Introduction to Our Doctrinal Bible Study Prepared by the late Pastor Donald A. Magaw
These lessons are derived from the years of study and work by my father, the late Rev. A. Donald Magaw with additional thoughts and comments added from my own studies and ministry. They deal with the basis for the doctrinal position of our church. These thoughts are not subject to debate…this is what and why we believe at the Port Monmouth Community Church.
As you study these notes, do so prayerfully and please do not just “read” through as you would a newspaper or novel, but check out the Scriptural references given in the text. Unless otherwise specified, the quotations are from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. As a note, there are many different translations and transliterations of God’s Word that are very good and can be used to clarify the meaning of some of the Old English words and phrases used in the KJV. Feel free to use whatever version you are comfortable using but do read all the references given in the studies.
Also, as you read the Scriptures, remember that the Bible never contradicts itself and that the interpretation of the Bible passages is dependent many times on other references in God’s Word.
The Bible was never meant to teach men science, but the Bible is scientifically correct. And so far, archeological groups trying to disprove the Bible have only succeeded in proving the Bible to be correct!
An additional comment: The Bible is very clear that in the last days there will be many false doctrines that will surface. Scripture reads “having the form of Godliness but denying the power thereof,” and we are further instructed “from such turn away.” There are several “denominations” that come to mind almost immediately (and this list is not all inclusive) Jehovah Witnesses—deny the Trinity; Christian Scientists—neither Christian nor science; The Unitarian Church—more of a social religion; Joel Olstein—never in any of his preaching or writings does he ever mention the shed blood of Christ (he is listed on the internet as one of the richest men in the US, question…how did he personally amass such a fortune?).
Also, beware of any religious broadcast that stresses the need for dollar donations for prayer. For example, there are several broadcasts that say if you want prayer, send in $10 and they will send you a prayer cloth…just send us your prayer requests and we will pray for you for free!
This is not to say that all broadcasts are bad, it just is to remind you that just because it is on TV, Radio or the Internet does not mean it is factual. Listen to what they have to say and judge their messages intelligently according to God’s Word.
God bless you as you study His Word,
Pastor Don Magaw