Editing Divinization (Christian) (section)

=== Reformed theology ===
Early during the [[Protestant Reformation|Reformation]], thought was given to the doctrine of [[union with Christ]] (''unio cum Christo'') as the precursor to the entire process of salvation and [[sanctification]]. This was especially so in the thought of [[John Calvin]].<ref>{{harvnb|Tan|2003}}</ref>

[[Henry Scougal]]'s work ''The Life of God in the Soul of Man'' is sometimes cited as important in keeping alive among Protestants the ideas central to the doctrine. In the introductory passages of his book, Scougal describes "religion" in terms that evoke the doctrine of theosis:

{{quote|... a resemblance of the divine perfections, the image of the Almighty shining in the soul of man: ... a real participation of his nature, it is a beam of the eternal light, a drop of that infinite ocean of goodness; and they who are endued with it, may be said to have 'God dwelling in their souls', and 'Christ formed within them'.<ref>{{harvnb|Scougal|1868|p=13}}</ref>}}