Partialist

Partialist refers to a theological position within Christianity, particularly concerning the atonement. A partialist believes that Christ's atonement was intended for and effective only for the elect, those whom God has chosen for salvation. This view contrasts with universalism, which holds that Christ's atonement is for all humanity, and with other views that may see the atonement as providing a sufficient provision for all but only an efficient application to the elect.

The core tenet of partialism is that the atonement's design and execution are specifically limited to a select group. This limitation is seen as stemming from God's sovereign will and divine plan. The elect are understood to be those who will inevitably be saved due to God's predestination. Therefore, the atoning work of Christ is viewed as having been definitively accomplished for them alone, securing their salvation.

This position is often associated with certain Calvinistic interpretations, though the precise terminology and emphasis can vary among theologians. It emphasizes the particularity of God's saving grace and the efficacy of Christ's sacrifice for those chosen by God. The focus is on the certainty of salvation for the elect, as guaranteed by the atonement.