Refuting the claim that dispensational thought is a nineteenth century innovation, this book offers a much needed corrective on an age-old misconception. In Discovering Dispensationalism, a dozen leading scholars trace the development of dispensational thought from the world of the New Testament through the present day. Throughout the volume distinct milestones that emerged over two millennia are connected, reflecting what would later become known as dispensationalism. The historical significance of this biblical-theological framework demonstrates that dispensationalism, far from being “dead” or “fallen,” continues to shape Christian thought in the twenty-first century. 

“This analysis of the various periods of church history reveals three important truths about the theological movement called dispensationalism. First, it shows that elements of later dispensational teaching occurred in nearly every period before J. N. Darby, with his distinction between the heavenly and the earthly people of God, produced its most influential form in the nineteenth century. Secondly, it explains that the movement was far from monolithic, with commentators of contrasting schools of thought postulating different dispensations. And thirdly it stresses that dispensationalism was not only a version of apocalyptic speculation but was deeply grounded in a literal hermeneutic of Scripture. The twelve authors of the chapters, not all of whom are themselves dispensationalists, have done a service to the church and the academy by producing a resource which, though sympathetic, is not polemical.”

– David Bebbington, PhD
Emeritus Professor of History, University of Stirling