Doctrine of Deification in the Greek Patristic Tradition

Deification in the Greek patristic tradition was the fulfilment of the destiny for which humanity was created - not merely salvation from sin but entry into the fullness of the divine life of the Trinity. This book, the first on the subject for over sixty years, traces the history of deification from its birth as a second-century metaphor with biblical roots to its maturity as a doctrine central to the spiritual life of the Byzantine Church. Drawing attention to therichness and diversity of the patristic approaches from Irenaeus to Maximus the Confessor, Norman Russell offers a full discussion of the background and context of the doctrine, at the same time highlighting its distinctively Christian character.

Norman Russell presents his subject with the assurance of a master... He displays not just understanding of the material, but also a clear awareness of the field of patristic studies... this is a masterpiece of what historical discussion of Christian doctrine should be: historically acute and theologically perceptive., The scope and precision of this book are beyond praise...the work is an admirable resource and could hardly be bettered.

Norman Russell was formerly Vice-Provost of the London Oratory and is now an independent scholar.