Grace, Faith, Scripture: Portrait of a Lutheran

Grace, faith, and Scripture.

Sola gratia, sola fide, and sola Scriptura.

These three solas, or “alones,” have long been used to characterize the unique theology of the Lutheran faith. The solas set up a relationship between God and us, and between us and our neighbor.

Lutherans are people of the Bible, basing their faith on God’s Word alone. In that Word, they find grace alone is the central message of God in His relationship with believers. To receive that gift, you need faith alone. These three solas are Lutheran hallmarks, but they are also God’s gifts to all Christians.

Through real life or fictional examples, an understanding of Law and Gospel, discussion questions, and recommended resources for further readings, deepen your understanding of Lutheran doctrine and the three solas. The solas don’t encompass every single aspect of Lutheranism, but through them, you can begin to see what it means to be a true Lutheran.

About the Author
Dr. Daniel Paavola has been teaching the essence of the Lutheran faith for twenty-two years as a professor of theology at Concordia University Wisconsin, where he currently serves as the theology department chairman. He holds a master of theology from Princeton Theological Seminary and a PhD in exegetical theology from Concordia Seminary.