When Foundations Are Blended – How Misunderstanding Scripture Breeds Confusion

When Foundations Are Blended – How Misunderstanding Scripture Breeds Confusion

When the Bible is not rightly divided, sincere believers often blend Israel’s kingdom doctrine with the Body of Christ’s grace doctrine. This mixture may seem harmless, even noble, but it produces confusion, contradiction, and ultimately false doctrine. Instead of clarity, we get manmade interpretations that twist Scripture to fit human reasoning. Instead of assurance, we get spiritual instability.

The root issue is foundational: Israel’s prophetic program and the Body of Christ’s mystery program are not the same. They have different audiences, different messages, and different hopes. When these are blended together, even well-meaning believers begin to reinterpret verses, redefine terms, and resist the very apostle Christ sent to reveal the truth for this age.

Below are twenty real-world claims made by believers who do not rightly divide. Each one is followed by a doctrinal correction using Scripture alone—especially Paul’s epistles, which contain the doctrine for the Body of Christ. These examples are not meant to shame, but to teach. They show how far we can drift when we ignore the dispensational boundaries God has placed in His Word.

🔹 Claim 1: “I believe the Bible teaches there is one foundation; not two.”

Correction: Scripture teaches that Jesus Christ is the ultimate foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11), but it also reveals that this foundation is applied differently across dispensations.

• Israel’s foundation was laid in prophecy and promises (Isaiah 28:16, Matthew 16:18), connected to the kingdom and covenants.
• The Body of Christ’s foundation was revealed as a mystery after the cross (Romans 16:25, Ephesians 2:20), built on the gospel of grace.

Paul distinguishes between what was spoken by the prophets since the world began (Acts 3:21) and what was kept secret since the world began (Romans 16:25). These are not the same foundation in application, audience, or doctrine.

Why the Bible Only Contradicts When You Read It All as One Book

Why the Bible Only Contradicts When You Read It All as One Book

This post addresses an article in which the author ridicules the Bible, claiming it is riddled with contradictions and therefore cannot be divinely inspired. Their critique stems not from malice, but from a deep misunderstanding of Scripture’s structure, purpose, and context. By treating the Bible as a single, undivided document—where every verse is assumed to apply equally to every person in every age—they fall into the common trap of contextual blindness. Their article mocks dozens of verses, pairing them as supposed contradictions, and uses these mismatches to dismiss the Bible’s credibility.

What follows is a corrective reply: each quoted “contradiction” is examined and rightly divided according to God’s dispensational blueprint—between prophecy and mystery, law and grace, Israel and the Body of Christ. Once this division is recognised, the confusion dissolves, and Scripture is revealed not as a flawed book, but as a perfectly ordered revelation of God’s truth, harmony, and eternal purpose.

You’re Right—It Doesn’t Add Up. But That’s Because You’re Missing the Key.

You wrote:

“The thing that primarily killed my faith is that I read enough of The Bible to realize that it teemed with contradictions and thus couldn’t possibly have been divinely inspired…”

That’s honest. And it’s a common conclusion—especially among those who were taught to treat the Bible as one seamless document, where every verse applies equally to every person in every age. But that’s not how the Bible presents itself. And once you learn to rightly divide it, the contradictions vanish.

Let’s start with your first example:

Does Dispensationalism Divide God?

Does Dispensationalism Divide God?

Many critics of dispensational truth argue that it creates a dangerous division within the Godhead—portraying the Father as the source of law and judgment, and the Son as the bearer of grace and mercy. This objection often takes the form of five specific claims:

• That dispensationalism separates the Father and the Son, implying two different divine standards.
• That it introduces two laws—one from the Father, one from the Son—undermining the incarnation.
• That it makes Jesus a new lawgiver who softens or replaces the Father’s commands.
• That it turns the kingdom of God into a political system rather than a spiritual reality.
• That it revives the ancient heresy of Marcionism by dividing the Old and New Testament portrayals of God.

In the article below, we will examine each of these claims in light of Scripture and demonstrate that they arise from a misunderstanding of dispensational teaching. Far from dividing the Godhead, dispensational truth affirms the unity of Father, Son, and Spirit—each operating in perfect harmony across distinct stewardships. Let the Word rightly divided bring clarity.

Dispensationalism and the Unity of the Godhead: One Will, One Purpose

A common accusation against dispensational truth is that it separates the Father and the Son—portraying the Father as the source of law and judgment, and the Son as the agent of grace and mercy. This objection claims that dispensationalism teaches two different divine wills, or even two different standards of righteousness. But this is a misrepresentation. Dispensational truth does not divide the Godhead; it distinguishes the progressive revelation of God’s unified purpose across time. Scripture affirms that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one in essence, one in purpose, and one in will—yet they have revealed that will in different ways across dispensations.

Let us examine the key misunderstandings and correct them with Scripture.

Dispensational Clarity concerning the Unity of God

Many who oppose dispensational truth often raise concerns about the unity of God and the gospel, suggesting that dispensational teaching divides God's nature, fragments His message, and introduces conflicting standards of salvation. These objections typically centre around five key claims, as listed below—each aiming to discredit the legitimacy of rightly dividing the Word. 

In this post, we will examine these claims carefully and demonstrate, through Scripture alone, that these arguments are unfounded. Far from undermining unity, dispensational truth clarifies God's consistent character, His unfolding gospel, and His sovereign plan across time.

Claims concerning the Unity of God and the Gospel

• Dispensationalism divides Scripture into eras that allegedly change God’s requirements, fracturing the unity of His nature and voice.
• It implies God operates differently in different dispensations, altering His will, law, and gospel — contradicting His immutability (Mal. 3:6; Heb. 13:8).
• It creates multiple gospels (kingdom, grace, everlasting), which undermines the singularity of salvation and violates Galatians 1:8.
• It separates the teachings of Jesus from the Church, making His commands seem irrelevant to believers today.
• It treats the gospel as a system of timelines rather than a revelation of one Person — Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Dispensational Clarity concerning the Unity of God

One of the most common objections to dispensational truth is the claim that it divides God, fragments His gospel, and undermines His eternal nature. Critics often assert that dispensationalism teaches multiple ways of salvation, conflicting divine standards, and a fractured view of Christ’s teachings. But these accusations stem from a misunderstanding of what dispensationalism actually affirms. Far from dividing God, dispensational truth rightly distinguishes His dealings with mankind across time, while preserving the unity of His character, His gospel, and His redemptive purpose.

Let us examine and correct five common misconceptions.

From Babes to Sons: How Paul’s Doctrine Grows the Believer

From Babes to Sons: How Paul’s Doctrine Grows the Believer

When we read Paul’s letters, we don’t just see words—we see a journey. A journey from spiritual infancy to maturity. From confusion to clarity. From weakness to strength. And this journey is not random or emotional—it is built on doctrine. The Word of God, rightly divided, is the tool that transforms a believer from a babe in Christ to a mature son who walks in godliness and spiritual understanding.

Paul’s letters to the Corinthians and Galatians show us what spiritual infancy looks like. These churches were saved, yes—but they were unstable. They were easily swayed, morally compromised, and doctrinally confused. Paul calls the Corinthians “babes in Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:1) and rebukes the Galatians for being “foolish” and “bewitched” (Galatians 3:1). These believers could not handle strong doctrine. Paul had to go back to basics—correcting their view of the gospel, exposing their carnality, and pleading with them to grow up. They were children, tossed to and fro, needing milk and not meat.

Now contrast that with Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians. Here we see a different tone. Paul is not rebuking—he is rejoicing. He says, “We give thanks to God always for you all… remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope” (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3). These believers had received the Word “not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God” (1 Thessalonians 2:13). They were standing fast, enduring persecution, and walking in holiness. Paul calls them “brethren beloved of the Lord” and speaks to them as sons—not as children.

Honouring Scripture Over Emotion: Learning from Paul’s Example

Honouring Scripture Over Emotion: Learning from Paul’s Example

In moments of provocation, how do we respond? Do we let our emotions dictate our actions, or do we submit ourselves to the authority of God's Word? Paul’s encounter with the high priest in Acts 23:2-5 offers a powerful example of humility, self-control, and unwavering reverence for Scripture—an attitude we should value and imitate.

Paul’s Immediate Reaction

When struck unjustly, Paul’s first response was sharp: “God shall smite thee, thou whited wall” (Acts 23:3). His words carried righteous indignation, exposing the hypocrisy of Ananias, who violated the law he claimed to uphold. Yet, when informed that he had spoken against the high priest, Paul did not defend his initial reaction or justify his anger. Instead, he immediately submitted to the truth of Scripture, quoting Exodus 22:28: “Thou shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of thy people.”

This swift correction is remarkable. Paul could have clung to his frustration, arguing that Ananias was corrupt and undeserving of honour. But he did not. His commitment to God’s Word outweighed his personal feelings, reminding us that Scripture, not emotion, must govern our responses.

What Lessons Can We Learn From This

Embracing Correction and Truth

Embracing Correction and Truth

Spiritual maturity is a journey—a transformative process that challenges us to move beyond our own understanding and align our hearts and minds with the truth of God's Word. This growth often involves reproof and correction, two elements that may feel uncomfortable but are essential for shaping us into the image of Christ. As believers, we are called to renew our minds through Scripture, allowing God's wisdom to displace our own, and in doing so, we begin to understand the deeper truths of God’s word, His will and His judgements. 

The Galatian saints struggled with this, relying on their own efforts and clinging to the law of Moses instead of embracing the faith-centered doctrine that Paul taught. Their error lay in attempting to perfect themselves through fleshly endeavours rather than submitting to the transformative power of God's Word. This serves as a lesson for all believers: true transformation comes not from our own wisdom or actions, but from the renewing of our minds by Scripture alone. We cannot layer God's truth on top of our flawed thinking and expect to grow; instead, we must allow His Word to reshape us entirely. 

Acknowledging our need for correction is critical in this process. Paul warns in 2 Timothy 2:25-26 that those who oppose themselves are caught in the snare of the devil, unaware that they are walking in false doctrine. The first step to freedom is recognizing and admitting our errors. This attitude of humility helps us to change our mind and leads us back to the path of truth. Like the Galatians, we may sometimes find it difficult to accept correction, especially when it challenges deeply held beliefs or exposes areas of weakness. Yet, this willingness to embrace reproof is vital for spiritual growth. 

Rightly Divide to Understand Salvation in the Grace vs. the Kingdom Programs

Rightly Divide to Understand Salvation in the Grace vs. the Kingdom Programs

Introduction: A Common Misunderstanding About Salvation

In discussions about salvation, many well-meaning Christians, who do not rightly divide the word of truth, fall into the trap of mixing different biblical instructions intended for distinct audiences and periods. This misunderstanding often stems from combining teachings from Jesus’ earthly ministry with those found in the Apostle Paul’s epistles, which outline the gospel for the present dispensation of grace. Here is a summary of this prevalent but doctrinally inconsistent viewpoint:

1. Confession for Salvation: Based on Matthew 10:32 and Luke 12:8, it is argued that public confession is required for salvation, along with faith.
2. Repentance from Sin: Verses like Luke 5:32 and Luke 24:47 are used to emphasize that turning away from sin (repentance) is a prerequisite for salvation.
3. Water Baptism: Passages such as Mark 16:16 and Acts 2:38 are interpreted to mean that water baptism is necessary for the remission of sins and salvation.
4. Endurance for Salvation: Matthew 24:13 is cited to suggest that believers must endure until the end of their lives to secure salvation.
5. Peter’s Message at Pentecost: Acts 2:38 is taken as universal guidance for salvation, combining repentance and baptism for the remission of sins.

While this view appears comprehensive, it mistakenly blends requirements from Israel’s kingdom program under the Old Covenant with the grace program revealed through Paul. Sadly, these misunderstandings place undue burdens on believers and obscures the simple, liberating truth of salvation by grace through faith alone. With this overview established, let us analyse these points to uncover what is doctrinally wrong, why these interpretations are inconsistent with the current dispensation, and what the correct biblical teaching is. Rightly dividing the word of truth brings clarity, freedom, and a deeper understanding of God’s plan.

Be vigilant of false teachers and always confirm everything by what the Word actually says

Be vigilant of false teachers and always confirm everything by what the Word actually says

This post contains someone's reaction to the following post:

• https://thebigpicturelink.blogspot.com/2023/07/so-much-said-is-so-few-words.html

Sadly, the below reaction is a common event. It illustrates the level of shallowness in Bible study and blatant ignorance of God's Word. It also shows how the pride and presumption of people like this can so easily lead other Christians astray, who are not yet stable in the Word, and who can be tossed to and fro, carried about with every wind of doctrine, (Eph.4:14).

Please evaluate the statements below and then read my response attentively to observe what the Bible 'really' says about our salvation and standing before God. 

Disputing ignorance with what the Bible really says

Disputing ignorance with what the Bible really says

STATEMENTS:

• AnyOne Who is.. NOT ... born again of The Holy Spirit... is.. NOT .. Saved -- John 3:3, 5
• AnyOne Who Doesn't Have the Same Spirit as Jesus...is NOT Saved -- Romans 8:9
• AnyOne Who Doesn't Carry their cross & Follow Him...is NOT Saved -- Matt 16:24-26 / Mark 8:34 37 / Luke 9:23-25
• AnyOne Who is.. NOT...Led by the Holy Spirit is..NOT Saved -- Romans 8:14
• AnyOne Who Doesn't Know my Fathers Will for their Life...is NOT SAVED -- Matt 7:21
• ---->>> Ephesians 5:18 --- Be FILLED... with the HOLY SPIRIT...
• AnyOne Who Doesn't Obey Jesus...is NOT SAVED -- Hebrews 5:9
• AnyOne Who Doesn't Know His Voice & Follow Him...is NOT SAVED -- John 10:27

RESPONSE TO SUCH IGNORANCE

The above commentary is fairly typical of people out there who respond to doctrine and bible studies through arrogance and immaturity. They are the 'know-it-alls' who themselves have closed their hearts and minds to sound instruction and correction. Beware of the advice and vanity they post. Always compare scripture with scripture and ensure you have scriptural proof of any comments and opinions before taking it to heart and setting your faith upon it.