How can dispensations be valid if there is such dispute about them?

QUESTION:

Dispensational models have a tendency to falls apart. There is no agreement on the number of dispensations. What is the full set of proposed dispensations with the triggers for their start and end points?

ANSWER:

I can agree that there are arguments on dispensational models; some say this, and others say that, but that doesn't mean that there aren’t dispensations. I too disagree with some over-the-top models where too much is read into scripture and things are twisted to fit man’s imagination, but again, even though some of these models are out these, it does not disqualify the fact that the bible does clearly mention dispensations, (as per the verses below).

When God judged humanity and set up a covenant with Abraham, a new dispensation began. In other words, God would reveal Himself through a nation that He would raise up through Abraham. When God called Paul to go to the Gentiles, a new dispensation began where God would save Gentiles without the means of Israel. These are the only dispensations I write about, so I care less about if there are 5, or 7, or 12, or 20 dispensations! I recognize, as truth, the dispensation that started with Paul, and this is the one we need to acknowledge today as it must be divided from the one that came before it, according to 2Tim.2:15, in order to correctly understand the context of scripture.

• Eph.3:2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:
• Col.1:25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

You ask, “What is the full set of proposed dispensations with the triggers for their start and end points?”

Does it really matter! I can care less what one person says compared to another. If one person sees 7 dispensations and another divides the scripture into 20, that is their view, their prerogative and they will have to live with the consequences of their views. The two that matter to me, and are scripturally sound, are Prophecy (Israel/Law) and Mystery (Body of Christ/Grace).

In regard to their start and end, this can also be disputed because between each is typically a period of transition. Does it really matter how much time one person says versus another. The primary point is that one dispensation evolved into another, and if you read scripture on either end of it, it is clear to see that God works differently within each economy.

Human imagination has confused dispensations, but they exist, and the Bible is clear on the fact, and clear that we need to recognize them to know how God is dealing with humanity in that period. (See also Eph.1:10 and Eph.2:7-13).