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.
In the first century AD, several Jewish sects or parties are mentioned in the Bible. Apart from the Pharisees and the Sadducees, the following groups are also referenced: 1. Essenes: The Essenes were a Jewish sect that lived in communal settings, such as the famous community …
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 …
The Ten Plagues of Egypt, as described in the Book of Exodus in the Bible, were a series of divine punishments brought upon Egypt by God through Moses. Here is a list of the plagues along with their corresponding scriptural citations: 1. Water Turned into …
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 …
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 …
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 …
Acceptance is an important theme in the Bible, emphasizing the acceptance of God’s love, grace, and acceptance of one another. Here are 25 Bible verses from both the Old and New Testaments that speak about acceptance: 1. Romans 15:7 – “Therefore welcome one another as …
Bible verses from both the Old and New Testaments that address the theme of denial: Old Testament: 1. Isaiah 29:13 (NIV): “The Lord says: ‘These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. …
In the Bible, the Pharisees were a prominent religious group during the time of Jesus. They were one of several Jewish sects or parties that existed in the first century AD. The Pharisees were known for their commitment to the interpretation and observance of Jewish law, …
