A Complete Guide to Understanding the Dispensationalism Controversy

by Kerry Trahan

Publisher:

Disciple of Jesus Ministries

, 2007

Overview

Have you ever wondered what to think about dispensationalism? Kerry Trahan’s A Complete Guide to Understanding the Dispensationalism Controversy is a highly comprehensive and accessible resource that will bring both sides of this controversial theory to light. Perfect for anybody seeking a greater understanding of the topic of dispensationalism, this book thoroughly details the history, tenets, and opposing viewpoints surrounding this form of biblical interpretation. Trahan explores the definition of the term and the interpretation of the theory from a strong biblical standpoint, sharing with us his great wealth of knowledge based on years of studying the topic.

Broken down into three parts, Trahan's dissertation first discusses the meaning behind the term “dispensationalism,” pulling definitons and quotes from many respected theologians such as Charles Ryrie, C. I. Scofield, and H. A. Ironside. Section two details Charles Ryrie’s three “sine qua non,” or essentials, of dispensationalism, and the third section of this informative book explains some secondary theological issues, most of which relate to eschatology.

This guide to dispensationalism, published in 2007, is an excellent resource for those wanting to learn more about all aspects of the topic. With Logos Bible Software, Trahan's writings are more accessible than ever. You can instantly view Scripture references contained in A Complete Guide to Understanding the Dispensationalism Controversy by hovering your mouse over them, and searching becomes an easy one-click breeze.

Key Features

• Careful and detailed analysis of the theory of dispensationalism
• Extensive appendix of the biblical usage of the word “law” and its variations
• Rich with scriptural references and quotes from an array of esteemed theologians

Contents

Top Highlights

“Is God’s primary purpose in Scripture soteriological (pertaining to salvation) as covenant theologians claim?… Or is it the glory of God, as dispensationalists claim?” (Page 67)

“Have you ever wondered why our Lord, at one point in time, forbade the disciples to take His message to the Gentiles (Mat 10:5–10), and then later commanded that same group of disciples to go to the Gentiles (Mat 28:19–20)? Even if no other dilemma be cited, this one alone forces the reader to: (1) resort to the spiritualization of the plain text of Scripture, or (2) recognize dispensational distinctions.” (Page 13)

“To summarize what has been stated thus far: the primary distinction between covenant theology and dispensationalism (based on the manner in which each interprets the Bible) has to do with how each view the divisions of God’s dealings with mankind. Dispensationalists see seven distinct divisions (as previously described) while covenant theologians see only two: (1) Law (that period prior to Adam’s sin) and (2) Grace (this period since Adam’s sin). These differences have an enormous bearing on how many other doctrines of the Bible are interpreted and viewed theologically.” (Page 33)

“Although spiritually kindred in relationship, many doctrinal issues (such as views concerning Israel and the Church, the millennium, the rapture, etc.) set these two opposing theological camps apart. The distinctions result primarily from the manner in which each interprets the Bible: the covenant theologian interprets the Scriptures allegorically, while dispensationalists on the other hand, employ the consistent literal method of interpretation. This results in fundamental differences between these two systems at the foundational level.” (Page 31)

Praise for the Print Edition

It is a valuable book, very thorough research. Would be best as a teaching tool for pastors, college and seminary students. A good pastor's book.

—Pastor David Brown, PhD

Kerry Trahan has brought clarity to a complex and controversial subject with his Complete Guide to Understanding the Dispensationalism Controversy. This book is an excellent resource guide for those who want to go deep into the history of dispensationalism, its terms and definitions, its theological perspectives and the opposing views of non-dispensationalists.

—Evangelist Mike Gendron

Kerry Trahan does a masterful job of reviving dispensational knowledge in an easy to understand way. I strongly recommend A Complete Guide to Understanding the Dispensationalism Controversy to anyone who wants to read and understand the history and prophecies of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation.

—Pastor Kevin Lea

Product Details

• Title: A Complete Guide to Understanding the Dispensationalism Controversy
• Author: Kerry Trahan
• Publisher: Disciple of Jesus Ministries, Inc.
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 344

About Kerry Trahan

Kerry Trahan is a contemporary theologian, writer, and pastor of A Church of Jesus in Port Neches, TX. He received his PhD at Louisiana Baptist University in 2005, then his ThD at Louisiana Theological Seminary in 2007.