Five important phrases, known as the five Solas from their Latin renderings, represent the
very heart of the Reformation. After Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the Wittenberg
Chapel door on October 31, 1517 these great truths became the bedrock of theology that
supports true Christianity. As we celebrate the 500th anniversary of this event, let’s not miss
an opportunity to understand these important teachings.
Each of these phrases addresses a central truth about the Gospel (the Good News) of
Jesus Christ. Basically, each phrase is answering a different question. That’s why each one
can claim to be “alone” even though there are five of them.
In the following weeks we will examine each Sola, one at a time. We begin with Sola Gratia
which means “By Grace Alone.” The question this phrase seeks to answer is the “why”
question, “why am I saved?”
Man is notorious for wanting to do things for himself – no matter what those things are. The
Gospel teaches us that to be right with God, there is absolutely nothing humans can do.
From birth, man is in rebellion toward God and will never seek God by himself. Romans
3:11 tells us, “There is none who understands, there is none who seeks for God.”
If it were left up to the individual to gain eternal life with God, it would simply never happen.
The Good News is that God has determined to save a people for His glory. The Holy Spirit,
in drawing men and women to faith in Christ, demonstrates that salvation is totally of God’s
grace. While Ephesians 2:8 is an important passage in this regard, here are a few more
Scriptures to ponder.
John 6:44 No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I
will raise him up on the last day.
John 6:37 All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to
Me, I will certainly not cast out.
John 6:65 For this reason I have said to you, that no one can come to me unless it
has been granted from the Father.
Our salvation is indeed a gift. I hope you are encouraged!
– Pastor Andy