The question of deification in the theology of John Calvin

Abstract

Calvin scholars debate whether Calvin�s theology supports the Eastern Orthodox theosis, which advocates the believers� participation in the intrinsic divine life, mediated by Christ�s humanity in their union with Christ. To attempt to give an answer to the question of theosis in Calvin�s theology, this article isolates a framework used by the proponents of Eastern Orthodox theosis in Calvin�s theology. The framework centres around the three aspects of the nature of the salvific gifts, the nature of the believers� union with Christ and the relation of Christ�s two natures in their hypostatic union. The re-examination of these three aspects through the lens of Calvin�s theology shows that it is hard to hold that Calvin teaches Eastern Orthodox theosis.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implication: As a Reformed intradisciplinary assessment of the question of theosis in Calvin�s theology, this article maintains that the proponents of Calvin�s doctrine of theosis overlook his Chalcedonian Christology, the personal dimension of his idea of union with Christ and his emphasis on Christ�s salvific work in his humanity.

Keywords

• Calvin
• Deification
• Hypostatic union
• Union with Christ
• Justification