Theosis als verleiding: Calvijns theologie als tegenwicht

The patristic notion of deification has become popular because of a retrieval of Eastern theological motifs, dissatisfaction with Western modernity, and the attractiveness of spiritualities of transformation. Some Reformed theologians embrace the idea of deification, others decidedly reject it because of the distinction between Creator and creature, and problematic aspects of participation ontologies. Calvin’s theology shows a logic of participation that is more theologically balanced than the idea of deification. While the terminology of deification is unhelpful, the aspects of participation (in Christ) and transformation suit a Reformed theology well.