Protestant position: Scripture alone (Sola Scriptura) is the final authority for faith and practice. Church tradition, councils, and leaders are valuable but are subordinate and must submit to God’s Word.

Roman Catholic position: Scripture is authoritative but inseparable from Church Tradition and the teaching authority of the Magisterium (pope and bishops). Doctrines must be accepted if taught by the Church, whether they are in the Bible or not.

Protestant position: Justification is by faith alone (Sola Fide) in Christ’s atoning work and is an immediate declaration by God. Good works are a response to salvation, not a condition for it.

Roman Catholic position: Justification is a process involving both God’s grace and human cooperation through works and sacraments. Faith must be “formed by charity” and accompanied by obedience to the Church.

Protestant position: Christ alone (Solus Christus) is the only mediator between God and humanity. Believers have direct access to God through Him.

Roman Catholic position: The Church teaches that priests, Mary, and the saints intercede on behalf of believers. The Mass is a re-presentation of Christ’s sacrifice, necessary for salvation

Protestant position: Believers have full assurance of salvation upon coming to faith, resting in Christ’s finished work and God’s promise.

Roman Catholic position: Salvation cannot be fully assured because it depends on ongoing cooperation with grace and participation in sacraments. Certainty is “moral hope,” not guaranteed.

Protestant position: Soli Deo Gloria – all worship, life, and salvation exist for God’s glory alone. Christ is central; human mediators do not share divine honour.

Roman Catholic position: Worship involves Christ and God, but also the veneration of Mary and the saints, often expressed in liturgy, indulgences, and devotionals.