Sublapsarian meaning

Sublapsarian refers to a theological position that emphasizes God's decree of allowing the Fall of mankind before the decree of salvation.


Sublapsarian definitions

Word backwards nairaspalbus
Part of speech The word "sublapsarian" is an adjective.
Syllabic division sub-lap-sar-i-an
Plural The plural of the word sublapsarian is sublapsarians.
Total letters 12
Vogais (3) u,a,i
Consonants (6) s,b,l,p,r,n

Sublapsarian is a theological doctrine that falls under the larger umbrella of the Christian doctrine of predestination. This doctrine specifically deals with the order of divine decrees in relation to the Fall of Man and the salvation of humanity.

Origin and Definition

The term "sublapsarian" comes from the Latin words "sub" meaning "after" and "lapsus" meaning "fall." In essence, the sublapsarian position asserts that God's decree of election and reprobation occurred after the fall of man into sin. This places the creation of humanity at the forefront of divine intentions, with redemption being a response to the fallen state of humanity.

Comparison to Supralapsarianism

Sublapsarianism stands in contrast to supralapsarianism, another doctrine within the realm of predestination. Supralapsarianism teaches that God's decree of election and reprobation was made before the fall of man, emphasizing God's sovereignty and absolute control over all events, including the Fall.

Implications and Interpretations

Sublapsarianism offers a perspective that seeks to reconcile the concepts of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. It emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity as the context for God's decree of election and reprobation, highlighting the need for redemption and salvation in light of sin.

Sublapsarian theology has been a topic of much debate and discussion within Christian theological circles, with various interpretations and applications based on different theological frameworks and denominational backgrounds.

Overall, sublapsarianism provides a framework for understanding the complex relationship between God's sovereignty, human free will, and the overarching narrative of redemption throughout history.


Sublapsarian Examples

  1. The sublapsarian view holds that God decreed the fall of man and then chose some to be saved.
  2. In sublapsarian theology, God's plan for salvation includes the existence of sin.
  3. The sublapsarian position emphasizes the sovereignty of God in determining who will be saved.
  4. Sublapsarianism posits that God's decree of election comes after His decree to allow the fall.
  5. Sublapsarian doctrine differs from infralapsarianism in its order of God's decrees.
  6. In discussing predestination, theologians often debate the merits of infralapsarian vs. sublapsarian views.
  7. The sublapsarian perspective seeks to reconcile God's sovereignty with human responsibility.
  8. Some Calvinists adhere to a sublapsarian understanding of predestination.
  9. Sublapsarian theology raises questions about the nature of God's foreknowledge.
  10. The sublapsarian viewpoint highlights the tension between divine sovereignty and human free will.


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  • Updated 23/06/2024 - 22:30:37