The Israel-Hamas Conflict: Dispensational or Covenant? - The PursueGOD Truth Podcast

In this episode, Bryan and John discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict from a theological perspective. They explore the concepts of dispensationalism and covenant theology and how they shape the understanding of the conflict. They dive into the promises made to Israel in Genesis 12 and the conditions attached to those promises. They emphasize the importance of praying for both Israel and the Palestinians, and the need for all people, including Jews, to accept Jesus as their Savior. The episode sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the conflict's history and current situation in the next episode.

Takeaways:

• Understanding the Israel-Hamas conflict requires a theological perspective.
• Dispensationalism emphasizes a unique plan for Israel and sees the promises made to Israel in the Bible as literal and still applicable.
• Covenant theology views God's relationship with humanity through covenants and emphasizes the continuity between the Old and New Testaments.
• Believing in Jesus is essential for salvation, and Christians should pray for the salvation of all people involved in the conflict.
• Praying for peace and the spread of the gospel in the region is crucial for Christians.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Purpose

01:01 Understanding the Israel-Hamas Conflict Theologically

04:24 Dispensationalism: A Unique Plan for Israel

06:23 Genesis 12: The Promised Land and Dispensationalism

19:53 Covenant Theology: God's Relationship with Humanity

27:37 The Importance of Believing in Jesus for Salvation

29:44 Praying for Israel and the Palestinians

41:23 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode

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The dispensational view is a theological framework that divides history into distinct periods, or "dispensations," during which God interacts with humanity in different ways. In the context of Israel, dispensationalism often emphasizes a unique plan for the nation of Israel separate from the Church. It suggests that God has distinct purposes for Israel and the Church and that these purposes unfold in different dispensations.

According to dispensationalism, God made specific promises to Israel in the Old Testament, such as land promises, which are yet to be fulfilled. Proponents believe in a future period (often associated with a literal interpretation of certain biblical prophecies) where God will fulfill these promises to Israel. This perspective contrasts with covenant theology, which sees a more unified and spiritual continuity between Israel and the Church.

Dispensationalists often highlight key biblical passages to support their views. Some foundational elements include:

1. **Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12:1-3):** Dispensationalists emphasize God's promises to Abraham, particularly the land promise, suggesting a future fulfillment for Israel.

2. **Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:12-16):** The covenant with David is seen as a promise of an eternal kingdom, often interpreted as a future millennial reign of Christ on Earth.

3. **New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34):** While associated with the Church in most theological perspectives, dispensationalists may distinguish between the New Covenant's application to Israel and the Church, emphasizing a distinct future role for Israel.

4. **Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25):** Jesus' teachings on the end times, including signs and events, are frequently referenced to support dispensational views about a future tribulation period and Christ's return.

5. **Revelation (especially chapters 4-22):** Dispensationalists often interpret the events described in the book of Revelation, including the tribulation and millennial kingdom, as literal future events.

These scriptures, among others, are central to the dispensationalist understanding of God's plan for Israel and the Church, with a focus on a future restoration and fulfillment of God's promises to the nation of Israel. It's important to note that interpretations can vary, and not all Christians agree on the specifics of dispensationalism.

Key Figures in Dispensationalism

The dispensational view has its roots in the teachings of John Nelson Darby (1800–1882), an Irish Anglican clergyman who later became a prominent figure among the Plymouth Brethren, a Christian movement emphasizing the authority of the Bible and the imminent return of Christ. Darby developed and popularized dispensationalism during the 19th century.

Key features of Darby's dispensationalism include the division of history into distinct dispensations, each characterized by specific divine principles and responsibilities. Darby's ideas gained momentum in the United States through the influence of the Scofield Reference Bible, first published in 1909 by Cyrus I. Scofield. The Scofield Bible included notes and commentary aligning with dispensationalist theology, making these ideas accessible to a broader audience.

Another influential figure in the development of dispensationalism was Lewis Sperry Chafer (1871–1952), who founded Dallas Theological Seminary in 1924. The seminary became a major hub for dispensational teaching and contributed to the spread of this theological framework.

J. Dwight Pentecost (1915–2014) and Charles C. Ryrie (1925–2016) were notable dispensationalist scholars who also taught at Dallas Theological Seminary and furthered the development of dispensational theology through their writings and teachings.

Dispensationalism gained significant popularity in certain evangelical circles in the 20th century, particularly in the United States, where it became associated with certain strains of fundamentalism. However, it's essential to note that dispensationalism has evolved, and there are variations within this theological framework.

While Darby and Scofield were pivotal in shaping dispensationalism, its ideas have continued to develop and be refined by various scholars over the years. Today, there are different forms of dispensationalism, ranging from classical dispensationalism to progressive dispensationalism, each with its nuanced perspectives on the end times and the role of Israel in God's plan.

Covenant Theology

Covenant theology is a theological framework that views God's relationship with humanity through covenants, emphasizing continuity between the Old and New Testaments. Unlike dispensationalism, covenant theology sees a unified plan of redemption for both Israel and the Church. Here are key points and associated scripture references:

1. **Covenant of Works:** Covenant theologians often point to the idea of a covenant made with Adam in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15-17). This covenant represents God's expectations for obedience and the consequences of disobedience.

2. **Covenant of Grace:** This central covenant, according to covenant theology, is established after the fall, promising salvation through faith in Christ. Key passages include Genesis 3:15 (the promise of a seed), Jeremiah 31:31-34 (the promise of a new covenant), and Galatians 3:16 (linking the covenant to Christ).

3. **Abrahamic Covenant:** While dispensationalists focus on the land promise, covenant theologians emphasize the spiritual aspects of the Abrahamic Covenant. Galatians 3:7-9 and Romans 4:13 highlight the idea that Abraham is the father of all who have faith.

4. **Davidic Covenant:** Covenant theologians view the Davidic Covenant as finding its fulfillment in Christ, the ultimate King of David's lineage. This is referenced in passages like Acts 2:29-36 and Revelation 22:16.

5. **New Covenant:** Unlike the dispensationalist view, covenant theologians see the New Covenant as applying to both Jews and Gentiles within the unified body of Christ, the Church. Key passages include Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Hebrews 8:6-13.

In covenant theology, the emphasis is on the overarching theme of God's redemptive plan woven throughout history, with Christ as the focal point. The covenants are seen as different administrations of the one covenant of grace, leading to the salvation of God's people.

Key contributors to covenant theology

Covenant theology has been shaped by the insights and contributions of various theologians throughout history. Here are some key contributors:

1. **John Calvin (1509–1564):** Theologians often credit Calvin with laying the groundwork for covenant theology. While he did not develop a comprehensive covenant theology system, his theological ideas, especially those related to the covenant of grace, influenced later covenant theologians.

2. **Herman Witsius (1636–1708):** A Dutch Reformed theologian, Witsius made significant contributions to the development of covenant theology. His work "The Economy of the Covenants Between God and Man" is a notable systematic treatment of covenant theology.

3. **Johannes Cocceius (1603–1669):** Cocceius, a Dutch theologian, played a crucial role in advancing covenant theology. He emphasized a historical-redemptive understanding of the Bible, viewing Scripture as presenting a series of covenants that progressively unfold God's plan of redemption.

4. **Francis Turretin (1623–1687):** A Swiss-Italian Reformed theologian, Turretin contributed to the articulation of covenant theology in his systematic theology work "Institutes of Elenctic Theology." He explored various aspects of covenantal relationships between God and humanity.

5. **Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758):** Edwards, an American theologian and preacher, integrated covenant theology into his writings and sermons. His emphasis on God's covenantal faithfulness and the centrality of Christ in the covenant aligns with covenant theology principles.

6. **Geerhardus Vos (1862–1949):** A Dutch Reformed theologian who later became a professor at Princeton Theological Seminary, Vos contributed significantly to biblical theology and covenant theology. His writings, including "Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments," explored the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through covenants.

7. **Meredith G. Kline (1922–2007):** An influential Reformed theologian and Old Testament scholar, Kline made notable contributions to covenant theology. His work, particularly on the structure and significance of biblical covenants, has had a lasting impact on covenant theology discussions.

These theologians, among others, have played crucial roles in shaping and advancing covenant theology, providing insights into the biblical understanding of God's covenants and their significance in the overall redemptive plan.

What’s the difference?

Theological views that often stand in contrast to dispensationalism include various forms of covenant theology. Covenant theology provides an alternative framework for understanding the relationship between God and humanity, emphasizing a unified plan of redemption throughout history. While there are variations within covenant theology, it generally differs from dispensationalism in the following ways:

1. **Unified Covenant of Grace:** Covenant theology typically emphasizes a single, overarching covenant of grace that unfolds throughout both the Old and New Testaments. This perspective sees the various biblical covenants as different administrations of the same covenant rather than as separate dispensations.

2. **Continuity between Israel and the Church:** Covenant theology often emphasizes the spiritual continuity between Israel and the Church. It sees the Church as the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel rather than positing a future fulfillment for national Israel distinct from the Church.

3. **Less Emphasis on Future Events:** While both dispensationalism and covenant theology are concerned with eschatology (the study of end times), covenant theology may place less emphasis on a specific future period such as a seven-year tribulation or a literal millennial kingdom.

4. **Different Interpretation of Prophecy:** Covenant theology tends to interpret Old Testament prophecies, especially those concerning Israel, more spiritually or allegorically. It may see the fulfillment of these prophecies in the Church rather than in a future, distinct period for national Israel.

5. **Christ as the Center:** Covenant theology often places a strong emphasis on Christ as the central figure in God's plan of redemption. The covenants are seen as finding their fulfillment in Christ, the mediator of the covenant of grace.

It's important to note that within covenant theology, there are various perspectives and nuances. Additionally, some theological traditions, such as New Covenant Theology, offer alternative perspectives that share common ground with aspects of both dispensationalism and covenant theology. The diversity of views reflects the richness and complexity of theological discussions within Christianity.

Is this the same thing as reformed theology?

No, while there are connections between them, Reformed theology and covenant theology are not identical, and one does not necessarily imply the other. Let's clarify their relationship:

1. **Reformed Theology:**

   - **Overview:** Reformed theology is a broader theological tradition rooted in the principles of the Protestant Reformation, particularly associated with the teachings of John Calvin. It encompasses a comprehensive system of Christian doctrine that extends beyond specific views on covenants.

   - **Doctrinal Emphases:** Reformed theology emphasizes doctrines such as the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, the depravity of humanity, salvation by grace through faith, and the glory of God in all things.

2. **Covenant Theology:**

   - **Overview:** Covenant theology, on the other hand, is a specific theological framework for understanding the biblical narrative. It emphasizes the idea of covenants as central to God's relationship with humanity.

   - **Doctrinal Emphases:** Covenant theology sees a unified plan of redemption through covenants, often highlighting a covenant of works with Adam, a covenant of grace throughout history, and specific biblical covenants as administrations of this overarching covenant.

While many Reformed theologians adhere to covenant theology, not all Reformed Christians necessarily embrace it. Reformed theology is a broader umbrella that encompasses a diversity of perspectives on various theological issues, including different views on covenants. Some Reformed theologians may align more closely with a dispensational understanding of covenants or other theological frameworks.

In summary, covenant theology is a specific approach to understanding God's relationship with humanity, and it has connections to Reformed theology, but the two terms are not synonymous. Reformed theology encompasses a broader set of doctrinal emphases beyond the specific framework of covenant theology.