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.
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, …
Here are some Bible verses about patience: 1. James 1:2-4: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be …
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 …
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 …
Below are Bible verses that touch on theological concepts: 1. John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” 2. John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, …
One Sentence Memory Line Joel calls God’s people to repentance in light of present judgment and future restoration, revealing that the Day of the Lord brings both devastation and hope. Historical Setting The historical setting of Joel remains debated, largely because the book provides minimal explicit …
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 …
One Sentence Memory Line Ezekiel reveals the holiness of God in judgment and restoration, calling a rebellious people to recognize that the Lord alone is God. Historical Setting The book of Ezekiel emerges from one of the most disorienting seasons in Israel’s history, the Babylonian exile. …
Below are Bible verses about witchcraft: 1. Exodus 22:18: “Do not allow a sorceress to live.” 2. Deuteronomy 18:10-12: “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or …
