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 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. …
The Essenes were a Jewish sect that existed during the first century AD, primarily known from references in historical accounts and the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls. They were a distinct religious community that lived in various locations, including Qumran near the Dead Sea. The …
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 …
The account of Ruth and Boaz is a beautiful story of loyalty, redemption, and love found in the Old Testament book of Ruth. This book portrays the faithfulness of God and highlights the importance of kindness and compassion. Here is the narrative of Ruth and Boaz, …
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 …
Faith in God Amid Troubled Times One Sentence Memory Line Habakkuk teaches that the righteous must trust God’s justice and sovereignty even when His ways seem confusing and His timing delayed. Historical Setting Habakkuk ministered during the late seventh century B.C., at a moment when Judah …
1 and 2 Chronicles One Sentence Memory Line First and Second Chronicles retell Israel’s history to remind God’s people that faithful worship, covenant obedience, and devotion to the Lord remain the foundation of national and spiritual renewal. Historical Setting The books of Chronicles were written after …
Obadiah: Judgment on Pride, Hope for Zion One Sentence Memory Line God opposes prideful nations, especially those who betray His people, and promises final restoration and victory to His covenant community. Historical Setting The book of Obadiah emerges from a moment of national humiliation for Judah, …
The Book of Exodus: God’s Redemption and Covenant One Sentence Memory Line The book of Exodus reveals how God redeems His people from bondage, establishes His covenant with them, and forms Israel into a nation devoted to His worship and purposes. Historical Setting Exodus describes events …
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. …