Учение об обожении финской лютеранской школы как точка соприкосновения с православным понятием теозиса

Abstract

This article examines the teachings of the Finnish Lutheran school and the Orthodox Church on theosis with the purpose of trying to find points of agreement between what would otherwise at first glance seem to be incompatible traditions. First, the theological basis of the doctrine of theosis in the Orthodox Church is explored. Next, the Lutheran concept of soteriology is discussed and a parallel is drawn between justification according to Luther and theosis in the Eastern tradition. Then, the concept of theosis in the Finnish interpretation of the writings of Luther and the Orthodox Church is analyzed.This analysis revealed common ground in four areas: first, in their similar definitions of theosis; second, in their perceptions on the essence of faith; third, in the parallels between the ontological aspects of Lutheran justification and the Orthodox church’s central soteriological concept of theosis; and fourth, in their analogous view on the method of theosis through the sacraments and the manifestation of love.The doctrine of theosis, therefore, has ecumenical potential and could serve as a foundation for continued interfaith dialogue. The search for common ground helps to discover points of similarity between opposing church traditions. This promotes mutual understanding among churches, which, in turn, is a testament of love between Christians.This study is useful for students of religious institutions and laymen who are interested in issues of interfaith dialogue and is particularly beneficial to those who are on the periphery of Eastern and Western traditions.