A hymn in anticipation of the celebration of Reformation Sunday, a day when the protestant church celebrates the great doctrines clarified and recovered during the 16th century Reformation. Originally three, but later augmented to five, the great “solas” (Latin for alone or only) have stood throughout the centuries as cherished truths that we hold dear and central to our faith. The order that they are presented varies, but they are:
Sola Scriptura – By scripture alone Sola Gratia – By grace alone Sola Fide – By Faith alone Sola Christus – By Christ alone Soli Deo Gloria – For the glory of God alone
This hymn text has been set to the tune AUSTRIAN HYMN by Haydn (often associated with “Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken”) in an effort to connect it with a grand and even German musical heritage.
Lyrics
Not traditions, creeds, or man,
Tells of wrath yet loving-kindness
Joined in God's redemption plan.
Knowledge, wisdom without measure,
Comfort and delights unknown,
Perfect, all-surpassing treasure,
Found in this, God's Word alone.
Only grace can save the sinner,
Not the righteousness of man.
All our efforts only hinder
From the favor we demand.
Free and sovereign, in defiance
Of the wrath we should have known,
Not in merit, nor through penance-
We are saved by grace alone.
Only faith in God's provision
Of a perfect substitute
Can repair the grave condition
Of a sinner destitute.
Christ has come to bear our burdens,
For transgressions to atone,
And to make us clean and righteous
By the gift of faith alone.
Only Christ has paid our ransom,
He alone can mediate,
God and man in perfect union,
Holy blood to expiate.
Suffered, died, in triumph risen,
Interceding for his own,
At his word we are forgiven,
So we look to Christ alone.
Only glory to the Father-
Not to creatures he has made;
Honor, blessing, strength, and power
Fully in the Son displayed.
By the Spirit's work we see Him,
Seated on his mighty throne.
This our hope and firm foundation -
Glory be to God alone.