Dispensational Error
Dispensational Error
Because of dispensational errors many people misunderstand important theological doctrines.
One such doctrine for example is the thief on the cross argument and baptism.
Another example is the difference between the lesser commission and the great commission.
The lesser commission occurred while Jesus was alive on earth.
The great commission began at his ascension.
Let's break this down:
1. Jesus’ earthly ministry was Israel-centered
While on Earth, Jesus focused solely on Israel (Matthew 15:24: “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel”).
His mission was to give Israel one final chance to repent and accept the kingdom (Luke 19:41–44, Matthew 21:43).
Because of this, Jesus did not publicly confront or rebuke Rome, even though Rome was morally corrupt and oppressing Israel.
His timing was deliberate: his immediate role was proclamation and repentance for Israel, not judgment of the Gentile powers.
2. Authority over all nations had not yet been exercised
During his ministry, Jesus was operating in a self-limited mode (Philippians 2:5–8), not exercising the full, universal authority that belonged to him as the Son of God.
The authority to confront Gentile empires—Rome included—was not part of his earthly mission. He was fulfilling God’s plan step by step.
3. Taking the Gospel to the nations comes after authority is reinstated
After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, he declared:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18).
This marked the beginning of a new phase: believers, led by the apostles, could now teach, rebuke, and expose sin across all nations, not just Israel.
Paul, especially, became the instrument through whom Jesus’ authority was exercised among the Gentiles.
He rebuked Roman leaders directly and indirectly through letters and teaching, addressed moral corruption in Gentile communities, and proclaimed God’s law for all peoples (e.g., Romans 1:18–32; 13:1–7).
Paul’s ministry reflects the universal application of Christ’s authority, something that was not fully active during Jesus’ earthly ministry.
4. Timing is key in God’s plan
Jesus’ silence toward Rome during his earhly ministry was not neglect, but perfect timing.
God’s plan unfolds in stages:
1. Jesus’ ministry: Israel-focused, final opportunity to repent.
2. Ascension and Great Commission: Universal authority restored.
3. Paul and the apostles: Expansion of God’s law, moral accountability, and exposure of sin to the nations.
Jesus didn’t call out Rome while on Earth because his mission was limited to Israel. Only after his resurrection and the reinstatement of his universal authority did Paul, under Christ’s commission, confront the sins of the Gentile nations and teach them God’s moral standards.