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 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. …
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 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 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 …
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 …
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 …
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 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 …
Rebuilding the People of God One Sentence Memory Line The Book of Nehemiah records how God used a faithful leader to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, restore covenant faithfulness, and renew the spiritual life of His people after exile. Historical Setting Nehemiah takes place during the Persian period …
