Term

Dispensationalism (KTC)

An evangelical system interpreting the Bible through literal hermeneutics, distinguishing between Israel and the Church, and dividing history into administrative 'dispensations.' It emphasizes a pre-tribulation rapture and the future restoration of national Israel.

Filed underHermeneuticsCovenant Theology

Definition

An evangelical theological system that interprets the Bible through literal hermeneutics, sharply distinguishing between Israel and the Church, and dividing history into distinct administrative 'dispensations' of God's testing of humanity. It emphasizes a pre-tribulation rapture, premillennialism, and the future restoration of national Israel.

Connections

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Broader than: Classic DispensationalismTerm
Mediatorial KingdomTerm
Traditional/Revised DispensationalismTerm
Includes: DispensationTerm
Spiritual KingdomTerm
Universal KingdomTerm

Sources

1.Keith Mathison “Dispensationalism.” Ligonier MinistriesLinkOriginal citation: Keith Mathison, "Dispensationalism," Ligonier Ministries, accessed February 3, 2026, https://learn.ligonier.org/guides/dispensationalism

Last revised August 14, 2026