The OP is kinda misleading.
The earliest theory was Random Theory (one I agree with).
BUT scholars question that Origen taught it was "a ransom paid to Satan". Instead it is thought that this was his illustration (pastoral), while others point out that "Satan" was often used in early church writing as a personalization of sin and death.
Either way, by the 10th century it had become viewed as a ransom to Satan. This is why Abselm developed the Satisfaction theory (which is centered on restoring to God the honor robbed Him by Adam).
Aquinas revised Satisfaction theory to what some call Substitution Theory. He shifted the focus from restoring honor to restoring justice via merit.
Calvin revised Aquinas' theory. Where Aquinas defended Jesus suffering justly by explaining this is satisfactory punishment (as opposed to penal), by the time Calvin came along penal substitution was considered within just means (the focus became balancing justice).
The reason that I question the OP is that those who hold Ransom theory point to Athanasius, not Origen. Athanasius sumed up Christ's work as ransoming us from the bondage of sin and death.
The order which the main ones appeared are:
1. Ransom Theory - Early 2nd century
2. Recapitulation - Late 2nd century
3. Satisfaction Theory - 11th century
4. 11th century as a counter position to Satisfaction Theory
5. Moral Influence Theory
6. Satisfaction Substitution (Aquinas) 13th century
7. Penal Substitution Theory 16th Century
"Christus vistor" is not a theory but a theme (the purpose of Christ's death).
Basically, Jesus suffered and died under the "powers of sin and death" and God's vindication ("raising Him from the dead", "giving Him a name above every name") was God's judgment. Jesus "became a life-giving Spirit", "although we die yet shall we live". This removed the "sting" from death. It is not only Christ's victory over sin and death, over evil, but it is a victory we share in Him.
This theme is present in Ransom Theory, Recapitulation, and the Moral Influence Theory.
Each of these theories focus on one aspect of the Atonement (Christ ransoming us, Christ as the Second Adam succeeding where Adam fell, and as a moral example). The theme is Christ suffering under the powers of evil and gaining a victory that we share (as He is freed from the bondage of sin and death, so shall we in Him).
The other three, Satisfaction Theory, Satisfaction/ Substitution, and Penal Substitution stand one in contrast to one another and to traditional Chriatianity.
When the worldview shifted Christ restoring honor to God no longer resonated snd Anselm revised the theory. He shifted it to justice.
Calvin revised Aquinas' theory as his judicial philosophy focused on justice itself and viewed a crime as a debt that justice had to satisfy.
Of the theories listed Aquinas' theory is the most popular today.
Penal Substitution Theory is a relatively new concept.
The earliest way if viewing the Atonement is Christ suffering and dying under the powers of evil and gaining victory over sin and death through the just vindication of God.
The oldest actual Atonement Theory is Ransom Theory.
The most traditional position is Christ suffering and dying under the powers of evil and gaining victory, with a focus of Christ redeeming men from the bondage of sin and death (sharing that victory).
www.crossway.org
