2025: The Year of Sola Scriptura
“Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD!
Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart.
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Introduction
The year 2025 marks the dawn of a new presidency—or perhaps the return of a former leader—and the sixth year of our local church. Yet, more significant than either is the fresh opportunity a new year presents. It offers a blank slate, a chance for renewal. Many use this time to set goals and establish new habits.
This practice is commendable when one’s sense of happiness and peace isn’t solely tied to performance. Each year, I revisit the Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards. His ambitions were not merely admirable; they were holy, honoring the Lord and contributing to God’s glory. Reading these resolutions is both inspiring and challenging. I hope to pursue a similar commitment.
For myself, my family, and our fellowship, I have a single resolution for 2025. It’s simple but profound. As we journey into this year, I want to encourage everyone to plant a stake in the soil of the soul. Let it bear a flag inscribed with the words: Scripture Alone. This foundational tenet of the Protestant Reformation, known as Sola Scriptura, declares Scripture as the highest authority for all faith and practice.
Guidance From Edwards & Scripture
Unlike the saints of the Reformation, who often lacked access to Scripture in their language, we are richly resourced. Yet, our challenge is to recognize the Bible’s central role in living the Christian life.
Jonathan Edwards' resolutions reflect this commitment:
- Resolution 28: Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly, and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.
- Resolution 52: Resolved, that I will live just so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age.
- Resolution 56: Resolved, never to give over, nor in the least to slacken, my fight with my corruptions, however unsuccessful I may be.
These resolutions are echoed in Scripture: 'The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul' (Psalm 19:7) and 'Your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart' (Jeremiah 15:16).
Pathways On The Narrow Road
To prioritize Scripture Alone, consider these practices as pathways to a deeper relationship with God:
Immersing the Soul in Scripture: Allow God’s Word to shape thoughts, actions, and affections.
Parenting Through Scripture: Equip children with faith and truth grounded in God’s Word.
Meditating and Memorizing Scripture: Keep Scripture as a constant source of strength.
Rekindling Spiritual Fervor Through Scripture: Renew hearts for God by engaging His Word.
Praying Scripture: Align prayers with God’s will as revealed in His Word.
Saying No To Yes
Choosing Scripture Alone often requires saying no to lesser priorities. This might mean forgoing TV, social media, or other pursuits—not inherently wrong—that often crowd out time for God’s Word.
Reordering life around Scripture is a call to focus on what endures. By prioritizing God’s Word, we allow it to nurture us, shape us, and draw us closer to Him.
