What is lapsarian definition?

The lapsarian definition refers to the theological debate concerning the order of events in the Fall of Man and its relation to the divine plan of salvation. The term derives from the Latin word "lapsus", meaning "fall".

There are different views on lapsarianism, but historically, they have been categorized into four main positions:

1. Supralapsarianism: This view asserts that God predestined certain individuals to salvation before He even created humanity. According to this view, the Fall was a necessary part of God's plan, as it enabled Him to demonstrate His justice and mercy.

2. Infralapsarianism: This view believes that God chose to create humanity first, then foreordained the Fall as a consequence of the free will of Adam and Eve. Infralapsarians attribute the decision to save individuals to God's grace and mercy rather than predestination.

3. Sublapsarianism: This view asserts that God foresaw the Fall and decided to save some individuals but not all. This position assumes that God desired to save at least some people, but limited His mercy to a select few.

4. Amyraldism: This view asserts that God predestined some individuals to salvation, but not others. However, Christ's atonement was made available to all people, not just the elect. This position is sometimes called "hypothetical universalism."

These various positions on lapsarianism has been debated for centuries within the Christian Church.