This section of the Manual is devoted to the careful reading, understanding, and faithful handling of Scripture. It equips ministers to approach the Bible with clarity, reverence, and responsibility by attending to its historical setting, literary form, and theological message. The goal is not speculation, but sound interpretation that honors the intent of the biblical authors and serves the Church faithfully.
Whether preparing sermons, teaching Bible studies, or responding to difficult questions, this section provides a stable foundation for interpreting God’s Word accurately and wisely.
This section focuses on how Scripture is read and understood. Formal doctrinal conclusions and systematic theology are addressed within the Doctrine and Theology section of the Manual.
Use this section as a reference as you study Scripture, prepare messages, and guide others toward a deeper and more faithful understanding of God’s Word.
Rebuilding What God Restores One Sentence Memory Line Haggai calls God’s people to reorder their priorities, rebuild His house, and trust that obedience restores both worship and blessing. Historical Setting The Book of Haggai is set in the post-exilic period around 520 B.C., during the reign …
Mark, also known as John Mark, was an important figure in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. He is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of Mark, one of the four canonical Gospels, and is closely associated with the apostle Peter …
The biography of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Bible, is found primarily in the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These accounts provide insights into Jesus’ life, ministry, teachings, death, and resurrection. Below is a concise summary of key events in Jesus’ life, along …
The Book of Joshua One Sentence Memory Line The book of Joshua records how the Lord fulfilled His promise by bringing Israel into the land of Canaan and calling His people to courageous faith, covenant obedience, and faithful leadership. Historical Setting The events of Joshua take …
The Herodians were a Jewish political faction or sect during the first century AD. They were named after Herod the Great, the ruler of Judea under Roman authority, and later his descendants who continued to govern various regions within Judea. The Herodians were known for their …
In the Bible, the Sadducees were another influential religious group during the time of Jesus. Like the Pharisees, they were one of the Jewish sects or parties that existed in the first century AD. However, the Sadducees differed from the Pharisees in terms of their beliefs, …
John the Baptist, also known as John the Baptizer, is a significant figure in the New Testament of the Bible. He is considered a prophet and a forerunner to Jesus Christ, preparing the way for His ministry. The primary accounts of John’s life and ministry are …
Faith in God Amid Troubled Times One Sentence Memory Line Habakkuk teaches that the righteous must trust God’s justice and sovereignty even when His ways seem confusing and His timing delayed. Historical Setting Habakkuk ministered during the late seventh century B.C., at a moment when Judah …
Below are a few Bible verses about betrayal: Psalm 41:9 (NIV) – “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.” Matthew 26:14-16 (NIV) – “Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and …
