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There Really Is a Difference! A Comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology
This volume focuses on the differences between the Covenant and Dispensational systems of theology and examines their diverse approaches to such issues as: God’s ultimate purpose for history, God’s program for the nation of Israel, the significance of several key biblical covenants, the nature and beginning of the church, and the Christians’ relationship to the Mosaic Law and grace.
It explores the differences between the premillennial, amillennial, and postmillennial views of the Kingdom of God and presents an apology for dispensational-premillennial system of theology. The book is written in easy-to-understand, nontechnical language and has received favorable response form lay people, pastors, students, and reviewers.
225 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 1990
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 11, 2013
This was the first book I've read concerning the differences between Covenant and Dispensational theology. As such, my review is coming from someone who is just learning about this distinction and the way the distinction can be described by any particular author.
That said, I found this book to be extremely helpful. I had recently been having several conversations with a man who believes in Covenant theology and I myself am becoming more convinced of the validity of and scriptural basis for Dispensationalism. I found many of the topics that came up in my conversations to be represented in this book which argued convincingly for a Dispensationalism interpretation. That is clearly the perspective of the author but he also describes several of the views within Covenant theology.
Already leaning toward Dispensationalism and it being the perspective of the author of this book, I wasn't really surprised to become more convinced of the biblical nature of Dispensationalism. I rented this book from the library but I think I will purchase it as I think it will make a great reference book when I am wondering about any of the topics represented here or am having a conversation with someone of a different perspective.
This book, didactic in nature, is extremely well-organized and well-written and I think it draws logical conclusions from the Scriptures. Showers' formatting makes it very easy to follow his line of reasoning and he provides scriptural and historical evidence in abundance. The consistency of his method may feel repetitive but, to me, it fortified his conclusions and I appreciated being shown each argument by the same method as the previous one. Being so new to this discussion I thought a lot of this would be over my head but the subject matter really is dealt with in a very common, down to earth manner. The chapters are nicely divided and the book follows a logical progression of topics.
According to the conclusion of this book, the distinction between these two theologies matters in arguments of "how God fulfills His ultimate purpose for history, how prophetic passages of the Scriptures are to be interpreted, the nature and significance of some of the biblical covenants, God's program for the nation Israel, the nature of the Kingdom of God, the beginning, nature, and the distinctiveness of the Church, and the means through which the Christian is to live a godly life in this present world." I thought this book covered these topics quite nicely and it turned out to be a great place for me to start. I'm interested to read some of the books referenced by Showers' and possibly some books with a Covenant perspective just to see how someone with a Covenant perspective would approach this discussion. I recommend this book, especially to beginners in this discussion and for people looking for the scriptural passages that discuss these topics.
That said, I found this book to be extremely helpful. I had recently been having several conversations with a man who believes in Covenant theology and I myself am becoming more convinced of the validity of and scriptural basis for Dispensationalism. I found many of the topics that came up in my conversations to be represented in this book which argued convincingly for a Dispensationalism interpretation. That is clearly the perspective of the author but he also describes several of the views within Covenant theology.
Already leaning toward Dispensationalism and it being the perspective of the author of this book, I wasn't really surprised to become more convinced of the biblical nature of Dispensationalism. I rented this book from the library but I think I will purchase it as I think it will make a great reference book when I am wondering about any of the topics represented here or am having a conversation with someone of a different perspective.
This book, didactic in nature, is extremely well-organized and well-written and I think it draws logical conclusions from the Scriptures. Showers' formatting makes it very easy to follow his line of reasoning and he provides scriptural and historical evidence in abundance. The consistency of his method may feel repetitive but, to me, it fortified his conclusions and I appreciated being shown each argument by the same method as the previous one. Being so new to this discussion I thought a lot of this would be over my head but the subject matter really is dealt with in a very common, down to earth manner. The chapters are nicely divided and the book follows a logical progression of topics.
According to the conclusion of this book, the distinction between these two theologies matters in arguments of "how God fulfills His ultimate purpose for history, how prophetic passages of the Scriptures are to be interpreted, the nature and significance of some of the biblical covenants, God's program for the nation Israel, the nature of the Kingdom of God, the beginning, nature, and the distinctiveness of the Church, and the means through which the Christian is to live a godly life in this present world." I thought this book covered these topics quite nicely and it turned out to be a great place for me to start. I'm interested to read some of the books referenced by Showers' and possibly some books with a Covenant perspective just to see how someone with a Covenant perspective would approach this discussion. I recommend this book, especially to beginners in this discussion and for people looking for the scriptural passages that discuss these topics.
April 6, 2013
The book is loaded with straw man arguments; it's literally the worst book I've ever read. I felt badly for Showers, not angry, just sad--much like you would for any other blind man.
October 31, 2013
Book is full of straw man argumentation. Showers is a Dispensationalist. He does a very poor job at properly representing the other viewpoint and therefore loses credibility in presenting his own view. This book makes me sad for those who would base their understanding of theology on it.
February 9, 2024
This was a book that was assigned for a class at Bible college, and now, almost 20 years later, I returned to it for a refresher. With Reformed theology on the rise even in independent Baptist churches, I wanted to understand both sides a little bit better and shore up what I believe.
Showers’ treatment of covenant theology vs. dispensationalism follows a systematic course of argument.
Chapter 1 explains the necessity of a theology that fully exposits the Bible’s philosophy of history.
Chapters 2-3 are an examination and evaluation of CT
Chapters 4-5 are an introduction and examination of dispensational theology (DT)
Chapters 6-10 walk through the Biblical covenants and how each side interprets them
Chapters 11-13 deal with millennial views
Chapter 14 deals with the Kingdom of God
Chapter 15 deals with the beginning of the church
Chapter 16-17 show the relationship of the Christian to both the mosaic law and grace
Showers is clearly writing from and defending the DT interpretation of biblical history. His arguments are clearly laid out in each chapter (almost too well, digressing into multiple enumerated points which are not always easy to following with the formatting).
Some may argue that his presentation of CT is too broad and generic, but I believe it gives enough substance without wading into the weeds with minutiae.
Overall, Flowers grounds his arguments in Scripture (numerous passages are addressed in the book) and makes a good case for DT over CT.
My only complaint is that there are a few times when he seems to make assertions without clear Scriptural support — at least he does not show any in the text; and there are a few instances of some faulty logic in some of the conclusions he draws (namely in ch. 15 in the beginning and nature of the church).
However, it was a worthwhile read and I will undoubtedly use it as a quick reference in the future.
Showers’ treatment of covenant theology vs. dispensationalism follows a systematic course of argument.
Chapter 1 explains the necessity of a theology that fully exposits the Bible’s philosophy of history.
Chapters 2-3 are an examination and evaluation of CT
Chapters 4-5 are an introduction and examination of dispensational theology (DT)
Chapters 6-10 walk through the Biblical covenants and how each side interprets them
Chapters 11-13 deal with millennial views
Chapter 14 deals with the Kingdom of God
Chapter 15 deals with the beginning of the church
Chapter 16-17 show the relationship of the Christian to both the mosaic law and grace
Showers is clearly writing from and defending the DT interpretation of biblical history. His arguments are clearly laid out in each chapter (almost too well, digressing into multiple enumerated points which are not always easy to following with the formatting).
Some may argue that his presentation of CT is too broad and generic, but I believe it gives enough substance without wading into the weeds with minutiae.
Overall, Flowers grounds his arguments in Scripture (numerous passages are addressed in the book) and makes a good case for DT over CT.
My only complaint is that there are a few times when he seems to make assertions without clear Scriptural support — at least he does not show any in the text; and there are a few instances of some faulty logic in some of the conclusions he draws (namely in ch. 15 in the beginning and nature of the church).
However, it was a worthwhile read and I will undoubtedly use it as a quick reference in the future.
December 30, 2019
I was really disappointed with this book. Though I agree with many of the author’s conclusions, his arguments and methodology were so poor I often felt like he was ironically arguing for “the other side.” He constantly set his own definition of “the opposing view” and then set about to prove how wrong “they” are. The problem is that many times his definitions were non-representative and thus much of the book is spent attacking straw men. Presenting only certain scriptures and ignoring others, he tried to bolster his position by making the opposing view seem ludicrous. However, anyone who has truly studied both sides of the issues can easily see that Showers was not being fair nor honest in his presentation.
September 14, 2017
This book is a series of severely deformed (uninformed?) misrepresentations of Covenant Theology (especially for those who hold to Baptist Covenant Theology).
Its only usefulness is to serve those Dispensationalists who are comfortable with defending their system by creating then destroying straw-man arguments and blatantly (or ignorantly) falsifying what Covenantalists believe.
Its only usefulness is to serve those Dispensationalists who are comfortable with defending their system by creating then destroying straw-man arguments and blatantly (or ignorantly) falsifying what Covenantalists believe.
April 4, 2016
While the author may understand dispensational theology he does not represent Covenant Theology accurately.
August 16, 2020
A clear explanation of covenant and dispensational theology that was fairly easy to read.
February 13, 2015
A good and (I believe) fair review of both Covenant and Dispensational theology which fairly defines both and then proceeds to point out historical challenges in each, ending with the final conclusion that Dispensational theology is better and, as the title claims, makes a difference in how one sees many issues, such as the doctrine of the Kingdom. A good starting point for developing one's own view.
May 10, 2017
Not impressed
July 19, 2024
A DISPENSATIONALIST GIVES A CLEAR OVERVIEW OF THE TWO HERMENEUTICS
Dr. Renald Showers has also written books such as 'The Pre-Wrath Rapture View,' 'What on Earth Is God Doing?', 'Two Millennia of Church History,' etc. He begins by noting that "Bible-believing scholars have developed two distinct approaches" to the Bible's philosophy of history. "Those two systems are known as Covenant Theology and Dispensationalism." (Pg. 6)
He says that Covenant Theology "represents the whole of Scripture and history as being covered by two or three covenants." (Pg. 7) The two covenants are the Covenant of Works and the Covenant of Grace; the third covenant (added by some) is the Covenant of Redemption. (Pg. 8) In the latter, "the Father granted the Son to be Head and Redeemer of the elect. In return, the Son voluntarily agreed to take the place of those whom the Father had given Him." (Pg. 9)
Covenant theologians (such as Berkhof) admit that there is disagreement about who the second party of the Covenant of Grace is (e.g., the sinner; believers and their seed, etc.). (Pg. 11) They also disagree about when in history the Covenant of Grace was established. (Pg. 13) He notes that Covenant theology nullifies the distinction between the Abrahamic covenant and the Mosaic covenant, and asks, "But if these two covenants were essentially the same, why did Paul emphasize their distinctiveness in Galatians 3?" (Pg. 20)
He admits that Dispensational Theology "did not exist as a developed system of thought in the early Church." (Pg. 27) He emphasizes that the Abrahamic covenant was "established by God with Abraham and his PHYSICAL descendants." (Pg. 56) Later, he interprets the use of the present tense in Acts 3:25-26 to mean that the Abrahamic covenant was still in effect with that nation of Israel after its rejection of Christ, which means that "the covenant was unconditional." (Pg. 66)
This unconditional covenant (1) "guarantees Israel permanent existence as a nation," and "guarantees Israel permanent ownership of the promised land." (Pg. 69, 72) Thus, "the Abrahamic covenant indicates that Israel has the right to occupy its own land today." (Pg. 76) Concerning the New Covenant of Jeremiah 31-32, he asserts that "the fulfillment of the promises of the New Covenant would not depend upon the obedience of Israel." (Pg. 101)
Dr. Showers' book is a fair comparison and contrast of these two interpretative systems.
Dr. Renald Showers has also written books such as 'The Pre-Wrath Rapture View,' 'What on Earth Is God Doing?', 'Two Millennia of Church History,' etc. He begins by noting that "Bible-believing scholars have developed two distinct approaches" to the Bible's philosophy of history. "Those two systems are known as Covenant Theology and Dispensationalism." (Pg. 6)
He says that Covenant Theology "represents the whole of Scripture and history as being covered by two or three covenants." (Pg. 7) The two covenants are the Covenant of Works and the Covenant of Grace; the third covenant (added by some) is the Covenant of Redemption. (Pg. 8) In the latter, "the Father granted the Son to be Head and Redeemer of the elect. In return, the Son voluntarily agreed to take the place of those whom the Father had given Him." (Pg. 9)
Covenant theologians (such as Berkhof) admit that there is disagreement about who the second party of the Covenant of Grace is (e.g., the sinner; believers and their seed, etc.). (Pg. 11) They also disagree about when in history the Covenant of Grace was established. (Pg. 13) He notes that Covenant theology nullifies the distinction between the Abrahamic covenant and the Mosaic covenant, and asks, "But if these two covenants were essentially the same, why did Paul emphasize their distinctiveness in Galatians 3?" (Pg. 20)
He admits that Dispensational Theology "did not exist as a developed system of thought in the early Church." (Pg. 27) He emphasizes that the Abrahamic covenant was "established by God with Abraham and his PHYSICAL descendants." (Pg. 56) Later, he interprets the use of the present tense in Acts 3:25-26 to mean that the Abrahamic covenant was still in effect with that nation of Israel after its rejection of Christ, which means that "the covenant was unconditional." (Pg. 66)
This unconditional covenant (1) "guarantees Israel permanent existence as a nation," and "guarantees Israel permanent ownership of the promised land." (Pg. 69, 72) Thus, "the Abrahamic covenant indicates that Israel has the right to occupy its own land today." (Pg. 76) Concerning the New Covenant of Jeremiah 31-32, he asserts that "the fulfillment of the promises of the New Covenant would not depend upon the obedience of Israel." (Pg. 101)
Dr. Showers' book is a fair comparison and contrast of these two interpretative systems.
September 21, 2021
If the words "Covenant Theology" and "Dispensational Theology" are confusing to you, then "There Really is a Difference: A Comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology" by Renald E. Showers is for you. Professor Showers has a very organized mind and that organized mind leads to an organized book (perhaps too organized--more on that below). But before you read this book, understand that Dr. Showers is a Pre-Millenial/Pre-Tribulational Dispensationalist. That is not a bad thing, one just needs to be aware of his intellectual commitments so that one can fairly evaluate whether the author has his thumbs on the scale. And from my reading of the text, at times Dr. Showers has his thumbs on the scales.
The author attempts to set up the distinctions between Covenant Theology and Dispensational Theology . He does a very nice job summarizing complex material into organized and bite-size pieces. But at times I believe he undersells the Covenant Theology position in a way that serves to undermine the debate. This book could have been better if a Covenant Theologian would have presented the Covenant Theology position and Dr. Showers could then present his point of view. Another improvement would be for the author to eliminate the endless numerical convention that accompanied his logical arguments. Instead of helping his cause the numerical lists became confusing, especially when he made sub-points.
But there is real value in this book. Despite my criticism of his numerical convention, the approach reveals and organized, logical mind that is able to produce clear and, many times, convincing arguments. If you are new to this subject or, perhaps, a bit confused, then this book would be a great place to start. Happy reading!
The author attempts to set up the distinctions between Covenant Theology and Dispensational Theology . He does a very nice job summarizing complex material into organized and bite-size pieces. But at times I believe he undersells the Covenant Theology position in a way that serves to undermine the debate. This book could have been better if a Covenant Theologian would have presented the Covenant Theology position and Dr. Showers could then present his point of view. Another improvement would be for the author to eliminate the endless numerical convention that accompanied his logical arguments. Instead of helping his cause the numerical lists became confusing, especially when he made sub-points.
But there is real value in this book. Despite my criticism of his numerical convention, the approach reveals and organized, logical mind that is able to produce clear and, many times, convincing arguments. If you are new to this subject or, perhaps, a bit confused, then this book would be a great place to start. Happy reading!
July 25, 2022
Shower's presentation of Dispensationalism vs. Covenant theology is a basic review of both systems and their respective ramifications. It is an easy read for a student of theology.
Showers is very much dispensational in his theology, as am I. Therefore, though I wholeheartedly agree with his work, I question if a Covenant Theologian would feel his presentation of the covenant system is biased and inaccurate. Showerd should have prefaced this work with his own prologomena or presentation of his personal beliefs. As such, it ilicits a rebuttal from the covenant side.
I also found the book entirely too long. Beyond the first 80-100 pages (of 200+) exist a couple of highlighted ramifications of these systems. These sections are replete with lists on lists. At one point in Showers's discussion of premillennialism, he begins a list of 7+ biblical proofs, each with a subcategories containing lists. Showers overuses cardinal numeration to introduce his outline, confusing and annoying the reader. A visible outline of the chapter and a thorough edit would make these sections much easier to read and comprehend.
Showers is very much dispensational in his theology, as am I. Therefore, though I wholeheartedly agree with his work, I question if a Covenant Theologian would feel his presentation of the covenant system is biased and inaccurate. Showerd should have prefaced this work with his own prologomena or presentation of his personal beliefs. As such, it ilicits a rebuttal from the covenant side.
I also found the book entirely too long. Beyond the first 80-100 pages (of 200+) exist a couple of highlighted ramifications of these systems. These sections are replete with lists on lists. At one point in Showers's discussion of premillennialism, he begins a list of 7+ biblical proofs, each with a subcategories containing lists. Showers overuses cardinal numeration to introduce his outline, confusing and annoying the reader. A visible outline of the chapter and a thorough edit would make these sections much easier to read and comprehend.
November 8, 2022
This book was a great read, overall. The talking points of Dispensationalism were fantastic and well thought out. That said, I can only give this 4 stars and that is because of two reasons. First, the author provides the wrong timeframe of when the church officially started. While the time when the church started is a largely debated and controversial topic, the church most certainly started during Jesus’ earthly ministry. The Scriptures show that the Apostle’s were given the Spirit by Jesus after his Crucifixion. It is also clear that the church was started before Pentecost because the replacement of Judas Iscariot required an individual who had continued with Jesus and the Apostles beginning at the baptism of John. My personal opinion is that the church process started when Jesus called the twelve and the church was officially established when Jesus and the Apostles were baptized by John. The second reason I can only give this book 4 stars is because of the faulty teachings on the church. This book presents the common universal church doctrine, instead of the Biblical doctrine of the local church. Anyway, outside of those two issues, I thought the book was a good read.
August 5, 2020
Good not great. The book provides insight into the views of dispensation all theology. Though it purports to show a contrast between covenantal theology and Dispensational theology, I found that I disagreed with his description of covenantal theology beliefs. The book seems to search for a hill on which to die in battle against opposing views and I did not think the battle was necessary in a number of cases.
I did not enjoy the style in which the book was written though I appreciate the reasoning behind it seeing as it is meant to be a defense of Dispensationalism. What I appreciated most from it is that it gives some level of clarity about the views of the author and dispensationalism as a whole
I did not enjoy the style in which the book was written though I appreciate the reasoning behind it seeing as it is meant to be a defense of Dispensationalism. What I appreciated most from it is that it gives some level of clarity about the views of the author and dispensationalism as a whole
October 12, 2021
Clearly lays out the basics of the Dispensational understanding of Scripture. It also does an great job explaining Covenant Theology as understood by a Dispensationalist; unfortunately, as with most interactions with Covenant Theology by Dispensationalists, it gets Covenant Theology almost entirely wrong. Read it for the Dispensationalism, try something else for getting to understand Covenant Theology (maybe The Mystery of Christ: His Covenant and His Kingdom by Sam Renihan for a credobaptist Covenant Theology or Children of the Promise by Robert Booth for a paedobaptist take on it).
September 5, 2024
In this book Dr. Renald Showers writes an incredible book here about an elaborate, in-depth, and complicated concept of Covenant and Dispensational Theology. This book was extremely helpful for me to understand both sides clearly. Growing up in a Presbyterian Church I had an understanding of the Covenant side but not as much knowledge or experience with the Dispensational side. Dr. Showers does an excellent job presenting both sides fairly and biblically and allows for the reader to be able to wrestle through their own belief. If you are struggling which theological concept you believe in or just want to have more information and knowledge on the subject I would highly recommend this book.
February 26, 2021
This was a good book if you're interested in understanding a basic overview of the differences between Covenant Theology and Dispensational Theology. The first 2/3's of the book were pretty enjoyable but I think it got a little bogged down towards the end straying from initial goal of the book. It really was focused on in-depth descriptions of the Dispensational side and less about how Covenant Theology would answer the objections raised by Dispensationalists.
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August 25, 2019This was a well-thought out, gracious presentation of dispensationalism. As far as I can tell, there were multiple errors when discussing covenant theology, but I was reading this book more for the dispensational side of things, so it didn't bother me tremendously. The author wasn't contentious, and even though concerns were raised with covenant theology, they weren't made in a mean-spirited way.
February 11, 2026
The author's arguments were structured clearly, and the book gave me an introduction to the claims of dispensational theology. I sometimes found the logical claims not to follow as obviously from the scriptural text as was stated, but I did not rigorously study them. I want to read something from a covenant theologian for comparison.
March 28, 2023
I found the different points of view in this book a little hard to follow, including figuring out the author's own; however I really appreciated the information it offers and am glad I had it as a resource.
January 23, 2019
Information on dispensationalism was good but did not adequately give covenant theology a fair defense. Only like 27 pages out of 207
April 1, 2021
The author's style is easy and simple. He even repeats the main points at the end of each chapter or even section. A good start to learn about doctrinal differences.
April 26, 2021
A clear presentation of Dispensational versus Covenant Theology. Foundational book on Dispensationalism.
August 28, 2023
Very one sided. Not fair to the covenantal side at all. MUCH better books that cover this topic from a fair and balanced approach.
December 14, 2017
Could not finish.
June 30, 2016
Regarding There Really is a Difference!: A Comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology, the version I read had a different cover, but the copyright date was the same, so I assume this does not affect the text.
Renald E. Showers is a previous pastor, lecturer, author, and is involved in parachurch ministry. He is a Dispensationalist. This book, as the title clearly indicates, compares (it also contrasts) the two most popular theological models (also known as “systems”) pertaining to what may be called the Biblical Philosophy of History: Covenant Theology and Dispensationalism. Covenant Theology, generally associated with the Reformed and Puritanical traditions, views all of this history as part of two (or usually) three covenants instituted by the Lord. Dispensationalism, often associated with evangelicalism and Baptists, attempts to develop this history as the sovereign rule of God, representing history as being covered by various numbers (often seven) of dispensations of God’s rule. Covenant Theology generally views the main purpose of God’s plan as the salvation of sinners; Dispensationalism generally views this purpose of bringing glory to God (John Piper’s oddly-titled book, Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist, provides a good argument for this rationale).
The book itself is well-done. The chapters are named in such a way to provide an overview of what will be covered in the individual sections. Showers has included heading and subheadings that adequately break up the text. He does include what he calls Footnotes at the end, which are, therefore, really End Notes. There is no Scripture or general indices, which I view as a negative for a book that is primarily going to be used by students and scholars, and I deduct a star for this omission.
The book begins with a foreward and introduction. Covenant Theology is then examined and evaluated. Dispensationalism is then treated likewise. Following are some issues related to the two theological models: The Abrahamic Covenant, The Davidic Covenant, The New Covenant, various millennial views (chiliasm, technically, from the Greek) and their history and current statuses, and the tension between Law and Grace. The book proper ends with a conclusion followed by the back matter.
Overall, I agree with Showers’ proposals. I find Covenant Theology too restrictive, and I appreciate and agree with the Dispensational views of the distinction between Israel and the Church, and I do think the primary purpose of the universe/creation is to bring glory to God (of which, the salvation of sinners is an important but not primary part). The Dispensational views fit well with the biblical texts, and I think this system is valid. I do not think that one must be a Dispensationalist, but I do think the model is legitimate and provides a clear and accurate way of viewing Scripture.
This book is pretty specific, and I imagine students and others interested in one or both and, especially, the comparison/contrast between the systems will be interested in this book. Pastors and those seeking to converse with those holding to one of the systems might also find it useful.
Renald E. Showers is a previous pastor, lecturer, author, and is involved in parachurch ministry. He is a Dispensationalist. This book, as the title clearly indicates, compares (it also contrasts) the two most popular theological models (also known as “systems”) pertaining to what may be called the Biblical Philosophy of History: Covenant Theology and Dispensationalism. Covenant Theology, generally associated with the Reformed and Puritanical traditions, views all of this history as part of two (or usually) three covenants instituted by the Lord. Dispensationalism, often associated with evangelicalism and Baptists, attempts to develop this history as the sovereign rule of God, representing history as being covered by various numbers (often seven) of dispensations of God’s rule. Covenant Theology generally views the main purpose of God’s plan as the salvation of sinners; Dispensationalism generally views this purpose of bringing glory to God (John Piper’s oddly-titled book, Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist, provides a good argument for this rationale).
The book itself is well-done. The chapters are named in such a way to provide an overview of what will be covered in the individual sections. Showers has included heading and subheadings that adequately break up the text. He does include what he calls Footnotes at the end, which are, therefore, really End Notes. There is no Scripture or general indices, which I view as a negative for a book that is primarily going to be used by students and scholars, and I deduct a star for this omission.
The book begins with a foreward and introduction. Covenant Theology is then examined and evaluated. Dispensationalism is then treated likewise. Following are some issues related to the two theological models: The Abrahamic Covenant, The Davidic Covenant, The New Covenant, various millennial views (chiliasm, technically, from the Greek) and their history and current statuses, and the tension between Law and Grace. The book proper ends with a conclusion followed by the back matter.
Overall, I agree with Showers’ proposals. I find Covenant Theology too restrictive, and I appreciate and agree with the Dispensational views of the distinction between Israel and the Church, and I do think the primary purpose of the universe/creation is to bring glory to God (of which, the salvation of sinners is an important but not primary part). The Dispensational views fit well with the biblical texts, and I think this system is valid. I do not think that one must be a Dispensationalist, but I do think the model is legitimate and provides a clear and accurate way of viewing Scripture.
This book is pretty specific, and I imagine students and others interested in one or both and, especially, the comparison/contrast between the systems will be interested in this book. Pastors and those seeking to converse with those holding to one of the systems might also find it useful.
March 11, 2011
Dr. Showers treats his readers to a powerful contrast between covenant and dispensational theology. Although the work is not without its flaws, it is well worth the time of the reader to study it thoroughly and to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the systems presented therein. The work begins by laying out the systems of Covenant and Dispensational theology. The next section deals with the various covenants and how the Dispensationalist views their application today and in the future. The third section discusses millennial views, and the last section deals with various teachings such as the kingdom of God, the origin of the church, and the relationship between the law and the Christian. Overall, the book forms a valuable introduction to Dispensational theology. Keep in mind that this work is designed more for Dispensationalists who are trying to grasp the complexities of the Covenant system and to understand in what manner they differ.
November 20, 2018
Well-written and researched. Very structured and technical. Strong arguments overall. There are very few points that the author pushed too much to prove his point but are not really weighty.
Eschatology will always be tied into the method of Theology (Covenant or Dispensational) and I really liked the author’s historical references. I just don’t know how he was able to deduce and determine (somewhat conclusively) why the Church fathers interpreted Scripture the way they did.
I also noticed that the book many times does not have the Scripture passages but just the references to it. Inserting it would have been easier on the reader, instead of him/her switching focus from the book.
I would definitely recommend this book as a comparison tool between the 2 methods of interpreting Scripture and what it entails. I really liked the author’s conclusion. Doctrines do affect our perspectives and our way of life.
Eschatology will always be tied into the method of Theology (Covenant or Dispensational) and I really liked the author’s historical references. I just don’t know how he was able to deduce and determine (somewhat conclusively) why the Church fathers interpreted Scripture the way they did.
I also noticed that the book many times does not have the Scripture passages but just the references to it. Inserting it would have been easier on the reader, instead of him/her switching focus from the book.
I would definitely recommend this book as a comparison tool between the 2 methods of interpreting Scripture and what it entails. I really liked the author’s conclusion. Doctrines do affect our perspectives and our way of life.
August 30, 2013
I thought the author did a good job explaining the basic difference between the two theologies. I personally thought he could have made a stronger argument for dispensation theology by focusing the book more on the Scriptural part of the argument rather than dragging examples from church history. Plus, the constant repetition detracted from the enjoyment of the book rather than emphasize an important concept. After about 40 pages of the same idea, you would think you would get the basic premise of his argument. However, if anybody else is totally ignorant of either theology, I highly recommend this book!
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