Simple refutations of the Five Solas

Catholic Answer Forum

1. Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone): The belief that Scripture is the only inspired and authoritive
Word of God, the only source of Christian doctrine, and that it is self-interpreting and
accessible to personal interpretation.
Objection: Sola Scriptura is incorrect because the Apostles had no Bible with which to preach;
all they had was the life and teachings of Jesus Christ (Acts 4:1-2, 7-12). If Sola Scriptura is
correct, than the Apostles are frauds.

2. Solda Fide (Faith Alone): The belief that man is justified by faith alone and saving faith is
evidenced by good works.
Objection: Sola Fide is incorrect because Jesus taught that not everyone who believes He is
God will make it to Heaven but only those who do His Father’s Will (Luke 7:21-23, 8:19-21). If
Sola Fide is correct, than Jesus is a false teacher.

3. Solda Gratia (Grace Alone): The belief that eternal life is a grace and that man cannot
“merit” greater graces by cooperating with graces.
Objection: Sola Gratia is incorrect because Mary “merited” her role as Mother of God by
cooperating with God: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me
according to your word” (Luke 1:38, Acts 4:33). If Sola Gratia is correct, than Mary is not the
Mother of God.

4. Solo Christo (Christ Alone): The belief that Christ is the sole Mediator, that no one else can
act as a mediator, and that salvation comes through Christ.
Objection: Solo Christo is incorrect because people can pray for others, and prayer is a form of
meditation (1 Timothy 2:1-2, Hebrews 7:25). If Solo Christo is correct, than no one can pray
for others.

5. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone): The belief that God alone is glorified and no saint can
be venerated.
Objection: Soli Deo Gloria is incorrect because the Apostle John spoke of martyrs being
venerated by being buried under Altars (Revelation 6:9-11, 1 Jn 5:21). If Soli Deo Gloria is
correct, than John is an idolter.