The Future

Lesson FUT002 – Small Group Bible Study on Dispensationalism

Look up the following Scriptures. When reading these verses ask yourself the following questions:

1. Who is talking/writing?
2. Who is the audience?
3. What do these verses have to say about our main topic?

Read the following article that relates to our topical Bible study.

What is Dispensationalism?
By Thomas Ice

Many evangelicals and liberals believe that dispensationalism is either downright heresy or close to it. In fact, few years ago, while pastor of a church, a lady in my congregation ask me, "Why is dispensationalism bad?" I asked what provoked her question. She had recently talked to a woman who knew that our church was dispensational. The women spoke harshly against dispensationalism to my congregate and warned her that it was unscriptural and no biblically responsible Christian should be involved in such heresy. For many, dispensationalism is a Christian cuss word! The lady in my church ask: "What is dispensationalism?" That is a good question. I hope to answer it in this article. Read Article

As you read the article, highlight the sentences, statements or paragraphs that you find most profound, confusing, revolutionary, fundamental or inspiring.  Mark each highlight with the reason you choose it.  Use the corresponding word or letter. P = Profound , C = Confusing , R = Revolutionary , F = Fundamental , I = Inspiring.

After you have done this for the entire article, force yourself to narrow your favorite sentences, statements or paragraphs down to your top 5. Then top 3. Then 1. This will prepare you for in-depth group discussion.

Not only will this technique improve overall reading comprehension, but will act as a discussion outline for your small group.  This method also provides a jump start if you choose to do a written summary of the article.

Answer the following questions after reading the article above:

1. Do you agree with the basic premise of the article? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What was your favorite verse quoted in the article and why?
   
   
   
3. List five keywords that would describe what this article is about.
   
   
   
4. In what ways might reading the Bible from a non-dispensational perspective affect your interpretations of other important doctrines?
   
   
   
5. Do you think the subject of Dispensations is widely understood among Christians today? Elaborate.
   
   
   
6. In what ways does this article resonate with you personally?