The Spread of Dispensationalism
Summary:
Four key men spread the doctrine of dispensationalism in 19th-century North America.
Scholars and ministers spread dispensationalism across America in the 19th century. John Nelson Darby, “the father of dispensationalism,” was a founder of the Plymouth Brethren movement. His most influential contribution was his promotion of dispensationalism and the secret rapture.
Darby, born in London, made seven trips to North America between 1862 and 1877, throughout and after the Civil War. Many saw his message of Christ’s return as hope in a dark world. James Inglis published Darby’s ideas in his journal Waymarks in the Wilderness. Brothers Paul and Timothy Loizeaux, part of the Plymouth Brethren movement in the United States, also helped to distribute Darby’s interpretations of Scripture.
Darby greatly influenced a Presbyterian minister named Dr. James H. Brookes, who developed the Niagara Bible Conference that met every summer from 1875 to 1897. The Bible studies held there were devoured by many eager young students—one of which was Cyrus Ingerson Scofield. Even to this day, Scofield is famous for his Scofield Reference Bible, which has dispensationalist footnotes.
Scofield established the Philadelphia School of the Bible. Dr. Lewis Sperry Chafer, a staff member, went on to become founder of Dallas Theological Seminary. He taught decades of theological students and pastors the dispensational point of view.
One of those students was Hal Lindsey. His books, including The Late Great Planet Earth, declare that the physical nation of Israel is still God’s chosen people and the key to Bible prophecy.
These dispensational ideas have strongly influenced American foreign policy. They have lead to support for Israel largely based on the supposed blessing that such support will bring.
The information in this section is derived from James M. Efird, Left Behind? What the Bible Really Says about the End Times (Smyth & Helwys Publishing, 2006). Preview this book online.
Science Deceptions
Media Deceptions
Reformation
Spiritual Deceptions
Health Deceptions
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Agency of Evil Spirits Snares of Satan
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Liberty of Conscience Threatened
The Impending Conflict
The Scriptures a Safeguard The Final Warning
The Time of Trouble God's People Delivered
Desolation of the Earth The Controversy Ended
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