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.
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 …
In the Bible, the Sadducees were another influential religious group during the time of Jesus. Like the Pharisees, they were one of the Jewish sects or parties that existed in the first century AD. However, the Sadducees differed from the Pharisees in terms of their beliefs, …
John the Baptist, also known as John the Baptizer, is a significant figure in the New Testament of the Bible. He is considered a prophet and a forerunner to Jesus Christ, preparing the way for His ministry. The primary accounts of John’s life and ministry are …
Faith in God Amid Troubled Times One Sentence Memory Line Habakkuk teaches that the righteous must trust God’s justice and sovereignty even when His ways seem confusing and His timing delayed. Historical Setting Habakkuk ministered during the late seventh century B.C., at a moment when Judah …
Below are a few Bible verses about betrayal: Psalm 41:9 (NIV) – “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.” Matthew 26:14-16 (NIV) – “Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and …
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 …
In Acts 17:18, the Stoics and Epicureans were two philosophical schools that the apostle Paul encountered during his visit to Athens. Here’s a brief description of each: 1. Stoics: The Stoics were followers of the philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium around the 3rd century BCE. …
The Samaritans were a distinct religious and ethnic group that emerged in the region of Samaria, which was located between Judea and Galilee in ancient Israel. The origins of the Samaritans can be traced back to the Assyrian conquest of the northern kingdom of Israel in …
The 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ: List, Meaning, Authority, and Impact The 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ were individuals chosen by Jesus to be His closest disciples and authoritative witnesses to His teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Their calling was not casual association but divine appointment. …
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 …