The short answer: No.
The world is full of diverse theological perspectives. Hence, the notion that humans can become gods has found its way into certain belief systems. One such example is the teaching within some Christian circles that individuals possess a divine essence, often referred to as the “little gods” controversy. In this blog post, we will explore the misconceptions in Scripture that contribute to this belief and shed light on the biblical perspective.
Examining the Roots
The idea of humans becoming gods has its roots in various theological systems, including Mormonism and certain interpretations within Roman Catholicism. The concept also gained traction through the Word of Faith movement, with its belief that believers, as “little gods,” wield significant power through their words. However, it is essential to dissect the biblical passages often cited in support of this notion.
Psalm 82:6 and John 10:34
Psalm 82:6, stating, “I said, ‘You are gods; you are all sons of the Most High,’” is often quoted to support the idea of human divinity. Jesus echoes this in John 10:34. Yet, examining the immediate context reveals a warning in Psalm 82:7 that these “gods” will die like mere men. The reference pertains to mortal rulers, not the assertion of human divinity. This psalm serves as a cautionary message to unjust leaders who consider themselves divine.
Jesus’ Response to Accusations
Jesus, accused of blasphemy for claiming to be God’s Son, responded by referencing Psalm 82. He challenged the accusers, questioning why it was acceptable for human rulers to be called gods, yet He was accused of blasphemy for claiming a unique relationship with the Father. This highlights the misinterpretation of the “little gods” hypothesis.
Jesus as Fully God and Fully Man
The Christian belief in the hypostatic union underscores that Jesus was both fully God and fully man. His incarnation, as expressed in John 1:14, does not imply a reduction of His divinity but rather a profound act of taking on human form to redeem humanity. The belief in “little gods” threatens to diminish Jesus’ unique position in the Godhead.
Claiming Divinity: A Misguided Notion
The overall biblical narrative rejects the idea that humans can attain divinity. Isaiah 37:16 asserts that God is God alone. The Bible emphasizes that humans have never been, are not, and will never be gods. Accepting the “little gods” hypothesis implies a lesser divinity for Jesus, contrary to the biblical teaching of His full divinity alongside His full humanity.
The “little gods” controversy emerges from a misinterpretation of biblical passages, particularly Psalm 82:6 and John 10:34. Understanding these verses in their proper context reveals a warning against unjust rulers, not an endorsement of human divinity. Christians are called to embrace the truth that God alone is divine, and Jesus, as both fully God and fully man, holds a unique and irreplaceable position in the redemptive plan. The “little gods” notion stands as a misguided belief that threatens the foundational truths of Christianity.
