dispensation Summary and Overview

(Gr. oikonomia, "management," "economy"). (1.) The method or scheme according to which God carries out his purposes towards men is called a dispensation. There are usually reckoned three dispensations, the Patriarchal, the Mosaic or Jewish, and the Christian. (See COVENANT T0000916, Administration of.) These were so many stages in God's unfolding of his purpose of grace toward men. The word is not found with this meaning in Scripture. (2.) A commission to preach the gospel (1 Cor. 9:17; Eph. 1:10; 3:2; Col. 1:25). Dispensations of Providence are providential events which affect men either in the way of mercy or of judgement.

DISPENSA'TION . This word, in its scriptural use, generally denotes a plan or scheme, or a system of precepts and principles prescribed and revealed by God for his own glory, and for the advantage and happiness of his creatures. 1 Cor 9:17; Eph 1:10; 2 Sam 3:2; Col 1:25. In the passages above cited it is supposed to mean an authority or commission to preach the gospel. The dispensation of the Law by Moses and of the gospel by Jesus Christ are examples of the use of the word in its former meaning.