in the church He will bring to perfect completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)
Because salvation is the work of God alone, Christians, whether in vocation or Sunday morning worship, are commanded to live every part of their lives in worship to the glory of God alone.