Journal: Grace Theological Journal
Volume: GTJ 10:2 (Fall 1989)
Article: Response to "Understanding Dispensationalists", by Vern S. Poythress
Author: Robert L. Saucy

GTJ 10:2 (Fall 89) p. 139

Response to Understanding Dispensationalists,
by Vern S. Poythress

Robert L. Saucy

We would like to begin by expressing our appreciation for the spirit evident throughout Dr. Poythress’ work. While he definitely seeks to call in question the crucial tenets of dispensationalism, he does so with a gentle irenic spirit inviting dialogue rather than defensive rebuff. It is no doubt this spirit which gives one the impression that the work is a genuine attempt to understand dispensationalism and to present it fairly. We recognize the problems inherent in seeking to present a portrait of dispensationalism today in light of the considerable diversity which has developed over the past years. If there is any weakness in the portrayal of dispensationalism in the work, it is a tendency at times to deal with some issues that in our mind do not seem to be prevalent among most contemporary dispensationalists including those more traditionally oriented. For example, if I am not mistaken, both Ryrie and Pentecost, although affirming an eternal distinction between Israel and the church do not include a final earthly and heavenly destiny in that distinction. It is questionable therefore that they should be included in the category of D-theologians whose primary commonality is stated to be “parallel-but-separate roles and destinies of Israel and the church” (p. 9).

One might also wonder about some of the dimensions described as social forces at work among dispensationalists. For example, we would have appreciated more evidence that it is in response to the exactness of science that dispensationalists seek a greater precision in biblical language (pp. 57-58). At least as good a case can be made that the more literal approach was in reaction to the spiritualizing of much of prophecy in connection with a prevalent post-millennialism in the early part of the 19th century (cL G. E. Ladd, The Blessed Hope [Eerdmans, 1956], p. 43). But these are relatively minor questions of an overall fair presentation.

GTJ 10:2 (Fall 89) p. 140

I. Points of Agreement

Before dealing specifically with the points of contention, we would like to give some indication of where we are coming from by noting some of the major areas included in the work with which we are in substantial agreement.

First, we agree that there is finally one people of God. Believing Jews and Gentiles are permanently united as “one new Man” in Christ (Eph 2:15). This is in accord with the OT prophecies that pictured the salvation of God going to the Gentiles as well as to Israel in the messianic era. In saying that there is one people of God, we are talking about a spiritual unity. This oneness, according ...