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.
Book of Isaiah: A Ministerial Summary
One Sentence Memory Line Isaiah proclaims God’s holiness, judges human sin, and reveals the coming Servant King who brings salvation to Israel and the nations. Historical Setting The book of Isaiah emerges from the turbulent political and spiritual climate of the eighth century B.C., a period …
Barnabas: Son of Encouragement and Early Church Builder
Memory Line: Barnabas stands as the bridge builder of the early Church, a man whose encouragement, discernment, and generosity advanced the gospel and strengthened its messengers. Identity and Background Name and Meaning: The name Barnabas means “son of encouragement” or “son of consolation,” a title given …
Book of Esther: A Ministerial Summary
God’s Hidden Providence One Sentence Memory Line God sovereignly preserves His covenant people through hidden providence as a Jewish queen risks her life to thwart a genocidal plot within the Persian Empire. Historical Setting The events of Esther occur during the Persian period after the Babylonian …
Feast of Unleavened Bread
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 …
Greed (Verses About)
Below are Bible verses about greed: 1. Luke 12:15: “Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’” 2. 1 Timothy 6:10: “For the love of money is a root …
Book of Leviticus: A Ministerial Summary
The Book of Leviticus: Holiness Before the Lord One Sentence Memory Line Leviticus teaches Israel how a holy God makes it possible for a sinful people to live in His presence through sacrifice, priesthood, and covenant obedience. Key Insight: The central concern of Leviticus is holiness. …
Knowledge (Verses About)
Below are Bible verses about knowledge: 1. Proverbs 2:3-6: “Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the …
Book of Jonah: A Ministerial Summary
The Book of Jonah: Mercy Beyond Boundaries One Sentence Memory Line God’s sovereign mercy extends beyond Israel, confronting both rebellious sinners and reluctant servants with His compassionate purpose. Historical Setting The book of Jonah is set during the eighth century BC, a period marked by the …