The phrase "Soli Deo Gloria" is a Latin phrase that means "Glory to God Alone".
The phrase arouse out of the Protestant Reformation, which formally began on October 31, 1517, now called Reformation Day by some. During the 1000 years preceding the Protestant Reformation the gospel had been suppressed by the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Martin Luther posted his Ninety-five Thesis on the door of the church in Wittenberg, Germany in on October 31, 1517 in hopes of beginning a discussion. The result of Luther’s Ninety-five Thesis was a movement; the result was the recovery of the gospel.
Over time and in the midst of tremendous pressure, the Protestant movement (or movements) summarized its teachings into the “five solas” or “five alones”. They are…
- Sola Scriptura - The Scripture Alone is the Standard
- Soli Deo Gloria -For the Glory of God Alone
- Solo Christo - By Christ's Work Alone are We Saved
- Sola Gratia - Salvation by Grace Alone
- Sola Fide - Justification by Faith Alone
These “five solas” represent the heart of biblical theology and of the Christian faith. The only standard for the Christian life are the Christian scriptures. Life and all of creation exists for the glory of God alone. Salvation is based only in the work of Christ upon the cross. It is by the grace of God alone that we are saved. Finally, we relate to God and are made right in the sight of God only on the basis of the gift of faith.
So why do I end my letters and correspondences in “Soli Deo Gloria”? Soli Deo Gloria is a reminder to me, first, and hopefully others that we exist only, solely for the glory of God. I am not here on this earth for my glory, for the glory of my family, for the glory of my church, or even for the glory of my nation. I am placed on this earth only to honor and glorify God. I often, however, confuse things and live for the glory of things other than God. Also, the phrase “Soli Deo Gloria” is sometimes used by God to remind me of the other four solas. All of this turns my heart toward God in worship and appreciation.
Please pardon my Latin reminders, but I need them!
Soli Deo Gloria,
Bryan
