Is Dan McClellan Right? No Monotheism in the Bible?
Mar 26, 2025
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Dive into an engaging discussion about monotheism in biblical texts, challenging traditional views on the subject. The conversation highlights the unique supremacy of the God of Israel while also recognizing the existence of other deities. Fascinating insights reveal the contrast between the all-powerful Israelite God and the impotent idols of pagan cultures. By exploring scriptural interpretations, the dialogue invites a fresh perspective on divine hierarchy and the complexities surrounding the concept of one true God.
The podcast argues that the concept of monotheism in the Bible is complex, indicating the existence of other deities alongside a supreme God.
Rhetorical strategies within biblical texts highlight the impotence of idols and other 'gods', reinforcing the supremacy of the God of Israel.
Deep dives
The Nature of Monotheism in the Bible
The argument presented asserts that monotheism, understood as the belief in the existence of only one God, is not accurately reflected in the Bible itself. Throughout the biblical text, particularly in Isaiah and Deuteronomy, there are numerous references to other deities, which suggests that the concept of monotheism may be a later interpretation. For example, passages that affirm God's superiority often use rhetoric that could imply that other gods exist but are not worthy of worship. This distinction challenges traditional definitions of monotheism, suggesting that the God of Israel is portrayed as supreme while still acknowledging the existence of these other entities.
Rhetoric and the Existence of Other Gods
The biblical text employs specific rhetorical strategies to convey the non-existence or impotence of other gods, often portraying them as mere constructs made by human hands. For instance, in 2 Kings and Psalms, references to idols emphasize their inability to act or perceive, presenting a stark contrast to the active and powerful nature of the God of Israel. Other entities, such as the prophets of Baal in the narrative of Elijah, serve to reinforce that these gods do not possess real agency, which further suggests their lack of ontological status. This rhetorical approach implies that the designation of 'gods' within the scripture often indicates figures that have been created and manipulated by humans rather than true divine beings.
Understanding Elohim and Created Beings
The term 'Elohim' in biblical scripture encompasses both divine beings such as angels and demons, further complicating the discussion of monotheism. Many of these beings are portrayed as subservient to the God of Israel, which positions them as part of a hierarchy rather than as competing deities. For example, the text in Deuteronomy identifies demons as 'gods,' suggesting that even these spiritual entities do not threaten the supremacy of the God of Israel. Thus, the framework of biblical monotheism can accommodate the existence of other beings while still affirming the singular sovereignty of the Creator.
Gavin Ortlund interacts with Dan McClellan's video about monotheism in the Bible. Dan's video: https://youtu.be/i6sD4Mc2-m8?si=wwxz07H5N_OlcHvcMatthew Lynch's Article: Matthew Lynch, “Mapping Monotheism: Modes of Monotheistic Rhetoric in the Hebrew Bible,” Vetus Testamentum 64 (2014), 47-68.Pagan Monotheism in Late Antiquity: https://global.oup.com/academic/product/pagan-monotheism-in-late-antiquity-9780199248018?cc=us&lang=en&Truth Unites (https://truthunites.org) exists to promote gospel assurance through theological depth. Gavin Ortlund (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is President of Truth Unites, Visiting Professor of Historical Theology at Phoenix Seminary, and Theologian-in-Residence at Immanuel Nashville.SUPPORT:Tax Deductible Support: https://truthunites.org/donate/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/truthunitesFOLLOW:Website: https://truthunites.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truth.unites/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gavinortlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TruthUnitesPage/
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