The Reformation Still Matters: Scripture, Grace, and Christ

By Dave Jenkins | Equipping You in GraceThe Reformation still matters because the church still needs God’s Word, sinners still need the gospel, and Christ alone saves. In this episode of Equipping You in Grace, Dave Jenkins concludes Theology in a Confused World by exploring biblical authority, justification by faith alone, and the five solas.

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The Church Must Remain Under God’s Word

The church receives God’s truth and must faithfully proclaim, guard, and pass it on. Biblical reformation means continually bringing our beliefs and practices into conformity with Scripture. Church history, pastors, creeds, and confessions can serve the church well, but they remain under the authority of God’s Word.Dave explains how experience, cultural pressure, political ideology, ministry success, and even cherished Protestant traditions can begin competing with Scripture. Every Christian needs the humility to receive correction from God’s Word.

The Five Solas and the Hope of the Gospel

• Scripture alone: God’s Word is the final infallible authority for Christian faith and practice.
• Grace alone: Salvation is God’s gracious gift, leaving no room for human boasting.
• Faith alone: We receive Christ and His righteousness through faith, apart from works.
• Christ alone: Jesus is the sufficient Savior and the only mediator between God and man.
• To God alone be the glory: Salvation and faithful Christian service direct our praise to God.

Good works are the fruit of salvation, never the foundation of justification. Our peace with God rests on Christ’s finished work. That assurance strengthens our desire to obey Him.

Living These Truths Today

These truths call us to read and study Scripture, examine our assumptions, repent of sin, and keep the gospel central. God’s Word must shape our thinking, relationships, emotions, ministry, and daily decisions.Dave also emphasizes the importance of the local church. Faithful preaching, corporate worship, prayer, the ordinances, discipleship, and fellowship help Christians grow in Christ. Podcasts and online resources should strengthen our participation in the local church.

Key Scriptures

2 Timothy 3:16–17; Romans 3:23–26; Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:8–10; 1 Timothy 2:5; Jude 3.

More from Equipping You in Grace

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