The Order of Sin - Ordo Peccatum

Many theology geeks are familiar with the term Ordo Salutis and its meaning "the order of salvation". Yet, few have considered the Ordo Peccatum, or "the order of sin".

Most non-Augustinians think of sin as an offense which man commits against God or their fellow human beings; a lack of love resulting in harming ourselves and others. Yet, for the Augustinian, particularly the Calvinist, they hold a very unique understanding. In this view, in eternity past, before God ever created (supralapsarian), or shortly thereafter but before Adam sinned (infralapsarian) God thought up every sin and trespass which man would ever commit. Then, God desired each of these sins occur in an exact and specific action. From their, they believe He decreed these sins occur and set about using His vast power to bring them to pass - going so far as to cause Adam's sin, and cursing mankind with an inherited sinful nature, ensuring we were incapable of anything but sin. Yet, they claim God isn't responsible for our sins. This is of course nothing more than an attempt to blame God for sin, and play the role of a victim. It stems from their embrace of Greek philosophy, particularly Platonism. Yet, such horrendous teaching exists and as such needs refuting. The best refutation is often simply articulating it and letting others consider it in light of Scripture.