The Protestant Reformation: A Return to Biblical Foundations

From its earliest days', corruption, contamination, and perversion began to subtly creep into the church through compromise and unbiblical teaching. As Christianity spread throughout the known world, it became known as the Catholic Church, which simply means universal. Later, a close affinity developed between the Roman Government and the Catholic Church, leading to further erosion of the clear doctrines of the Bible. The teaching of the Roman Catholic Church became increasingly focused on the human leader (the Pope) and its traditions, rather than the Word of God.

Martin Luther was the key figure in challenging what were considered erroneous extra-biblical traditions and works-based practices of Roman Catholicism. In 1517, he listed 95 concerns,

Does my faith need some reformation?

which he posted on the cathedral door, calling the Church back to the good news of salvation by grace alone through faith alone (Eph 2:8,9). With others, he began a restructuring or reforming of some churches, leading to their separation from the Roman Catholic Church and his recognition as the founder of Protestantism. Reformation Day is commemorated on October 31.

The Five Solas: Pillars of Protestant Doctrine

The reformers identified critical errors in the Roman Catholic Church in four key areas — how a person is saved, where religious authority lies, the nature of the church, and the essence of Christian living. In response, the Protestant reformers established five essential doctrines, all grounded in Scripture, known as the "Five Solas."

Scripture alone (Sola Scriptura) is the sole authority for all matters of faith and practice and the standard by which all teachings and doctrines must be measured.
Salvation (that releases us from sin and raises us up from spiritual death to spiritual life) is by God’s grace alone (Sola Gratia).
Justification is through faith in Christ — faith alone (Sola Fide). His righteousness is imputed to us as the only possible satisfaction of God’s perfect justice.
Salvation is only found in Christ — by Christ alone (Solus Christus). His sinless life and substitutionary atonement are sufficient for our justification and reconciliation to God the Father.
Salvation is of God and has been accomplished for His glory alone (Soli Deo Gloria). As Christians, we must glorify Him at all times and live our lives honorably under His authority for His glory alone.

Enduring Relevance of the Reformation

Today, these Five Solas still provide a vital yardstick by which to evaluate our own beliefs and those of Protestant Christianity, and where necessary, return to these biblical roots.