Understanding Infralapsarianism: A Theological Perspective

Infralapsarianism is a theological position that holds that the election of God is not based on the foreseen faith or works of human beings, but rather on the sovereign will of God. This view is often associated with the Reformed tradition and is contrasted with supralapsarianism, which holds that the election of God is based on the foreseen faith or works of human beings.

Infralapsarianism emphasizes the absolute sovereignty of God in election and argues that God's choice of certain individuals for salvation is not based on any inherent qualities or merits within those individuals, but rather on God's own good pleasure and will. This view is often associated with a strong emphasis on the doctrine of grace and the belief that salvation is a free gift from God, received by faith alone.

Infralapsarianism is sometimes also referred to as "reprobation" or "passive election," as it emphasizes the idea that God passively allows some individuals to be saved, rather than actively choosing them for salvation based on their own merits. This view is often contrasted with supralapsarianism, which is sometimes referred to as "active election" or "elective grace."

Infralapsarianism has been influential in the development of Reformed theology and has been associated with a strong emphasis on the sovereignty of God and the doctrine of grace. However, it has also been the subject of controversy and debate within the Reformed tradition, with some theologians arguing that it can lead to a neglect of the importance of human faith and responsibility in the salvation process.