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.
A Ministerial Guide to Sacred Grief One Sentence Memory Line Lamentations teaches ministers how to grieve faithfully before God, holding sorrow and hope together under divine judgment and covenant mercy. Historical Setting The book of Lamentations emerges from the ashes of Jerusalem’s destruction in 586 BC …
The Book of Exodus: God’s Redemption and Covenant One Sentence Memory Line The book of Exodus reveals how God redeems His people from bondage, establishes His covenant with them, and forms Israel into a nation devoted to His worship and purposes. Historical Setting Exodus describes events …
The Herodians were a Jewish political faction or sect during the first century AD. They were named after Herod the Great, the ruler of Judea under Roman authority, and later his descendants who continued to govern various regions within Judea. The Herodians were known for their …
One Sentence Memory Line Ezekiel reveals the holiness of God in judgment and restoration, calling a rebellious people to recognize that the Lord alone is God. Historical Setting The book of Ezekiel emerges from one of the most disorienting seasons in Israel’s history, the Babylonian exile. …
The Book of Jonah: Mercy Beyond Boundaries One Sentence Memory Line God’s sovereign mercy extends beyond Israel, confronting both rebellious sinners and reluctant servants with His compassionate purpose. Historical Setting The book of Jonah is set during the eighth century BC, a period marked by the …
The Festival or Feast of Unleavened Bread in the Old Testament is closely associated with the Passover and is one of the important observances in the Hebrew calendar. It is described in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Exodus (Exodus 12:14-20, Exodus 23:15, and …
Teaching Guide One Sentence Memory Line The Song of Solomon celebrates the beauty of covenant love between a husband and wife while also illustrating the deeper spiritual pattern of faithful love that ultimately reflects God’s relationship with His people. Historical Setting The Song of Solomon, also …
Wisdom for Life Under God One Sentence Memory Line The Book of Proverbs teaches that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and guides God’s people to live skillfully, righteously, and prudently in every area of life. Historical Setting The Book of Proverbs emerged …
Obadiah: Judgment on Pride, Hope for Zion One Sentence Memory Line God opposes prideful nations, especially those who betray His people, and promises final restoration and victory to His covenant community. Historical Setting The book of Obadiah emerges from a moment of national humiliation for Judah, …
Rebuilding What God Restores One Sentence Memory Line Haggai calls God’s people to reorder their priorities, rebuild His house, and trust that obedience restores both worship and blessing. Historical Setting The Book of Haggai is set in the post-exilic period around 520 B.C., during the reign …