Dispensationalism, the Biblical Solution Definition pg 127 Virkler presents this neutrally, its emphasis herein as truth is mine.

• The Definition of a Dispensation

• A Dispensation is “a period of time during which man is tested in respect of obedience to some specific revelation of the will of God

The Three Patterns of Dispensationalism

• 1) God gives human beings a specific set of responsibilities or patterns for obedience;
• 2) humankind fails to live up to that set of responsibilities.
• 3) God responds in mercy by giving a different set of responsibilities, that is, a new dispensation.