Ithy Logo

Understanding the Relationship Between Infralapsarianism and Single Predestination

Exploring the interplay of divine decrees in Reformed Theology

theological books and bible on wooden table

Key Takeaways

  • Logical Sequence: Infralapsarianism establishes a chronological order of God's decrees, positioning election after the fall.
  • Emphasis on Grace: Single predestination focuses solely on God's initiative to save the elect, highlighting divine grace without active reprobation.
  • Theological Harmony: Both concepts complement each other within Reformed theology, balancing God's sovereignty with human responsibility.

Introduction

In the realm of Reformed theology, understanding the intricacies of divine decrees is paramount for comprehending the mechanisms of salvation and human fallenness. Two pivotal concepts in this discourse are infralapsarianism and single predestination. While they address different aspects of God's eternal plan, their interplay offers a nuanced perspective on how divine sovereignty operates in relation to human sin and redemption.

Defining Infralapsarianism

The Logical Order of Decrees

Infralapsarianism is a theological stance within Reformed theology that seeks to elucidate the logical sequence of God's eternal decrees. The term derives from the Latin words infra ("below" or "after") and lapsus ("fall"), indicating that the decree concerning election occurs after the decree permitting the fall of humanity. This perspective stands in contrast to supralapsarianism, where the decree of election precedes the decree of the fall.

Core Components of Infralapsarianism

The infralapsarian view outlines a specific order in God's decrees:

  1. Creation: God decrees to create humanity, establishing the foundation for His redemptive plan.
  2. Permitting the Fall: God permits the fall of humanity into sin, acknowledging the reality of human free will and the consequent need for redemption.
  3. Election: In response to the fallen state of mankind, God elects certain individuals for salvation, underscoring His grace and mercy.
  4. Provision of Salvation: God decrees the means of salvation through Jesus Christ, effectuating the redemption of the elect.

This sequence emphasizes that election is contingent upon the existence of a fallen humanity, positioning God's salvific work as a response to human sinfulness.

Understanding Single Predestination

Defining Single Predestination

Single predestination is a doctrine that asserts God's active role in predestining certain individuals for salvation (election) without concurrently predestining others for damnation (reprobation). Unlike double predestination, which posits that God actively chooses some for salvation and others for condemnation, single predestination focuses solely on the elect, leaving the reprobate to their own sinful state.

Key Features of Single Predestination

  • Focus on Grace: The doctrine underscores God's initiative and grace in saving the elect, highlighting the benevolent aspect of divine providence.
  • Passive Reprobation: Those not elected for salvation are not the objects of an active decree of damnation but are instead left to face the consequences of their own sins.
  • Human Responsibility: Emphasizes human free will and responsibility in rejecting salvation, thereby refraining from attributing reprobation to God's active will.

The Interrelationship Between Infralapsarianism and Single Predestination

Logical Harmony

Infralapsarianism and single predestination harmonize logically within Reformed theology by establishing a coherent sequence of divine decrees. Infralapsarianism's placement of election after the fall aligns seamlessly with single predestination's focus on God's selective grace without active reprobation. This alignment underscores that God's decision to save operates within the context of a fallen humanity, avoiding the implication that reprobation is an intrinsic part of God's initial plan.

Emphasis on Mercy and Grace

Both infralapsarianism and single predestination emphasize God's mercy in the act of election. Infralapsarianism frames election as a gracious response to human sin, while single predestination highlights the singular focus of God's salvific endeavor. This shared emphasis fosters a theological perspective that prioritizes divine benevolence and avoids portraying God as arbitrarily deciding the fate of individuals.

Avoidance of Double Predestination

By aligning infralapsarianism with single predestination, theologians can navigate away from the more contentious doctrine of double predestination. Since infralapsarianism positions election post-fall and single predestination refrains from actively decreeing reprobation, the combined approach mitigates the harsher implications of double predestination. This strategic avoidance maintains the integrity of God's justice and mercy without attributing evil intent to His eternal plan.

Theological Coherence

The synergy between infralapsarianism and single predestination contributes to a theologically coherent understanding of salvation. By situating election within the framework of a fallen humanity and emphasizing God's sole active role in salvation, the two doctrines collectively uphold the sovereignty of God while acknowledging human responsibility. This balance ensures that the doctrines do not amplify divine determinism to the detriment of human agency.

Implications for Reformed Theology

Balancing Sovereignty and Free Will

The integration of infralapsarianism and single predestination allows Reformed theology to maintain a robust assertion of God's sovereignty in salvation. It posits that while God's decrees are ultimate and uncontestable, human free will plays a role in accepting or rejecting salvation. This balance ensures that the doctrines do not undermine the moral responsibility attributed to individuals.

Enhancing Understanding of Divine Justice

By avoiding the active decree of reprobation, the combined approach of infralapsarianism and single predestination presents a view of divine justice that is both fair and merciful. It posits that condemnation results from human sin rather than divine predetermination, aligning with biblical portrayals of God as just and righteous. This perspective fosters a more compassionate theology that upholds the character of God as inherently good.

Pastoral and Ethical Considerations

The doctrines influence pastoral practices by providing comfort in the assurance of salvation for the elect while encouraging ethical living without the fear of arbitrary condemnation. It reinforces the belief that salvation is a gift of grace, motivating believers to live in gratitude and righteousness. Simultaneously, it emphasizes the importance of evangelism and outreach, trusting in God's sovereign selection while actively seeking to share the gospel.

A Comparative Overview

Aspect Infralapsarianism Single Predestination
Order of Decrees Election follows the decree to permit the fall God elects some for salvation without actively decreeing damnation of others
Focus Logical framework for divine decrees God's grace in election without active reprobation
Reprobation Permissive, not actively decreed Permissive, individuals left in their sinful state
Theological Implication Balances sovereignty with human sin Emphasizes divine mercy and avoids deterministic condemnation

Conclusion

The relationship between infralapsarianism and single predestination exemplifies a sophisticated theological synergy within Reformed traditions. Infralapsarianism provides the logical sequence that places divine election in response to humanity's fall, while single predestination focuses on God's exclusive role in electing individuals for salvation without actively condemning others. This interplay underscores a balanced view of divine sovereignty and human responsibility, presenting a theology that is both coherent and compassionate. By emphasizing God's grace and maintaining a clear distinction between election and reprobation, these doctrines collectively uphold the integrity of God's character as just, merciful, and sovereign.


References


Last updated January 19, 2025
Ask me more