How many dispensations are described in the Bible?

Dispensationalism is a theological framework for understanding the Bible that divides history into distinct periods or "dispensations" in which God interacts with humanity in different ways. While the Bible itself does not explicitly outline a specific number of dispensations, dispensational theologians have identified several key periods based on their interpretation of Scripture. The most widely accepted form of dispensationalism identifies seven dispensations, though there are variations in the number and names of these periods depending on the theologian or tradition.

To understand dispensationalism, it's important to grasp the concept of a "dispensation." A dispensation is essentially an administration or stewardship period in which God reveals His will and expects a particular response from humanity. Each dispensation ends in a form of judgment, demonstrating humanity's failure to meet God's expectations, leading to a new dispensation.

The Seven Dispensations

1. Innocence (Genesis 1:28-3:6) The first dispensation begins with the creation of Adam and Eve and extends until their fall into sin. During this period, humanity lived in a state of innocence in the Garden of Eden. God's expectations were straightforward: Adam and Eve were to be fruitful and multiply, have dominion over the earth, and abstain from eating from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (Genesis 2:16-17). The fall of humanity through disobedience marked the end of this dispensation and led to their expulsion from Eden (Genesis 3:23-24).

2. Conscience (Genesis 3:7-8:14) Following the fall, humanity entered into a new dispensation characterized by a heightened awareness of good and evil. This period extends from the expulsion from Eden to the Great Flood. During this time, people were expected to live according to their conscience, guided by an internal sense of right and wrong. However, humanity's increasing wickedness, as seen in the story of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4) and the general corruption described in Genesis 6:5-6, led to God's judgment through the flood.

3. Human Government (Genesis 8:15-11:9) After the flood, God established a new dispensation with Noah and his descendants. This period is marked by the institution of human government and the covenant God made with Noah, including the command to multiply and fill the earth (Genesis 9:1). God also introduced the principle of capital punishment for murder (Genesis 9:6). The dispersion at the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) marks the end of this dispensation, as humanity once again failed to follow God's directive to spread out and fill the earth.

4. Promise (Genesis 12:1-Exodus 19:25) The dispensation of promise begins with God's call to Abraham and His covenant with him (Genesis 12:1-3). During this period, God's relationship with humanity is primarily focused on Abraham and his descendants, the Israelites. The promises made to Abraham, including the promise of land, descendants, and blessing, are central to this dispensation. The period extends to the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. Despite God's promises and guidance, the Israelites often faltered in their faith and obedience, as seen in their sojourn in Egypt and their struggles in the wilderness.

5. Law (Exodus 20:1-Acts 2:4) The dispensation of law begins with the giving of the Mosaic Law at Mount Sinai and extends to the day of Pentecost. During this period, God's expectations are codified in the Law, which includes moral, ceremonial, and civil regulations. The Law was given to guide Israel in their relationship with God and with one another (Exodus 20:1-17). However, the history of Israel during this period is marked by cycles of obedience and rebellion, leading to various forms of divine judgment, including the Babylonian exile. The coming of Jesus Christ and His fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17) marks the transition to the next dispensation.

6. Grace (Acts 2:4-Revelation 20:3) The dispensation of grace, also known as the Church Age, begins with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and continues to the second coming of Christ. This period is characterized by the spread of the Gospel and the formation of the Church, composed of both Jews and Gentiles who believe in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:14-16). Salvation during this dispensation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). The New Testament epistles provide guidance for the Church in this era. Despite the grace offered, humanity continues to struggle with sin, as evidenced by various challenges and apostasies within the Church.

7. Millennium (Revelation 20:4-6) The final dispensation is the Millennial Kingdom, a future period of 1,000 years during which Christ will reign on earth. This period follows the second coming of Christ and the binding of Satan (Revelation 20:1-3). During the Millennium, God's promises to Israel will be fulfilled, and there will be a time of unprecedented peace and righteousness (Isaiah 11:6-9). However, even in this ideal environment, not all will submit to Christ, and a final rebellion will occur at the end of the Millennium, leading to the final judgment (Revelation 20:7-10).

Scriptural Basis and Interpretation

Dispensationalism relies heavily on a literal interpretation of Scripture, particularly prophecy. Key passages that dispensationalists use to support their framework include:

• Genesis 1-3: The creation and fall narratives establish the first dispensation.
• Genesis 9:1-17: God's covenant with Noah introduces the dispensation of human government.
• Genesis 12:1-3: The call of Abraham marks the beginning of the dispensation of promise.
• Exodus 19-20: The giving of the Law at Sinai initiates the dispensation of law.
• Acts 2: The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost begins the dispensation of grace.
• Revelation 20: The description of the Millennial Kingdom outlines the final dispensation.

Variations and Criticisms

While the seven-dispensation model is the most widely accepted, there are variations. Some dispensationalists propose different numbers of dispensations, ranging from three to eight. Others may use different names or emphasize different aspects of each period.

Dispensationalism has also faced criticism, particularly from proponents of Covenant Theology, which emphasizes the unity of God's redemptive plan throughout history rather than distinct periods. Critics argue that dispensationalism can lead to a fragmented understanding of Scripture and an overemphasis on eschatology (the study of end times).

However, dispensationalism has been influential, particularly in evangelical circles, and has shaped the interpretation and teaching of many prominent pastors, theologians, and institutions.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not explicitly enumerate dispensations, the dispensational framework provides a way of understanding God's progressive revelation and interaction with humanity throughout history. By identifying distinct periods in which God administers His will in different ways, dispensationalism helps to highlight the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, from creation to the final judgment. Whether one adheres strictly to dispensationalism or prefers a different theological framework, the study of these periods can enrich our understanding of Scripture and God's relationship with humanity.