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The Sean McDowell Show
Can Christians Become Divine? A Surprising Doctrine Returns (w/ Paul Copan)
Feb 14, 2025
Join Paul Copan, a leading Christian philosopher and editor of "Transformed into the Same Image," as he dives into the rich doctrine of deification, or theosis. He explores its historical roots in Eastern Orthodoxy and its growing acceptance in Protestantism. Paul highlights transformative connections with Christ and contrasts Christian views of deification with those of Latter-day Saints. He reflects on insights from figures like Martin Luther and discusses the profound spiritual growth and identity believers gain through their divine relationship.
59:27
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Quick takeaways
- The doctrine of deification emphasizes believers' transformation into God's image through grace, maintaining a distinction between Creator and creature.
- Historical roots of deification within Protestantism echo themes discussed by earlier Reformers, showcasing its significance for spiritual growth and church unity.
Deep dives
Understanding Deification
Deification, also known as theosis or divinization, is a doctrine primarily linked to Eastern Orthodox Christianity, which emphasizes the transformation of believers through a union with Christ into the same image of God. The key to this concept lies in distinguishing between the essence of God and the energies of God, where believers participate in God’s divine life but retain their individual identities. This idea is rooted in scripture, referencing passages such as 2 Peter 1:4 about becoming partakers of the divine nature, and 2 Corinthians 3 about transformation into God's image. Prominent theologians like C.S. Lewis and Jonathan Edwards have echoed this thought, highlighting that this transformation is the central theme of Christianity, indicating a path where believers grow in divine likeness through God's grace.
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