Today we are covering Part 2 of our FIVE SOLAS series. 

WHAT IS SOLA SCRIPTURA? 

Sola Scriptura, Scripture Alone, the idea that scripture is the only authority for salvation and life of a believer, was the basis of the Reformation. During the middle ages, extra biblical practices and teachings, based on empty philosophy and the traditions of men, had taken over the church. The purity and simplicity of the gospel was hidden from the people. Reformers cried out for a return to Sola Scriptura. 

On past Thursdays, we have covered both the authority and sufficiency of Scripture. Sola Scriptura is based on these principles. 

Scripture is the Word of God, and therefore the ultimate authority. Scripture is completely sufficient, containing everything a believer needs to live the Christian life. 

2 Tim 3:16,17 tells us “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work”.

 Nothing should be added to or subtracted from God’s Word. “Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar.” (Prov30:5,6). 

As Paul warns, “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ” (Col2:8). 

Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their elevation of tradition and demotion of God’s Word, saying, “why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?..You have nullified the word of God, for the sake of your tradition” (Matt15:3,6). 

Jude opens his letter mentioning “the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints” (v3), and in doing so, makes clear that the faith has already been delivered to us. 

No other writings or revelations are to been seen as necessary, equal to, or competing with God’s Word. The Reformers were against the unbiblical, extra biblical, and anti biblical doctrines of their day, as we ought to be today.