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.
Jewish sects of the 1st Century AD
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 …
Funerals (Verses About)
Bible verses that are often used at funerals to provide comfort and hope to those in mourning: Psalm 23:1-4 (The Lord is my shepherd…) Psalm 46:1-2 (God is our refuge and strength…) Psalm 73:26 (My flesh and my heart may fail…) John 14:1-3 (Let not your …
Silas
Silas, also known as Silvanus, was a prominent figure in the New Testament of the Bible. He was a dedicated companion and co-worker of the apostle Paul, actively participating in Paul’s missionary journeys and ministry efforts. Silas is mentioned in several passages in the New Testament, …
People Mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew
The Gospel of Matthew mentions over 70 individuals, including Jesus Christ, His genealogical ancestors like Abraham and David, His earthly parents Mary and Joseph, prophets such as Isaiah, apostles like Peter and James, and key political figures including Herod and Pontius Pilate. This complete list helps readers trace Jesus’ lineage, understand His early life, and identify all those involved in His ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection.
Peter (Apostle)
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 …
Bible Verses About God Directing the Path of Believers
All below verses are provided from the English Standard Version (ESV): Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Psalm 23:3: He …
Happiness (Verses About)
Below, you will find 25 verses from the Bible that speak about happiness. Please note: while there is a difference, the use of the word “joy” is similar to happiness. “Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your …
Mary (Mother of Jesus)
Mary, the mother of Jesus, holds a significant place in the New Testament (NT) as a central figure in the story of Jesus’ birth and early life. While the NT doesn’t provide an extensive biography of Mary, it does offer several key passages that provide insight …
Stephen (Early Church Deacon)
Stephen was a significant figure in the early Christian church, mentioned in the New Testament. He is best known for being the first Christian martyr, and his story is recorded in the book of Acts. Here is a biography of Stephen with relevant scriptural citations: 1. …