Dispensationalism

Dispensationalism is a Christian theological framework for interpreting the Christian Bible which maintains that history is divided into multiple ages called dispensations in which God interacts with his chosen people in different ways. It is often distinguished from covenant theology, the traditional Reformed view of reading the Bible. These are two competing frameworks of biblical theology that attempt to explain overall continuity in the Bible. The coining of the term “dispensationalism” has been attributed to Philip Mauro, a critic of the system’s teachings, in his 1928 book The Gospel of the Kingdom.

Dispensationalists use a literal interpretation of the Bible and believe that divine revelation unfolds throughout its narrative. They believe that there is a distinction between Israel and the Church, and that Christians are not bound by Mosaic law. They maintain beliefs in premillennialism, Christian Zionism, and a rapture of Christians before the expected Second Coming of Jesus, who Christians believe to be the Messiah, generally before the so-called Great Tribulation.

Dispensationalism was systematized and promoted by John Nelson Darby and the Plymouth Brethren in the mid-19th century. It began its spread in the United States during the late 19th century through the efforts of evangelists such as James Inglis, James Hall Brookes and Dwight L. Moody, the programs of the Niagara Bible Conference, and the establishment of Bible institutes. With the dawn of the 20th century, C. I. Scofield introduced the Scofield Reference Bible, which crystallized dispensationalism in the United States.

Dispensationalism has become popular within American evangelicalism. In addition to the Plymouth Brethren, it is commonly found in nondenominational Bible churches, as well as among Baptist, Pentecostal, and Charismatic groups. Protestant denominations that embrace covenant theology, such as the Reformed churches, tend to reject dispensationalism.

wikipedia/en/Dispensationalism

Dispensationalism is a Protestant evangelical theology that views biblical history as structured into different dispensations or ages, with God interacting differently with humanity in each. Key tenets include a sharp distinction between Israel and the church and a literal interpretation of Scripture, especially concerning biblical covenants and end-times prophecy. It proposes that God has separate plans and purposes for the nation of Israel and the Church, with the latter seen as a present-day, primarily Gentile entity. Core Principles of Dispensationalism

• Literal Interpretation: A commitment to interpreting the Bible, particularly prophecy, in a straightforward, literal way.
• Dispensations: The belief that the Bible outlines several distinct periods or “dispensations” (often seven) where God’s administration and relationship with mankind differ.
• Distinction Between Israel and the Church: God has two distinct peoples, the nation of Israel and the Church, with distinct roles in His overall program.
• Promises to Israel: Old Testament promises made to Israel regarding a physical kingdom, land, and blessings are not transferred to the Church but will be ultimately fulfilled in a future millennial kingdom centered in Jerusalem.

Stages of Dispensationalism

Dispensationalism is not a monolithic system and has evolved over time. Three main forms include:

• Classical/Traditional Dispensationalism: Associated with early figures like John Nelson Darby and C.I. Scofield.
• Revised/Modified Dispensationalism: A later form with prominent proponents like J. Dwight Pentecost and Charles Ryrie.
• Progressive Dispensationalism: A more recent development by scholars like Darrell Bock, which seeks to integrate themes and sees more continuity between the covenants.

Key Aspects of Dispensational Theology

• The Church Age: A “parenthesis” or interim period during which God’s focus shifts to the Church before returning to His focus on Israel.
• The Millennial Kingdom: A literal, 1,000-year kingdom on Earth, established by Christ after His physical return.
• End-Time Prophecy: A strong interest in interpreting current events in light of end-times prophecies and a two-stage return of Christ.