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The concept of divinization or theosis, becoming like God, is a profound and sacred doctrine in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). This principle suggests that humans can become more like our Heavenly Father in nature and attributes, striving toward spiritual maturity and eventual exaltation. This essay offers a deep dive into the historical, biblical, and theological foundations of this belief, which sheds light not only on its significance within LDS doctrine but also its place in a broader Christian context.
Historical Context
Historically, the idea of becoming like God can be traced back to early Christian teachings. Early Church Fathers like Irenaeus and Athanasius spoke of becoming god-like or deified, positing that it was the destiny of human beings to become more like God - a concept stemming from the intimate relationship with God that believers are encouraged to cultivate. This aligns with Latter-day Saint teachings which assert that potential divinity lies within the core of human identity as literal children of God.
Scriptural Foundations
The notion of becoming like God is heavily supported by scriptures. In the Old Testament, humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), which can be interpreted as having the potential to acquire His attributes and character. In the New Testament, passages like 2 Peter 1:4 discuss becoming "partakers of the divine nature," suggesting a transformative process aligned with sanctification and holiness, which is akin to LDS beliefs of eternal progression.
The Book of Mormon, another testament of Jesus Christ and a central scripture in LDS faith, also offers insights into this doctrine. It affirms the potential of humans to become like God through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and through following His teachings and commandments diligently.
Theological Implications
The LDS Church's view on becoming like God is rooted in the plan of salvation outlined by God, which emphasizes the infinite and eternal potential of His children. This plan makes it possible for humans, through the Atonement of Christ, to overcome mortal limitations and progress toward divine nature. Importantly, this belief does not imply that humans will ever surpass God in power or glory or exist independently of Him, but that they can grow to become gods, conditionally upon their righteousness and the grace of Christ.
Practical Applications
The doctrine that we are to become like God holds significant everyday implications for Latter-day Saints, shaping their daily choices, interactions, and spiritual development. This aspiration for godliness fundamentally transforms how believers live, make decisions, and relate to others.
Daily Decision-Making
Understanding their divine potential influences Latter-day Saints in their daily decision-making processes. As they remember their ultimate goal of becoming like God, they are more likely to choose paths that align with this eternal perspective. In the Book of Mormon, Nephi exemplifies this when he declares, "I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded" (1 Nephi 3:7). His readiness to obey divine commands, despite challenges, reflects how the understanding of our divine destiny can affect everyday choices.
Understanding their divine potential influences Latter-day Saints in their daily decision-making processes. As they remember their ultimate goal of becoming like God, they are more likely to choose paths that align with this eternal perspective. In the Book of Mormon, Nephi exemplifies this when he declares, "I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded" (1 Nephi 3:7). His readiness to obey divine commands, despite challenges, reflects how the understanding of our divine destiny can affect everyday choices.
Interactions with Others
The pursuit of becoming like God deeply affects how Latter-day Saints interact with others. Doctrine and Covenants 121:45 advises, "Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly." This scripture underscores the importance of developing Christlike attributes such as charity and virtue, which directly influence the manner in which members treat everyone around them. Demonstrating genuine love and kindness not only mirrors the character of Christ but actively builds a community reflective of divine qualities.
Personal Spiritual Growth
Seeking personal revelation and engaging in sincere prayer are critical practices in personal spiritual development. James 1:5 in the New Testament encourages believers to ask God for wisdom without wavering. The concept of receiving personal revelation through prayer is magnified in Latter-day Saint theology, emphasizing continuous communication with Heavenly Father to guide and enrich one's spiritual journey.
Furthermore, adhering strictly to God’s commandments is another practical application of striving to become like God. The scriptures are replete with admonitions and promises regarding the blessings of keeping the commandments. For example, John 14:15, where Jesus states, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." This directive highlights the significance of obedience in demonstrating our love for Christ and our commitment to follow His path.
Seeking personal revelation and engaging in sincere prayer are critical practices in personal spiritual development. James 1:5 in the New Testament encourages believers to ask God for wisdom without wavering. The concept of receiving personal revelation through prayer is magnified in Latter-day Saint theology, emphasizing continuous communication with Heavenly Father to guide and enrich one's spiritual journey.
Furthermore, adhering strictly to God’s commandments is another practical application of striving to become like God. The scriptures are replete with admonitions and promises regarding the blessings of keeping the commandments. For example, John 14:15, where Jesus states, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." This directive highlights the significance of obedience in demonstrating our love for Christ and our commitment to follow His path.
Serving Others
Service to others is a direct application of trying to be like God. Christ’s ministry was marked by His service to humanity, ranging from healing the sick to comforting the sorrowful. In Mosiah 2:17, King Benjamin explains, "When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God." This passage underlines the belief that serving others is serving God, a central aspect of Christlike living. It represents a tangible way to emulate God’s love and to work towards our own divine potential.
In Short, the concept of becoming like God provides a comprehensive framework for Latter-day Saints to structure their lives in a purpose-driven, spiritually enriching manner. By making decisions that reflect eternal truths, treating others with Christlike love, seeking ongoing revelation, obeying divine commandments, and serving humanity, they move closer to realizing their divine nature and capacity. Each of these practical applications serves as a stepping stone in the path toward becoming like God, shaping not only individual destinies but also influencing the broader community and the world.
Cultural and Religious Sensitivity
Service to others is a direct application of trying to be like God. Christ’s ministry was marked by His service to humanity, ranging from healing the sick to comforting the sorrowful. In Mosiah 2:17, King Benjamin explains, "When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God." This passage underlines the belief that serving others is serving God, a central aspect of Christlike living. It represents a tangible way to emulate God’s love and to work towards our own divine potential.
In Short, the concept of becoming like God provides a comprehensive framework for Latter-day Saints to structure their lives in a purpose-driven, spiritually enriching manner. By making decisions that reflect eternal truths, treating others with Christlike love, seeking ongoing revelation, obeying divine commandments, and serving humanity, they move closer to realizing their divine nature and capacity. Each of these practical applications serves as a stepping stone in the path toward becoming like God, shaping not only individual destinies but also influencing the broader community and the world.
Cultural and Religious Sensitivity
The doctrine of becoming like God is a core aspect of Latter-day Saint theology, though it is recognized that this concept can be viewed differently by those from other Christian traditions. This divergence in belief may lead to theological discussions or even friction. Despite these differences, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints upholds its teachings while also valuing and respecting the variety of Christian faith perspectives.
This commitment to both doctrinal integrity and interfaith respect is evident in both scripture and Latter-day Saint leaders' discourse. Acts 17:29 states, "Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device." This suggests a broader Christian acknowledgment that humans have a divine heritage, which aligns somewhat with the LDS view of divinity as part of our spiritual progression.
Furthermore, modern apostles and prophets frequently emphasize the importance of respectful religious dialogue. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, in a general conference address, highlighted the importance of unity and respect among different Christian denominations, advocating for an approach that focuses on commonalities rather than differences. This perspective fosters an environment where diverse religious views can be shared openly and respectfully.
Ultimately, the LDS Church’s stance on becoming like God invites members to aspire to divine qualities and eternal progression while promoting a harmonious relationship with all followers of Christ. By respecting the rich tapestry of Christian beliefs, the Church not only maintains its foundational doctrines but also engages actively in interfaith dialogue, contributing to mutual understanding and respect across diverse religious landscapes.
To Summarize the Topic
"Becoming Like God" is not just a theological statement but a driving force for how Latter-day Saints view their purpose on Earth and their relationship with the divine. This doctrine encourages members to view their life's challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, continually progressing toward a divine potential that harmonizes with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
In sum, the LDS Church's explanation of becoming like God provides a comprehensive, rich theological framework that encourages deep, personal spiritual development and a hopeful outlook toward eternal life. It is a doctrine that not only differentiates the LDS faith but connects it deeply to the broad, historical Christian contemplation on the nature of God and humanity's relation to the divine. Understanding this doctrine can lead to a more profound appreciation of human potential and divine love.
"Becoming Like God" is not just a theological statement but a driving force for how Latter-day Saints view their purpose on Earth and their relationship with the divine. This doctrine encourages members to view their life's challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, continually progressing toward a divine potential that harmonizes with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
In sum, the LDS Church's explanation of becoming like God provides a comprehensive, rich theological framework that encourages deep, personal spiritual development and a hopeful outlook toward eternal life. It is a doctrine that not only differentiates the LDS faith but connects it deeply to the broad, historical Christian contemplation on the nature of God and humanity's relation to the divine. Understanding this doctrine can lead to a more profound appreciation of human potential and divine love.
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