Biblical Answer

The Concept of Theosis in Eastern Orthodoxy and its Reconciliation with Justification by Faith Alone

Theosis in Eastern Orthodoxy

Theosis, in Eastern Orthodoxy, refers to the process of becoming like God through the experience of God's grace. This concept is rooted in the understanding that God is the ultimate goal of human existence, and that the purpose of humanity is to become part of the divine nature. In this context, theosis is not just a future hope, but a present reality that can be experienced through the life of prayer, the sacraments, and the cultivation of virtues. Theosis is seen as a gradual process of deification, where the individual becomes more and more like God, ultimately achieving union with Him in the age to come.

Justification by Faith Alone in Western Christianity

Justification by faith alone is a central doctrine in Western Christianity, particularly in Protestant traditions. This doctrine holds that salvation is not achieved through good works or human efforts, but rather through faith in Jesus Christ. Justification is seen as a one-time event, where the individual is declared righteous by God, not because of their own merits, but because of their faith in Christ. This doctrine is rooted in the understanding that humanity is sinful and unable to save itself, and that God's grace is the only means of salvation. The focus is on the individual's relationship with God, and the assurance of salvation that comes through faith in Christ.

Reconciliation between Theosis and Justification by Faith Alone

While theosis in Eastern Orthodoxy and justification by faith alone in Western Christianity may seem like two distinct concepts, there are areas of convergence. Both traditions agree that salvation is a gift from God, and that humanity is unable to save itself. Both also emphasize the importance of faith in Jesus Christ as the means of salvation. However, theosis in Eastern Orthodoxy is more focused on the process of becoming like God, whereas justification by faith alone in Western Christianity is more focused on the declaration of righteousness by God. A possible reconciliation between the two concepts could be seen in the idea that justification by faith alone is the initial step in the process of theosis. Through faith in Christ, the individual is declared righteous and begins the process of becoming more like God. This process of theosis is then continued through the life of prayer, the sacraments, and the cultivation of virtues. Ultimately, theosis can be seen as the fulfillment of justification by faith alone, where the individual achieves union with God in the age to come. This reconciliation highlights the importance of both traditions, and the need for a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other's perspectives.