How the Holy Bible Is Taught in the AME Church

Understanding how Scripture shapes faith is central to grasping the holy bible in AME teaching, especially for new and growing members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. From its earliest formation, the AME Church has treated the Bible not as a distant text, but as a living guide for worship, discipline, and daily Christian life.

In Members’ Class 102: A Manual for African Methodist Episcopal Church Members, Mary Venable Vaughn presents this approach with clarity, warmth, and structure, helping believers engage Scripture with confidence and purpose. They are not overwhelmed and uncertain about the book; instead, they welcome it with open arms and a warm heart.

This article explains how the Bible is taught within the AME tradition, drawing directly from the manual’s lessons, catechisms, and instructional design.

Scripture as the Foundation of AME Faith

The AME Church affirms the Bible as the complete and trustworthy source for salvation and Christian instruction. Members’ Class 102 teaches that both the Old and New Testaments work together to reveal God’s will, pointing believers toward redemption through Christ.

Importantly, Scripture is not presented as abstract theology. Instead, the Bible is introduced as a guide that shapes belief, behavior, worship, and service. This approach helps members see biblical teaching as relevant to real life, church participation, and personal growth. Then, the Bible becomes an essential part of spiritual growth and understanding.

How the Bible Is Introduced to Members

1. A Structured Learning Environment

Mary Venable Vaughn designed the manual to guide learners step by step. Each session or meeting builds upon the previous one, allowing members to grow in understanding without feeling swamped. Hence, the biblical teaching is paired with reflection questions and quizzes, which reinforce comprehension.

2. Plain Language for All Ages

Scripture concepts are explained in accessible and simple terms, especially useful for young kids and new members. This method allows youth, adults, and seniors to learn together, supporting unity across generations. It doesn’t have to be a hard task for them.

3. Scripture Paired with Church Practice

Biblical instruction is always connected to worship, sacraments, and Christian responsibility. This ensures learning moves beyond knowledge into faithful living. Later on, members integrate the learnings into their everyday lives. By living according to the ways of faith, people will feel closer to God’s grace and love.

The Catechism and Biblical Understanding

One of the strongest tools in the manual is the Catechism on Faith. Through a question-and-answer format, members explore key biblical truths such as justification, grace, repentance, and salvation.

This method encourages memorization and reflection while reinforcing doctrine rooted in Scripture. Moreover, it also ensures consistency across congregations, strengthening shared belief within the connectional church.

Through this process, members develop confidence in interpreting Scripture within the AME theological tradition, aligning belief with practice.

Teaching the Old and New Testaments Together

The manual explains that the Old Testament prepares the way for Christ, while the New Testament fulfills God’s promise of salvation. Additionally, moral teachings remain relevant, while ceremonial laws are understood within a historical context.

This balanced view helps members respect the full biblical narrative. And it also supports faithful interpretation without confusion or division.

Within the Holy Biblein AME teaching, Scripture is never isolated. Each passage is understood through prayer, community learning, and church tradition. People come together to comprehend the message of the Scriptures based on their faith.

How Scripture Shapes AME Worship

1. Preaching Rooted in the Word

Sermons in the AME Church center on Scripture. And so, pastors draw directly from biblical texts, connecting them to present-day concerns. There is no gap in understanding the state of society through this method.

2. Liturgical Seasons and Scripture

The manual explains how biblical readings guide seasons such as Advent and Holy Communion. As a result, this rhythm keeps Scripture at the heart of worship year-round. The church is updated with the yearly activities that matter to the community.

3. Music and the Hymnal

Hymns reinforce biblical messages. Singing Scripture helps embed God’s Word in memory and shared experience. Many churchgoers take time to listen to music and sing the songs. This simple gesture shows genuine affection and appreciation for God.

Five Core Ways the Bible Is Taught in the AME Church

Choosing to help and being compassionate | Image Source: Freepik

1. Through Systematic Instruction

Bible teaching in the AME Church follows an organized structure. Members learn foundational truths first, then build toward deeper understanding. This progression supports confidence and spiritual maturity. Additionally, it also ensures no essential doctrine is overlooked. As a result, learners grow steadily in knowledge and faith.

2. Through Catechism and Repetition

Repetition strengthens understanding for learners. Catechism questions reinforce Scripture-based beliefs through consistent review. Therefore, this approach benefits learners at every stage of faith. Over time, biblical truths become internalized and practiced naturally.

3. Through Worship and Sacraments

Scripture shapes worship practices such as Holy Communion and Baptism. These acts are grounded in biblical instruction and not in tradition alone. So, members learn why these practices matter and how Scripture supports them. This deepens reverence and participation in the activity.

4. Through Community Learning

Bible study occurs in classes, conferences, and group settings. By learning together, it strengthens unity and shared understanding among peers. Members support one another through discussion and reflection. This communal approach reflects AME values of connection and service.

5. Through Application to Daily Life

The Bible is taught as a guide for conduct, service, and compassion. Scripture teaching shows lessons about forgiveness, stewardship, and Christian responsibility. This focus encourages faithful action beyond church walls. As a result, Scripture becomes a lived experience.

Why This Teaching Approach Matters Today

The AME Church’s approach meets modern needs while honoring tradition. By teaching Scripture clearly and consistently, the church strengthens discipleship and unity. Over time, this connection becomes the binding foundation that keeps people together.

Moreover, adults engaged in religious education or activities find happiness within their group while honoring God. The level of connection is worthwhile and heartwarming for members.

Growing in Faith with AME Church

Studying the Bible strengthens faith, unity, and purpose. If you are new to the AME Church or want a deeper and more profound understanding, Members’ Class 102 offers a trusted path forward.

So, read it carefully and study it prayerfully. Use it to grow as a disciple and servant in the loving eyes of God. Through structured teaching and faithful practice, the Word of God continues to shape the life of the AME Church. If you want a copy of this book, grab a copy right now!