Dr. David K. Bernard explains Dispensationalism, focusing on concepts like Dispensation of Grace, Church Age, and how they relate to Bible prophecy. He explores the origins and principles of dispensationalism, highlighting God's work throughout history. The discussion touches on God's grace in different ages, salvation through faith, and the relationship between Israel, the church, and God's plan.
Dispensationalism divides history into 'ages' with specific ways God interacts with humanity.
Salvation by grace through faith remains consistent in dispensationalism, emphasizing unity in God's plan.
Deep dives
Explanation of Dispensationalism
Dispensationalism is a teaching that interprets the Bible by dividing history into different 'ages' or dispensations. It gained popularity in the 20th century and is often associated with the Scofield Reference Bible. The doctrine typically identifies seven ages, each characterized by a specific way God interacts with humanity. These ages include innocence, conscience, human government, promise, law, grace or the church age, and the millennial kingdom to come.
Continuity in Salvation by Grace
Despite the different 'ages' in dispensationalism, the concept of salvation by grace through faith remains consistent throughout history. The teaching emphasizes that salvation has always been based on God's grace, not by works. Each age required faith and obedience to God's commands, with salvation ultimately being achieved through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The doctrine highlights the unity of God's plan for salvation across various dispensations.
Unity and Modified Approach in Interpretation
While recognizing distinctions between Israel and the church, a modified approach to dispensationalism emphasizes the unity of God's plan of salvation. This perspective expands on the promises given to Israel to include the New Testament church, with the belief that God's plan is more extensive than initially envisioned. It stresses the importance of obedient faith that transcends different dispensations, maintaining continuity in the definition of faith throughout history.
What do theological terms such as "church age" and "dispensation of grace" mean, and where did they originate? How do they fit within the framework of Bible prophecy and Oneness Pentecostal theology? In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains dispensational theology and its implications.
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