The "Dispensational Truth" chart is not intended to be a complete source of information on Dispensational truth! It is intended to be a handout or an overhead projection that can be used as part of a sermon on the topic of Dispensationalism.

The definition of Dispensationalism is the standard Scofield one. Some would raise the concern about this definition being rooted too much in the concept of "time" and not enough in the concept of a Dispensation being an "economy" in the outworking of God's purpose for his household. I am aware of this concern and share it, but I felt this definition was a good starting point. Again, the purpose of the chart is not to present the final word on Dispensationalism, but to present a framework that can be modified or enhanced during the course of a sermon.

To the right of the definition is a triangle, demonstrating that Dispensationalism, Premillennialism and Pretribulationalism form a single integrated system of theology. While it is possible to be a Premillennialist without being a Pretribulationalist, and while it is possible to be Premillennial and Pretribulational without being Dispensational, the three theological concepts fit together quite nicely into a single integrated theological concept.

The seven boxes describe the standard seven dispensations as described by Scofield. You may differ on the number of dispensations, what the dispensations are and when the dispensation of "Grace" began.

The arrows below the boxes are designed to defend again two of the most common objections against Dispensationalism. We often hear the unfounded complaint that "Dispensationalism teaches different methods of salvation in different dispensations", and we often hear the ridulous assertion that the whole system of Dispensationalism is to be rejected because some refer to a Dispensation of Grace. The arrows are designed to show that salvation by grace and the grace of God has been present in all dispensations. The intelligent Bible teacher will wish to point out that Dispensationalism in fact, does not concern itself with salvation, but rather with pointing out man's inability to please God regardless of what God expects.

The two Scriptures quoted below are from the King James Bible. They are the two Scripture that indicate quite unambiguously that there is some concept of a "dispensation" that the Bible student must be aware of. The presence of this word in the King James Bible does not vindicate the whole system of Dispensational theology, but does indicate that there is a concept here that needs some explanation! The wise Bible teacher will study these passage intensely, doing word studies on the word "dispensation".

There are five boxes at the bottom of the chart. The boxes at the top left and top right show what Dispensationalism is characterized by, and what a stewardship is characterized by. Dispensationalism is characterized by three main points. First, more than any other system of theology, it is developed from a consistently literal interpretation of the Bible. Second, Dispensationalism maintains a distinction between the Church and Israel. Thirdly, Dispensationalism sees God's highest purpose as giving glory to himself, while "Covenant" theology sees God's highest purpose as saving mankind.

The box at the top right is similar to the one at the top left, in that it provides three points that are characteristic of a stewardship.

The boxes at the bottom left and bottom right can be used to trace the development of dispensational thought. The names of these men are not included to add weight to the doctrine, because it is either Biblical or it isn't. However, intelligent use of these points can be an effective argument to one of the most common complaints against Dispensationalism (i.e. that it is a new doctrine).  We should note that the so called "church fathers" mentioned at the bottom right were not out and out Dispensationalists as we would understand the term, but rather, they each discussed the need to distinguish between the various major divisions in Scripture or ages in God's program.

The large box in the middle discusses some reasons why this doctrine is important. I firmly believe that a preacher must take the time to show his listeners why the doctrines they have been taught are practical. This is especially true with a doctrine as complex as Dispensationalism.

It is my hope that this chart will be a source of blessing to many, as God's people strive to learn more about Dispensational Truth.