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 …
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, …
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, …
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 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 …
The Festival or Day of Atonement, also known as Yom Kippur, is a significant observance in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is considered the most important day in the Jewish calendar and falls on the tenth day of the month of Tishrei, according to …
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 …
The Festival or Feast of Unleavened Bread in the Old Testament is closely associated with the Passover and is one of the important observances in the Hebrew calendar. It is described in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Exodus (Exodus 12:14-20, Exodus 23:15, and …
In the celebration of the Festival or Feast of Passover in the Old Testament, the mention of “Elijah” is connected to a specific ritual or tradition associated with the Passover Seder meal, particularly during the closing moments of the meal. The tradition is rooted in the …
In the Old Testament, the Festival or Feast of the Passover is described in the Book of Exodus (Exodus 12:1-28) and other related passages. Here is an overview of the key elements of the Passover as outlined in the Old Testament: 1. The Origin and Purpose: …