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 Acts: The Gospel Expands Through the Early Church One Sentence Memory Line The Book of Acts records how the risen Christ continued His work through the Holy Spirit as the gospel spread from Jerusalem to the nations through the witness of the early …
One Sentence Memory Line Philippians teaches that enduring joy and steadfast unity flow from a Christ centered life that humbly follows the example of Jesus in service, suffering, and gospel mission. Historical Setting The Epistle to the Philippians was written by the Apostle Paul while he …
The New Testament is the second part of the Christian Bible and is composed of 27 books. Here is a list of the books of the New Testament in the traditional order: 1. Matthew 2. Mark 3. Luke 4. John 5. Acts 6. Romans 7. 1 …
1, 2, and 3 John: Truth, Love, and Faithful Fellowship One Sentence Memory Line The letters of 1, 2, and 3 John call believers to walk in truth and love while guarding the church from false teaching about the person of Jesus Christ. Historical Setting The …
The Epistle to the Romans One Sentence Memory Line Romans explains how God justifies sinners by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and forms a new covenant people who live transformed lives through the power of the Holy Spirit. Historical Setting The Epistle to the Romans …
People Mentioned in the Gospel of Mark Name Description Reference Jesus Christ Proclaimed as the Son of God and central figure of the Gospel. Mark 1:1 John the Baptist Prophet who baptized Jesus and prepared His way. Mark 1:4 Herod Antipas Tetrarch who beheaded John the …
People Mentioned in the Gospel of Luke Key Figures in Luke’s Gospel, with Character List and Bible Verses Name Reference Description Jesus Christ Luke 1:31 The Savior and central figure of the New Testament narrative. Zechariah Luke 1:5 Priest and father of John the Baptist. Elizabeth …
Bartimaeus sees Jesus more clearly than the religious leaders, even though he lacks physical sight. His healing signifies not only the restoration of vision but also the unveiling of truth. It is not human perception but divine illumination that opens the eyes of faith.
By Michael Mooney Exec. Elder The Kingdom of God operates on principles that often seem upside-down compared to worldly wisdom. Jesus and the New Testament writers repeatedly taught paradoxical truths that appear contradictory yet reveal profound spiritual realities. In God’s economy, losing leads to gain, weakness …
Bible verses for funerals help Christian ministers speak faithfully when grief makes words difficult to find. Families may want a familiar psalm, a passage about resurrection, or a reading that acknowledges their sorrow. The right selection depends on what the passage teaches and what the gathering …