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.
Here are 12 Bible verses that you can use to bless and encourage others: 1. Numbers 6:24-26: “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and …
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 …
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 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 …
Covenant Love in the Face of Unfaithfulness One Sentence Memory Line Hosea reveals that God’s covenant love persists even when His people repeatedly break faith, calling them to repentance and restoration. Historical Setting The book of Hosea emerges during the eighth century B.C., a turbulent period …
Ezra: The Return and Restoration of God’s People One Sentence Memory Line The book of Ezra records how God faithfully restored His people from exile, rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem, and renewed covenant obedience through the leadership of Ezra the scribe. Historical Setting The events of …
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 …
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 …
Below are Bible verses about anger: 1. Ephesians 4:26-27: “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” 2. Proverbs 14:29: “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one …
