Emmanuel Canadian Reformed Church

THE FIVE SOLAS

The five solas are five Latin phrases that emerged during the Protestant Reformation and summarize the Reformers’ basic theological beliefs in contradistinction to the teaching of the Roman Catholic Church of the day. The Latin word sola means “alone” or “only” in English.

The five solas articulate five fundamental beliefs Reformation, pillars which we believe to be essentials of Christian life and practice.

Sola scriptura (“by Scripture alone”)

The Bible is the inspired word of God and is the primary way in which we can learn about our creator and Father.

Sola fide (“by faith alone”)

Faith is what is needed to be saved: as Paul and Silas testify in Acts 16, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Good works can never make us right with God – because we are inherently sinful, nothing we do is pleasing to God without His help.

Sola gratia (“by grace alone”)

God chooses His people, works faith in their hearts, and ensures that His perfect plan is carried out. It is by His grace alone that we are saved!

Solus Christus or Solo Christo (“Christ alone” or “through Christ alone”)

Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, is the only way to salvation – not through anyone else.

Soli Deo gloria (“glory to God alone”)

God alone deserves our prayers and glory!