The concept of "dispensations" is a theological framework used in some Christian traditions to understand how God interacts with humanity at different points in history. It is important to note that not all Christian denominations subscribe to the concept of dispensationalism, and interpretations can vary. Here are seven commonly recognized dispensations:
Innocence:
This dispensation refers to the period in the Garden of Eden before Adam and Eve sinned. Humanity lived in a state of innocence and had direct fellowship with God.
Conscience:
Following the fall of Adam and Eve, this dispensation began. It extended from the expulsion from the Garden of Eden to the time of Noah's flood. During this period, people were guided by their conscience and personal understanding of right and wrong.
Human Government:
After the flood, God instituted the principle of human government. This dispensation focused on the establishment of civil authorities and the accountability of humans to these governing bodies.
Promise:
The dispensation of promise began with God's covenant with Abraham. During this period, God made specific promises to Abraham and his descendants, which included the land of Canaan and the promise of a great nation.
Law:
This dispensation corresponds with the giving of the Mosaic Law to the Israelites through Moses. It included the Ten Commandments and the numerous laws found in the Old Testament. The Israelites were expected to live according to these laws.
Grace:
With the coming of Jesus Christ, a new dispensation emerged. This is often referred to as the dispensation of grace, where salvation is offered through faith in Jesus rather than through adherence to the Mosaic Law. It is characterized by God's unmerited favor and forgiveness.
Millennium (Kingdom):
This is a future dispensation believed by some to be a literal 1,000-year reign of Christ on Earth, often associated with a period of peace and righteousness. It is a time when Christ's rule will be established.
It's important to note that not all Christian traditions accept the concept of dispensations, and even among those that do, there can be variations in how they define and interpret them. It's a framework that some find helpful in understanding the progression of God's dealings with humanity, while others interpret biblical history in different ways.