There Really Is a Difference!: A Comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology

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Summary: As good as they come, but with one glaring weakness
Review: All the dispensational critiques of covenantal theology that I know of deal with only "classical" covenantal theology and ignore the most recent, very important developments in the expression of the covenant. One smallish book that is actually pretty decent -- although it falls clearly in the category I just described -- is Renald E. Showers' *There Really Is a Difference!: A Comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology.* Since the covenant is currently an area where a LOT of theological activity is taking place, I wonder if there are any dispensationalist books that interact with the most recent developments. Even Blaising, Bock and Saucy with their promotion of progressive dispensationalism haven't digested the newest developments in covenantal theology. Dozens of important new books dealing with covenantal theology have been produced since the time most of the current critiques were written. Ironically, probably the best "dispensationalist critique" of covenantal theology is by Vern Sheridan Poythress!...Where a dispensational critique of "classical" covenantal theology could be genuinely useful to a follower of covenantal theology is in helping to accentuate the differences between classical covenantal theology and the newest developments. Of course, to derive that benefit the reader would have to be familiar with the newest developments in covenantal theology. And by the way, I don't mean to imply that the newest developments somehow negate the classical formulations; rather, they develop it more fully and tie it more firmly to the rest of Christian doctrine. Actually, what I think we are starting to see very clearly is that virtually all Christian doctrine flows out of the Trinity and the eternal covenantal relationship among the Persons of the Godhead. In any case, I give Showers credit for a balanced presentation of "classical" covenantal theology. Needless to say, perhaps, but I'll say it anyway -- it didn't persuade me to become a dispensationalist....

Rating:
Summary: There Really is a Simple Explanation!
Review: Dr. Showers has written a very readable comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology. He takes a delicate, complex subject and handles it brilliantly and accurately while taking careful consideration to his readers differing views. He offers a compelling argument for Dispensationalism that cannot be ignored by friend or foe. A must read for all who are interested in "rightly dividing the Word of God".

Rating:
Summary: Excellent
Review: This book examines the differences between covenant theology and dispensational theology. Furthermore, he explains the value of understanding these differences. He aptly exposes the lack of Scriptural support for Covenant Theology. Renald Showers writes with scholarly conviction and with Christ-like humility.

Rating:
Summary: A Great primer on dispensationalism
Review: This was one of the best books on theology that I read this year (2003). The opening chapter was a good survey of the dispensational system of interpretation. He then discusses the four major biblical covenants. The rest of the book is Showers' take on why he feels that the dispensational system is a better way of interpreting scripture than the covenant system. I would recommend this book to Christians who want to learn more about how to intepret scripture.