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 Book of Genesis: Foundations of Creation and Covenant One Sentence Memory Line Genesis reveals how God created the world, formed humanity in His image, judged sin, and began His redemptive plan through covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants. Historical Setting Genesis opens the biblical …
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 …
Below are Bible verses about demons: 1. Matthew 8:16: “When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick.” 2. Mark 5:8-9: “For Jesus had said to him, ‘Come out of …
Faithfulness Under Foreign Kings One Sentence Memory Line Daniel reveals how God sovereignly rules over earthly kingdoms while calling His people to faithful endurance in exile. Historical Setting The Book of Daniel unfolds during the Babylonian exile, beginning around 605 BC when King Nebuchadnezzar deported Jewish …
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 …
Below are Bible verses that mention or refer to darkness: 1. Isaiah 9:2: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” 2. John 1:5: “The light shines in the darkness, and …
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder This scripture seems to suggest that prophecies may or may not come to pass depending upon the response of people to the prophecy: The instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck it up …
The Book of Judges One Sentence Memory Line The Book of Judges reveals Israel’s repeated cycle of rebellion, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, demonstrating both the consequences of covenant unfaithfulness and the persistent mercy of God. Key Insight Judges illustrates a spiritual pattern that ministers still observe …
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 …
Gratitude is an important attitude for Christians to cultivate. Here are some Bible verses that emphasize the importance of gratitude: 1. 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 2. Colossians 3:15: “And let …