Biblical Overview and Reference
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.
What You Will Find Here
- Guidance for interpreting Scripture in its historical, cultural, and literary context
- Background material that clarifies and illuminates biblical passages
- Structured summaries of the Old and New Testaments
- Topical Scripture collections for teaching, preaching, and study
Scriptural Structure
- Summary of the Old Testament
- Old Testament People, Topics, and Facts
- Old Testament Festivals and Feasts
- Summary of the New Testament
- New Testament People, Topics, and Facts
- Bible Verses About
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.
Book of Ezra: A Ministerial Summary
Ezra: The Return and Restoration of God’s People One Sentence Memory Line The book of Ezra records how God faithfully restored His people from exile, rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem, and renewed covenant obedience through the leadership of Ezra the scribe. Historical Setting The events of …
Book of Hosea: A Ministerial Summary
Covenant Love in the Face of Unfaithfulness One Sentence Memory Line Hosea reveals that God’s covenant love persists even when His people repeatedly break faith, calling them to repentance and restoration. Historical Setting The book of Hosea emerges during the eighth century B.C., a turbulent period …
Barnabas: Son of Encouragement and Early Church Builder
Memory Line: Barnabas stands as the bridge builder of the early Church, a man whose encouragement, discernment, and generosity advanced the gospel and strengthened its messengers. Identity and Background Name and Meaning: The name Barnabas means “son of encouragement” or “son of consolation,” a title given …
Book of Malachi: A Ministerial Summary
A Final Call to Covenant Faithfulness One Sentence Memory Line Malachi confronts spiritual complacency and calls God’s people back to covenant faithfulness while pointing forward to the coming messenger who prepares the way of the Lord. Historical Setting Malachi speaks into the quiet disappointment of post-exilic …