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.
The Old Testament outlines several festivals or feasts that were observed by the Israelites. Here are the seven main festivals: 1. Passover (Pesach): This festival commemorated the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. It involved the sacrifice and consumption of a lamb, unleavened bread, and bitter …
Below are Bible verses about anger: 1. Ephesians 4:26-27: “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” 2. Proverbs 14:29: “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one …
Deuteronomy: Covenant Renewal Before the Promised Land One Sentence Memory Line Deuteronomy records Moses’ final sermons calling Israel to renew their covenant with God by remembering His faithfulness, obeying His law, and trusting Him as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Historical Setting The book …
1 and 2 Samuel: Rise of Israel’s Monarchy One Sentence Memory Line 1 and 2 Samuel recount how God transitions Israel from tribal leadership under judges to a unified monarchy, revealing both the promise and peril of kingship through the lives of Samuel, Saul, and David. …
Below are Bible verses about witchcraft: 1. Exodus 22:18: “Do not allow a sorceress to live.” 2. Deuteronomy 18:10-12: “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or …
Here are some Bible verses that mention or address the concept of hate: 1. Leviticus 19:17: “Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt.” 2. Proverbs 10:12: “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love …
Below are Bible verses that mention or refer to light: 1. Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” 2. John 8:12: “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever …
Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the author of the Gospel of Matthew, the first book in the New Testament of the Bible. His story is found primarily in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels of …
Below are Bible verses about wisdom: 1. Proverbs 2:6: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” 2. Proverbs 3:13-18: “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns …
1 and 2 Kings: The Rise and Fall of Israel’s Monarchies One Sentence Memory Line The books of 1 and 2 Kings reveal how Israel’s monarchy rose to power under David’s dynasty but ultimately collapsed because successive kings abandoned covenant faithfulness to the Lord. Historical Setting …