It’s an interesting question (with deep ramifications) debated by theologians with thick beards and arm patches on their jacket sleeves:
Does an emphasis on the Incarnation of Christ and the doctrine of deification take away from Christ’s salvific work on the Cross?
And maybe you’re thinking, “Why are they arguing over that to begin with?”
Well, the answer is important because a false understanding affects how you approach the Christian life in practical terms.
Only A Few Pilgrimage Spots Left!
The countdown is on! In less than 2 months, from March 9-18, I’ll be visiting some of the most well-known Marian shrines in the world (as well as sites dedicated to saints like John of the Cross, Teresa of Avila, & Ignatius of Loyola) on pilgrimage - and only a few seats are left!
Click HERE to see where we’re going and learn more about this life-changing Marian pilgrimage!
So what do Church Fathers like St. Athanasius have to say about any competition between the Incarnation, deification, and the Cross?
For that matter, what does Sacred Scripture say about it?
That’s the topic of this short clip from my recent conversation on the fascinating doctrine of deification with Dr. Daniel Keating.
Even if you’ve already listened to the entire episode, the entire topic of how we participate in the divine nature of God is nothing short of breathtaking...and worth another listen.
(There’s also a really interesting side conversation about how the book of 2 Peter wasn’t originally thought to be part of the canon of Scripture by some in the Church.)
God Bless!
Matthew
P.S. Only a few spots left on my 2026 Marian Shrines Pilgrimage! Sign up now!
