Michael Williams traces the development of dispensationalism as a cultural and theological critique on 19th century America and England and its influence on the current instinctive spiritual beliefs of America. He analyses the internal logic that dispensationalists attempt to apply to their theology and the notable changes that are taking place within it today.
An informative and well-sourced critique of Classical Dispensationalism (Scofield and Chafer, specifically), from a Reformed /Covenant perspective.
At times overly critical, in my opinion. The author throws around accusations of Gnosticism and Marcionism too casually. Also, this book is likely to be used by today’s Reformed to inform themselves about dispensationalism, but they will only be learning about the earlier historical form thereof. One should not come to a conclusion about the system as it is today, based on its historical founders only. It would not be fair to evaluate Reformed theology by only studying Hodge and Warfield.
Very misleading subtitle, as it focuses on only two Dispensational theologians and is more of a theological critique than a history. Useful because it takes aim at the theological outworking of Dispensational thought rather than simply critiquing it Biblically.
Outstanding. Thoughtful, well-researched, and fairly irenic given the nature of it. Lots of direct citations from Chafer, Scofield, and Darby while offering sound refutations. Not only does this inform the reader of the teachings of dispensationalism but offers biblical refutations. More importantly, it paints a better picture of the world, the church, redemption, and God Himself than dispensationalism does. This book is sadly out of print but isn't too hard to locate and very worth the time.