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 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 …
Mark, also known as John Mark, was an important figure in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. He is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of Mark, one of the four canonical Gospels, and is closely associated with the apostle Peter …
One Sentence Memory Line Jeremiah proclaims God’s righteous judgment on persistent covenant unfaithfulness while revealing a coming new covenant grounded in internal transformation and enduring hope. Historical Setting The ministry of Jeremiah unfolds during one of the most volatile periods in Judah’s history, spanning roughly 627 …
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 …
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. …
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 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 …
Below are Bible verses which talk about money: 1. Matthew 6:24: “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” …
