Understanding Dispensationalists

This book was instrumental in my leaving Dispensationalism. It is clearly presented and yet it does so in a very respectful manner. Most books pro or con are not very kind in their presentations. Mr. Poythress gives a reasoned approach concerning the core tenants of Dispensationalism (and there are only two---read his definition to find out: It surprised me too!). He then works through scripture in context to show how the writers of the New Testament do not look at the Old Testament the way in which Dispensationalists say that they do. Other reviews go into more detail on this, but let me say this: If you are in the Dispensational camp and would like to read a reasoned, but very kind review of your theological system, this is the book to read.

Being raised in classic Dispensationalism, this book was very helpful to engage ideas that I had presumed to be true without serious consideration.

Poythress provides a very thoughtful, honest look at dispensationalism from a reformed perspective. It is a short and easy to read book, and should be required for all dispensationalist (or anyone who has fallen in love the Left Behind series). Before I read this book I read Keith Mathison's book Dispensationalism: Rightly Dividing the Word of God? and couldn't help but think that he used huge over-generalizations and was more content to attack dispensationalist that open a dialog with them. Poythress avoids this trap with a fair interpretation. He points out that dispensationalism has a very high degree of internal coherence. While many reformed theologians point out the problems with dispensationalism, they do so from within the reformed mindset. As Poythress points out, dispensationalism makes complete sense when viewed within a dispensationalist theology. He does, however, point out why the dispensational theology is flawed and, ultimately, incorrect. Finally, he is careful to observe the distinction between classic and progressive dispensationalism. Since there are, as Poythress points out, many areas of agreement between reformed and progressive dispensationalists, he directs most of his critique towards to more radical classic dispensationalism.

There is no doubt that Dispensationalism is fatally flawed, but Poythress manages to avoid any nasty confontational language and attitudes towards those who hold this belief.Giving credence to his thesis is the fact that he spent time at Dallas Theological Seminary doing research for the book. In fact, he thanks the staff and students for their help! Given the often dogmatic and unloving attitudes that persist on both sides of the interpretive divide, Poythress is very effective and genuine in his style.Poythress has a number of arguments against Dispensationalism that can't all be summarised here. He does, however, point out that Dispensationalists often paint themselves into corners - they believe the Bible is the literal word of God (which Poythress believes as well), but are unable to cope with basic exegetical problems that contradict their theology. Rather than allow their theology to be changed by the Bible, they interpret the Bible via their theology - thus removing a central part of their belief system that the Bible determines theology.I challenge any Dispensationalist to read Poythress' work and still remain committed to their theology. But, like Poythress, I do this in the spirit of love, recognizing their faith and love of Christ.

Dr. Poythress has written an excellent book seeking dialogue over confrontation. Such is a rare approach between the two camps covered here! Steering clear of bombastic rhetoric and overdrawn characatures towards dispensationalists, this book actually stands a chance of being read by them and advancing discussion and understanding.