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.
A Final Call to Covenant Faithfulness One Sentence Memory Line Malachi confronts spiritual complacency and calls God’s people back to covenant faithfulness while pointing forward to the coming messenger who prepares the way of the Lord. Historical Setting Malachi speaks into the quiet disappointment of post-exilic …
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. …
Judgment and Divine Justice One Sentence Memory Line Nahum declares that the Lord will decisively judge Nineveh, revealing His justice, sovereignty, and faithfulness to defend His people. Historical Setting The book of Nahum is set in the seventh century B.C., during the height of Assyrian dominance. …
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 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 …
The Book of Joshua One Sentence Memory Line The book of Joshua records how the Lord fulfilled His promise by bringing Israel into the land of Canaan and calling His people to courageous faith, covenant obedience, and faithful leadership. Historical Setting The events of Joshua take …
Rebuilding What God Restores One Sentence Memory Line Haggai calls God’s people to reorder their priorities, rebuild His house, and trust that obedience restores both worship and blessing. Historical Setting The Book of Haggai is set in the post-exilic period around 520 B.C., during the reign …
Below are Bible verses about love: 1. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record …
