Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth

A Mid-Acts Dispensational Study of God's Programs

Introduction

Understanding how to "rightly divide the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15) is essential for properly interpreting and applying Scripture. The following charts and explanations will help you understand the distinct programs God has revealed in His Word.

The Prophetic Program - Timline Before Revelation of the MYSTERY

God's prophetic program, revealed from Genesis through the early Acts period, focused primarily on Israel. This program was consistent and progressive, building upon God's promises to His chosen nation.

Key Elements of the Prophetic Timeline:

1. Foundation Period

   • Began with Adam

   • Distinction established between Israel and Gentiles

   • Law given through Moses

   • David's kingdom established

2. Kingdom Development

   • Prophesied in Daniel 2:44

   • Israel's ministry under the Law

   • Prophets foretold future kingdom

3. Christ's Earthly Ministry

   • John the Baptist prepared the way

   • Jesus preached "Kingdom at hand"

   • Ministry exclusively to Israel (Matthew 10:5-7)

   • Offered Kingdom to Israel

The Timeline After Revelation of the MYSTERY

The Mystery Program Revealed

With Paul's conversion in Acts 9, God revealed a previously hidden program - the Mystery. This chart shows how God's dealings changed with this new revelation and what lies ahead.

Three Major Divisions:

1. Time Past (Left Section)

   • John the Baptist's ministry

   • Christ's earthly ministry

   • Early Acts period

   • Kingdom offered to Israel

2. But Now (Center Section)

   • Paul's conversion

   • Mystery revealed

   • Body of Christ formed

   • Current Grace dispensation

   • Kingdom program suspended

3. Ages to Come (Right Section)

   • Rapture of the Body of Christ

   • Tribulation period

   • Second Coming

   • Millennial Kingdom

   • Final judgment

Understanding the Distinction

The Prophecy Program:

• Revealed from the beginning

• Focused on Israel

• Required Law-keeping

• Promised earthly kingdom

• Water baptism required

• Included signs and wonders

The Mystery Program:

• Hidden until revealed to Paul

• Includes all believers

• Based on grace alone

• Heavenly position

• Spiritual baptism only

• No required signs or ceremonies

Current Application

For believers today in the Dispensation of Grace:

1. Salvation

   • By grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9)

   • Not of works (Titus 3:5)

   • Based on Christ's finished work

2. Church Position

   • Members of Body of Christ

   • Blessed with spiritual blessings

   • Heavenly citizenship

3. Ministry

   • Proclaim the Gospel of Christ

   • Follow Paul's pattern

   • Ambassador ministry (2 Corinthians 5:20)

Future Events

The prophetic program will resume after the Rapture:

1. Tribulation period begins

2. Second Coming of Christ

3. Kingdom established

4. Prophecies fulfilled

Conclusion

Understanding these distinctions helps us:

• Properly interpret Scripture

• Apply truth for today

• Appreciate God's purpose

• Minister effectively

For further study, focus on Paul's epistles (Romans through Philemon) for doctrine while learning from all Scripture in its proper context.

Note: All Scripture quotations are from the King James Version (KJV)

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