Have Protestants Abandoned Their Roots? | Gavin Ortlund

Many Christian leaders may be able to say that they're Protestant, but how many actually know why? In this thoughtful overview, Gavin Ortlund explains what it means to be Protestant and why the core convictions of the Protestant Reformation still matter for Christians today. He explores key doctrines such as *sola fide* (justification by faith alone) and *sola scriptura* (Scripture as the church’s highest authority), while comparing Protestant views of forgiveness, church authority, and Christian unity with those of Roman Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox Church traditions. The discussion also addresses common criticisms of Protestantism, including division and schism, and offers a gracious call for truth, humility, and unity among believers. If you’re asking whether Protestants have forgotten their roots, this video provides historical insight, theological clarity, and practical encouragement for modern Christians. ____ 00:00 Introduction 01:05 Why Theology Matters 01:24 What Is the True Church? 01:41 Forgiveness of Sins: Protestant vs. Catholic 02:40 Why People Leave Protestantism 03:41 Responding to the "Schism" Charge 05:43 Two Core Protestant Distinctives: Sola Fide and Sola Scriptura 08:01 Are Catholics & Orthodox Christians? 09:43 Valid Criticisms of Protestantism 10:28 A Call to Unity ____ You can learn more about Gavin's ministry at https://truthunites.org/ or https://www.youtube.com/@UCtWDnUokOD--s2aFxLT5uVA. Join Moody Theological Seminary's Global Leadership Center in Bangkok! Lifted Up Strength for the Journey, Together | June 16–20, 2026 REGISTER NOW: https://www.moodyconferences.com/glc/registration/