Mission Bible Church's statement of faith is broken into three sections: a list of our 11 fundamental beliefs (meaning, foundational and never negotiable); a list of 13 emphatic beliefs (meaning, doctrines we particularly emphasize); and a short list of helpful confessions noting the exceptions we take. This week we begin to review our emphatic beliefs.
Our very first emphatic beliefs are the Five Solas of the Reformation, which declare God's Christ and Word as the believer's sole authority and hope:
- Sola Scriptura ("Scripture alone"): The Bible alone and in its entirety is the authoritative, divine Word of God
- Sola Fide ("Faith alone"): We are saved only by faith in Jesus Christ
- Sola Gratia ("Grace alone"): We are saved only by the grace of God, totally apart from our works of righteousness
- Solus Christus ("Christ alone"): Christ alone is Lord, Savior and Sovereign King of Kings
- Soli Deo Gloria ("to the Glory of God alone"): All is to be done to the glory of God alone.
Space does not permit us to quote the entire New Testament here, but the above 5 points summarize it nicely. Among the clearest passages are these: (1) All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2,3) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast; and He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. (4) For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; and Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. (5) Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
Have I left out your favorite strong passage? Mention it to me afterwards. These are good and useful matters to discuss!
