A prominent figure in Christian theology, known for developing the Scofield Reference Bible, a widely used study Bible that systematized biblical prophecy and doctrine.
Cyrus Ingerson Scofield is widely recognized as the theologian who popularized dispensationalism, a theological system that interprets biblical history as a series of distinct eras or "dispensations". His annotated Bible, which has sold millions of copies worldwide, has been a cornerstone of fundamentalist Christianity for over a century.
Scofield was born on August 19, 1843, in Clinton Township, Lenawee County, Michigan, to Elias and Abigail Goodrich Scofield. After his mother's death, his father remarried twice, and Scofield's early education is unknown. However, he developed a love for reading and was well-versed in Shakespeare and Homer.
In 1861, Scofield enlisted as a private in the 7th Tennessee Infantry, C.S.A., and fought in several battles, including Cheat Mountain, Seven Pines, and Antietam. After a month in Chimborazo Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, he petitioned for a discharge and later deserted, taking the Union oath of allegiance in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
In 1866, Scofield married Leontine LeBeau Cerr, a member of a prominent French Catholic family in St. Louis, Missouri. He apprenticed in law and later worked in the St. Louis assessor's office before moving to Atchison, Kansas, in 1869.
Scofield was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives in 1871, serving two terms, and later became a theologian, minister, and writer. His annotated Bible, published in 1909, became an instant bestseller, popularizing dispensationalism and futurism among fundamentalist Christians.
Scofield's dispensationalism posits that biblical history consists of seven distinct eras, each with its own unique characteristics and divine purposes. He believed that the Church Age, in which believers live today, is a parentheses in God's plan, and that the Bible should be interpreted literally.
Scofield's system emphasizes the distinction between Israel and the Church, and he is often criticized for his views on premillennialism, which holds that the Second Coming of Christ will occur before the millennium.
Scofield's annotated Bible has had a profound impact on modern Christianity, influencing the development of fundamentalist and evangelical theology. His dispensationalism has shaped the eschatological views of many Christians, and his commentary remains a widely used reference in Bible studies.
Despite controversy surrounding some of his views, Scofield's legacy as a theologian and writer has endured, and his annotated Bible remains a classic of Christian literature.
"The Bible is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. Its purpose is to bring men to Christ, and to form Christ in them."
"The dispensations are not different ways of salvation, but different ways of testing, and thus of manifesting, the faithfulness of God."
Scofield's dispensationalism has been criticized by some for its perceived literalism and lack of nuance in biblical interpretation. Additionally, some have accused him of being overly influenced by his premillennialism and his views on Israel and the Church.
Despite these criticisms, Scofield remains a respected figure in Christian theology, and his annotated Bible continues to be a valuable resource for believers around the world.
Born in 1837
A pioneering evangelist and publisher who founded influential institutions, spreading Christianity and education through various mediums. Known for his passion and dedication to spreading the Gospel.
Born in 1834
A renowned Baptist preacher and prolific writer, known for his powerful sermons and numerous published works that still inspire and influence Christians today.
95 Years Old
A legendary promoter who revolutionized the music industry by organizing iconic concerts and festivals, such as Woodstock and the Fillmore, shaping the cultural landscape of the 1960s.
92 Years Old
A prominent evangelical leader and TV personality who founded the Moral Majority, a political organization that advocated for conservative Christian values, and hosted a popular religious television program.
96 Years Old
Founded the Christian Broadcasting Network, a prominent television network that spreads Christian values and news to millions, and is a influential voice in American evangelicalism.
Born in 1926
A prominent evangelical Christian minister, activist, and author, best known for co-authoring the popular "Left Behind" series of apocalyptic fiction novels. His writings have had a significant impact on modern Christian thought and culture.
87 Years Old
A prominent evangelical pastor and author, known for his biblical teachings, conservative theology, and bestselling books on Christianity. He has been a influential voice in modern evangelicalism.
