October – particularly today on Halloween –brings out all manner of spookiness. In keeping with the general theme of the season, I want to talk about a particularly spooky development in theology: The historic practice of selling indulgences, and how that has informed an equally influential branch of evangelicalism today.

Penned by Martin Luther during the throes of the Protestant Reformation, A Mighty Fortress is Our God quickly became the “battle hymn” of the Reformers’ cause.

Soli Deo Gloria is the Latin motto that really encompasses all the other Solas. The phrase translated to English means “To God Alone Glory.” Everything redounds to the glory of God, and that is especially true in salvation.

Solus Christ is the Protestant doctrine stating that salvation is obtained through the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Sola Gratia is the Protestant doctrine that Christians are saved by God’s grace alone.

The Protestant doctrine of Sola Scriptura is that the Christian Scriptures alone are the sole infallible rule of faith and practice.

As many of you may know, 2017 marks the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, one of the most significant events in the history of the church. Though the Reformation still continues on today, we should often take a look back and reflect upon the importance of this event, and give thanks to God for the recovery of several key doctrines which serve as tenets of Reformation theology.