What is preterition?

Definition of Preterition

Preterition refers to the concept of God’s sovereign decision to “pass over” certain individuals in the matter of salvation. Within discussions of divine election and predestination, preterition is often contrasted with the idea of God’s active choosing of some for salvation. In simpler terms, while God extends saving grace to some, He leaves others in their natural state of enmity and guilt as a result of sin. This concept appears in theological frameworks that emphasize the sovereignty of the Creator in orchestrating all events, including the salvation of humankind.

Preterition does not imply that God exercises unjust favoritism. Rather, it highlights that all people are sinful and deserving of judgment, but God in His mercy elects some to salvation. Passages explored in connection with this teaching often focus on how divine grace is freely given rather than earned.

Etymology and Historical Background

The term “preterition” comes from Latin (praeteritio), signifying a “passing by” or leaving something aside. Early Christian theologians, especially in Augustinian and later Reformed traditions, used variations of this term when explaining how God’s sovereign grace interacts with human fallenness.

In the centuries following the early church, the doctrine of preterition became a subject of extensive debate during the Reformation and post-Reformation eras. Writers such as Augustine, John Calvin, and the attendees of the Synod of Dort (1618–1619) discussed the nuances of election (God’s choice to save certain individuals) and reprobation (the consequence for those not chosen), thereby forming the theological underpinnings that many still refer to today when discussing preterition.

Key Scriptural Passages

Several biblical passages shape the conversation around preterition:

• Romans 9:11–13: “Yet before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad—in order that God’s plan of election might stand, not by works but by Him who calls—she was told, ‘The older will serve the younger.’ So it is written: ‘Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.’”

This text underscores God’s freedom in choosing one over another, apart from individual merit.

• Ephesians 1:4–5: “For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will…”

Paul’s language points to an eternal determination of who would be recipients of salvation, suggesting that others are necessarily “passed over.”

• John 6:44: “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day.”

Here, Jesus identifies exclusively divine initiative in leading people to Himself. Implied is that not everyone is so drawn, reflecting the idea that some remain in their natural state.

Historical and Theological Development

1. Early Church and Augustine: Augustine set much of the groundwork by emphasizing humankind’s total depravity and God’s grace as entirely unmerited. Though not all of Augustine’s followers used the exact term “preterition,” his teaching on God’s sovereignty in salvation heavily contributed to its development.

2. Reformers and Confessional Statements: During the Protestant Reformation, leaders such as Martin Luther and John Calvin furthered these discussions. Confessions like the Westminster Confession of Faith elaborate on God’s eternal decree, speaking of how He elects some while others, by the counsel of His will, are not chosen and remain in sin.

3. Post-Reformation Debates: The Synod of Dort addressed the Remonstrant controversy in the early 17th century, articulating definitions of election and reprobation that included language similar to preterition. There, the Reformed tradition clarified that God’s leaving some in their guilt is not the same as unjust condemnation, since both mercy and justice remain consistent with His character.

Relation to the Doctrine of Election

Election and preterition are two sides of the same doctrinal coin: election speaks of God actively choosing to extend saving grace, whereas preterition speaks of God withholding that same grace and leaving some in their just condemnation. The biblical witness consistently depicts God as righteous in all His ways (Psalm 145:17), and it emphasizes humanity’s universal guilt (Romans 3:23).

Some theologians distinguish between “Supralapsarian” and “Infralapsarian” views—terms that define the logical ordering of God’s decrees regarding the fall of humanity and election. Both views retain the core principle that no one outside of Christ can earn salvation, and that those who are “passed over” are not treated unjustly but rather remain in their sin.

Pastoral and Practical Considerations

While preterition is a weighty concept, it is not meant to foster despair but rather humility and reverence. Believers who grapple with this doctrine often ask questions about divine fairness. Scripture points to the reality that God’s judgments, though beyond full human understanding, are rooted in righteousness and mercy (Romans 9:20–21).

This teaching also underscores reliance on prayer and evangelism. The Apostle Paul, after explaining election (Romans 9–11), continues to urge believers to proclaim the gospel (Romans 10:14–15). God uses the means of preaching to bring His elect to faith, while reminding all people that salvation is available to those who call upon the name of the Lord (Romans 10:13).

Consistent Witness of Biblical Manuscripts

Discussions of election and preterition across historical and modern translations rely on the original Greek and Hebrew manuscripts. Comparative studies of ancient sources, such as the early papyri, the Codex Sinaiticus, and later codices, show consistent references to divine sovereignty in salvation. Such manuscript evidence reinforces confidence that the biblical teaching on preterition has been preserved and faithfully transmitted across centuries.

Natural and Archaeological Corroborations

Although preterition primarily concerns God’s salvific plan, discussions of biblical reliability (including concepts of divine sovereignty) can also be supported by archaeological findings. Discoveries such as the Dead Sea Scrolls bolster the integrity of the Old Testament text. Likewise, consistent New Testament manuscript attestation—alongside records from first- and second-century writers—reinforces trust in the teaching of doctrines such as election.

Conclusion

Preterition presents a profound vision of the Creator’s sovereignty as found in Scripture, reminding readers that salvation is fully of grace. While it raises searching questions about human freedom, divine justice, and God’s ultimate purposes, it stands on firm biblical ground. Throughout church history, theologians have clarified, debated, and refined the concept, testifying that it aligns with both the holiness and goodness of the One who ordains all things.

Ultimately, preterition directs our attention to the depth of sin and the immeasurable glory of Christ’s redeeming work. As Scripture declares: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!” (Romans 11:33).