Solomon says, “O Lord, the God of Israel, there is no God like You in heaven above or on earth beneath” (1 Kings 8:23). Critical scholars note that this passage seems to support henotheism: the notion that there is one infinite-personal God who is in control of other gods. This is sort of a mix between monotheism and polytheism. Is this the case?
While at first glance we might believe that this passage supports henotheism, the context precludes this possibility. Later in the chapter, Solomon says, “The Lord is God; there is no one else” (v.60). Moreover, the psalmist explains, “For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens” (Ps. 96:5). Likewise, Isaiah writes, “Declare the things that are going to come afterward, that we may know that you are gods; indeed, do good or evil, that we may anxiously look about us and fear together. 24 Behold, you are of no account, and your work amounts to nothing; he who chooses you is an abomination” (Isa. 41:23-24).
James earned a Master’s degree in Theological Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, graduating magna cum laude. He is the founder of Evidence Unseen and the author of several books. James enjoys serving as a pastor at Dwell Community Church in Columbus, Ohio, where he lives with his wife and their two sons.