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.
New Testament Bible verses about how believers are changed, using the God’s Word Translation (GW): Romans 12:2 (GW) “Don’t become like the people of this world. Instead, change the way you think. Then you will always be able to determine what God really wants—what is …
The Apostle Paul, also known as Saint Paul or Saul of Tarsus, was a prominent figure in the early Christian Church. His life and ministry are extensively documented in the New Testament of the Bible. Born in Tarsus, a city in modern-day Turkey, around 5 AD, …
The Ten Commandments, or Decalogue, serve as the cornerstone of the Mosaic Law, symbolizing God’s covenantal principles for His people. They are not merely rules but embody a theological framework for understanding divine-human and human-human relationships. Examining their implications and their sequential order reveals a …
The Zealots were a Jewish sect or political movement that emerged during the first century AD. They were known for their fervent nationalism and their opposition to Roman rule. The Zealots sought to resist and overthrow the Roman occupation of Judea, viewing it as a violation …
In the Old Testament, the Festival or Feast of the Passover is described in the Book of Exodus (Exodus 12:1-28) and other related passages. Here is an overview of the key elements of the Passover as outlined in the Old Testament: 1. The Origin and Purpose: …
Numbers 6:24-26 “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” Psalm 5:12 “For you bless the righteous, O Lord; you …
One Sentence Memory Line: Barabbas stands as a living illustration of substitution, the guilty released while the innocent Christ is condemned. Identity and Background The name Barabbas likely means “son of the father,” derived from Aramaic roots. This is not a small irony but a theological …
Bible verses that are often used at funerals to provide comfort and hope to those in mourning: Psalm 23:1-4 (The Lord is my shepherd…) Psalm 46:1-2 (God is our refuge and strength…) Psalm 73:26 (My flesh and my heart may fail…) John 14:1-3 (Let not your …
The Gospel of Matthew mentions over 70 individuals, including Jesus Christ, His genealogical ancestors like Abraham and David, His earthly parents Mary and Joseph, prophets such as Isaiah, apostles like Peter and James, and key political figures including Herod and Pontius Pilate. This complete list helps readers trace Jesus’ lineage, understand His early life, and identify all those involved in His ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection.
All below verses are provided from the English Standard Version (ESV): Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Psalm 23:3: He …