A Christian Approach to Deification: What Protestants can learn from Eastern Orthodoxy
Faculty Sponsor
Karin Heller, Whitworth University
Research Project Abstract
Christ was made man that we might be made God.” This statement by Saint Athanasius captures one of the primary elements of Orthodox Spirituality called Deification or theosis, accomplished in Christ. The emphasis on one’s relationship with Christ as a journey rather than a destination marks one of the differences with Western spirituality. This presentation explores primary differences between Orthodox and Western spirituality. A major focus will be put on what it means to “become like God” for Protestant communities and movements and what they could learn from Eastern Orthodox liturgy, practices, and theology.
Session Number
RS12
Location
Robinson 210
Abstract Number
RS12-c
A Christian Approach to Deification: What Protestants can learn from Eastern Orthodoxy
Robinson 210
Christ was made man that we might be made God.” This statement by Saint Athanasius captures one of the primary elements of Orthodox Spirituality called Deification or theosis, accomplished in Christ. The emphasis on one’s relationship with Christ as a journey rather than a destination marks one of the differences with Western spirituality. This presentation explores primary differences between Orthodox and Western spirituality. A major focus will be put on what it means to “become like God” for Protestant communities and movements and what they could learn from Eastern Orthodox liturgy, practices, and theology.