Biblical Overview and Reference
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.
What You Will Find Here
- Guidance for interpreting Scripture in its historical, cultural, and literary context
- Background material that clarifies and illuminates biblical passages
- Structured summaries of the Old and New Testaments
- Topical Scripture collections for teaching, preaching, and study
Scriptural Structure
- Summary of the Old Testament
- Old Testament People, Topics, and Facts
- Old Testament Festivals and Feasts
- Summary of the New Testament
- New Testament People, Topics, and Facts
- Bible Verses About
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.
Bargaining (Verses About)
While the Bible doesn’t explicitly address the concept of bargaining in the way we might think of it in modern terms, there are verses that touch upon principles related to negotiation, fair dealings, and seeking wisdom in decision-making. Here are 25 Bible verses from both the …
Zealot Political Movement
The Zealots were a political and religious movement during the time of the New Testament. They were known for their fervent nationalism and opposition to Roman rule over Judea and Galilee. Here are some scriptural citations that may provide insights into the Zealot movement: 1. Judas …
Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene is a prominent figure in the New Testament and plays a significant role in the life of Jesus Christ. Though much of her personal background remains a mystery, the biblical accounts provide valuable insights into her life and relationship with Jesus. Here is a …
All the Kings of Israel and Judah
Below you will find a list of all the Kings of Israel and Judah from the Old Testament in chronological order, along with relevant scriptural citations: Kings of Israel: 1. Saul (reigned around 1020-1000 BC) – 1 Samuel 10:1, 1 Samuel 13:1-2 2. David (reigned …
Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot)
The Festival or Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot or the Feast of Booths, is a significant festival observed in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is one of the three major pilgrimage festivals of ancient Israel, along with Passover and Shavuot (Feast of …
Book of Zephaniah: A Ministerial Summary
Judgment, Purification, and Hope Restored One Sentence Memory Line The book of Zephaniah proclaims the coming Day of the Lord as both devastating judgment and gracious restoration, calling God’s people to humble repentance and confident hope in His saving presence. Historical Setting Zephaniah ministered during the …
Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah)
The Festival or Feast of Trumpets, also known as Rosh Hashanah, is one of the major festivals or holy convocations mentioned in the Old Testament. It is described in the book of Leviticus (Leviticus 23:23-25) and other related passages. Here is an overview of the Feast …
Summary of Prophets of the Old Testament
Below is a summary of some of the more well known prophets of the Old Testament, along with scriptural citations for each. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, but it covers some of the key figures and their corresponding biblical references: 1. …
The Pharisees
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, …