March 10, 2019 - Inscriptions From The Heart

SOLUS CHRISTUS: SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST ALONE

            The idea of the "sola" statements is that they are theological doctrines each describing an aspect of salvation that if even one disregarded, one is lead to a false gospel that is powerless to save. Thus, each sola statement, which all is rooted in scripture, has great importance and commands our attention to study them. Solus Christus, meaning "Christ Alone" is the notion that salvation is only available, possible, and achievable through the finished and complete work of Jesus Christ. 

            "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one goes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6)

            Apart from Jesus' major role in our salvation, he is also described in scripture as the King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16), our Redeemer (Galatians 3:13), our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14), and sole Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). Some of these statements we all agree on immediately, but I want to personally invite you to reconsider what impacts it has in our everyday life. Jesus Christ is in charge of our lives, not you or me. He saves us, not our going to church, not our tithing, not our quiet time (although all those things are good – they don't save). He is our High Priest meaning pastors and church leaders can't save and lead you like Jesus can. And finally, being our sole Mediator means we need no one else but Jesus to communicate with God the father. No need for Mary, or a confession box, or a pastor – just Jesus.

            See, there's a reason why the typical Sunday School answer is always "Jesus" – it’s because in our, doctrine and theology, even in our very lives as we live it, Jesus must be placed at extreme importance if we are to live out the gospel as He calls us to do. Solus Christus (just like the other solas) isn't mere doctrine, but a worldview we see the world through that affects every facet of our lives. In the words of apostle Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ who lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20)

            To God be the glory!

-Immanuel Garcera