Basic Beliefs of Christianity: Solus Christus

Today we start with our first of the Sola's (which in this case is actually a Solus). We are looking at Solus Christus which means "Christ Alone". So what do we mean by saying salvation is won by Christ Alone? This (and all of the Sola's) were written by the Reformers against the Roman Catholic Church.

What was the argument about? The Roman Catholic Church believed that Christians were not only saved by the merit (perfect life) of Jesus but also by the good works of Mary and the Saints (people the Roman Catholic Church set apart as extraordinary Christians). Christians therefore should pray to God through Mary and the Saints.

This may seem like a little thing but here is the important take home idea for today which shows why this is an important belief to get right. Any time you add to the Gospel you subtract from the Gospel.