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.
Luke, often referred to as Saint Luke or Luke the Evangelist, is one of the prominent figures in the New Testament. He is renowned for being the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. Not much is known about his early …
Name(s): Peter, Apostle, Simon Peter (also known as Cephas) * Birth: Around the early 1st century * Death: Tradition holds that he was martyred in Rome, possibly crucified upside down during the reign of Emperor Nero, around 64-67 AD. * Occupation: Fisherman 1. Call to Discipleship …
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 …
The Festival or Feast of Dedication, also known as Hanukkah or Chanukah, is not mentioned in the Old Testament. It is a Jewish holiday that originated after the time period covered by the Old Testament. The events associated with Hanukkah occurred during the intertestamental period, between …
Baby dedications are a special and meaningful way for parents to dedicate their child to God and seek His blessings. Here are some Bible verses that are commonly chosen for such occasions: Psalm 127:3: “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the …
Caiaphas stands as one of the most theologically significant figures in the passion narrative, though his role is often understood only in moral or historical terms. He functioned as high priest during the earthly ministry of Jesus, occupying a position of religious authority that carried both …
Herod the Great was a prominent figure mentioned in the New Testament, known for his role in the birth narrative of Jesus Christ. He was a king of Judea and ruled from 37 BC until his death in 4 BC. Below is a biography of Herod …
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: …
