Apostolic Life in the 21st Century

Why do we need more churches in North America? The United Pentecostal Church International currently has more than 5,000 congregations in the United States and Canada. Is there really a need for more? On the eve of the annual UPCI North American Missions Launch Conference for church planters, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the importance of church planting and why we need more UPCI churches, especially in heavily populated regions. He shares his own experiences as a church planter in Austin, T...

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

The Pentecostal Holiness movement emphasizes the importance of modesty, often referencing 1 Timothy 2:9-10 as a guiding scripture passage. But in a world where fashion, culture, and societal norms are constantly evolving, how should 21st century Christians interpret these verses? Dr. David K. Bernard examines biblical teaching on modesty and explains why believers should display this scriptural principle in their personal lives. See Dr. Bernard's books In Search of Holiness and Practical Hol...

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

Many Christians, including Pentecostals, speak about “spiritual warfare,” but what does that phrase really mean? Dr. David K. Bernard provides a clear, biblical perspective on spiritual warfare and what it looks like in the life of a believer. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred pod...

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

Is it wrong to use the name Jesus when we pray? Some claim we should only call our Lord by His Hebrew name Yeshua and that the English name Jesus has pagan origins—even alleging it means “the pig.” Dr. David K. Bernard examines the biblical and historical merits of this argument and the proper use of the name of Jesus in Christian worship and devotion. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent o...

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

A podcast listener from outside North America shares a powerful and unusual testimony. Before coming to Christ, he was part of a group designated as a terrorist organization. Now, as a born-again believer, he wrestles with overwhelming shame, regret, and torment over his past sins. He asks: Is this punishment from God? Or are these attacks from the enemy? He knows Scripture declares that his sins are forgiven, but the weight of his past still haunts him. Many Christians face similar struggl...

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

Who were the "Nephilim" in Genesis 6:4, and how should we make sense of the “sons of God” having children with the “daughters of humans," as this verse states? Dr. David K. Bernard examines this frequently debated Bible passage and offers the most plausible interpretation based on the entirety of Scripture. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy this podcast, leav...

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

Dr. David K. Bernard shares biblical wisdom regarding what Apostolic Pentecostal singles should look for in a spouse. Dr. Bernard highlights the characteristics that make for a strong, lasting, Christian marriage. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreci...

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

Dr. David K. Bernard discusses whether it’s OK for Christians to listen to secular music. He offers biblical insights and practical advice on how Apostolic Pentecostals should approach this question. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when yo...

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025

David K. Bernard clarifies what it means for a local church to be affiliated with the United Pentecostal Church International. Does affiliation give the UPCI control over a church's pastor or property? What about voting membership and adherence to the UPCI Articles of Faith? Hear the answers to these important questions and learn about the benefits and process of becoming an affiliated UPCI church.Check out the following resources for more on this topic:The Apostolic Church in the Twenty-Firs...

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

Dr. David K. Bernard discusses the importance of multicultural ministry in a time of political, cultural, ethnic, and racial division. Dr. Bernard also reviews the United Pentecostal Church International's efforts to take the gospel to every culture in North America.In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. Bernard references the following resources:• UPCI.org/stats• UPCI.org/statements-archive• UPCI.org/global-councilIf you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a ...

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

Dr. David K. Bernard discusses the biblical foundation and growing popularity of small group ministry.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025

If eternal salvation is a personal matter between an individual and God, why should believers bother with being part of a local church? Dr. David K. Bernard responds to this frequently asked question by explaining why all Christians should be faithful and active members of a local church assembly.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star...

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2025

Dr. David K. Bernard shares practical advice on how leaders can get things done during the busiest seasons of life and ministry. Dr. Bernard's advice and insights are applicable to any leader who wants to be efficient and effective in the coming year.For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Leadership in the Twenty-First Century, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-s...

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2024

Dr. David K. Bernard shares stories from his travels as an itinerant missionary and general superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church International. From growing up in Korea as the son of missionary parents to preaching behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, Dr. Bernard looks back at a few of the more adventurous moments of his life and ministry. For more travel stories, see Dr. Bernard's book To the Ends of the Earth, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code...

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2024

Popular psychics, tarot card readers, and astrologers have amassed large followings on social media and elsewhere. Does the Bible say anything about these activities? Is this dabbling in the occult or just harmless fun? Dr. David K. Bernard responds.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred...

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2024

Where do dinosaurs fit in the creation narrative of Genesis 1-2? Dr. David K. Bernard reviews the possibilities that have been put forward by believing scientists and scholars. If you or someone you know has ever questioned how to reconcile the fossil record with Scripture, this episode is for you.For more on this topic, Dr. Bernard recommends the following resources:Anchor Points by Dr. David K. BernardTheistic Evolution by J. P. Moreland et al, eds.Seven Days that Divide the World by J...

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2024

Revelation 20:11-15 describes what is often referred to as the "Great White Throne Judgement." Dr. David K. Bernard explains what the Bible says about this prophetic event and the eternal fate of those who will be present.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also a...

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2024

In 1 Corinthians 12:9, Paul lists faith as one of the gifts of the Spirit. In this podcast episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the difference between the "gift of faith" and the faith that is a prerequisite for salvation.For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Gifts, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast ...

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2024

The Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles in the early 20th century gave birth to the modern Pentecostal and Charismatic movements. Dr. David K. Bernard explains what happened at Azusa Street and how those events have shaped the current religious landscape.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Search "A History of Christian Doctrine" at PentecostalPublishing.com to access Dr. Bernard's three-volume set on that topic. Enter promo code DKB10 at che...

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2024

Dr. David K. Bernard explains why Pentecostals believe in miracles and emphasize the miraculous in their prayers and preaching. He also shares accounts of miracles he has witnessed in his own life and ministry.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it...

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2024

In this US presidential election special episode, Dr. David K. Bernard discusses a Christian's civic responsibilities, including proper stewardship of the right to vote and how believers should respond to election outcomes.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also ...

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2024

Are there theological similarities between modern Oneness Pentecostalism and the so-called "modalism" of early church history? In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. David K. Bernard compares what is known about modalism in the early church with modern Oneness Pentecostalism.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review o...

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2024

In Ephesians 2:8-9, Paul wrote, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.” Some Christians say these verses prove that practices such as baptism cannot be necessary for salvation because they are “works." Dr. David K. Bernard refutes this argument with an explanation of the biblical understanding of grace and faith.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. E...

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2024

If Jesus is God, why did He pray? Jesus' prayers in the Gospels, particularly in John 17, would seem to present a conundrum for Oneness Pentecostals due to their insistence that there is no separation of persons in the Godhead. Not surprisingly, this is one of the most frequently cited objections by Oneness critics. Dr. David K. Bernard answers this important question regarding the identity and nature of Jesus Christ.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of publis...

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2024

Did Paul say Christians shouldn't speak in tongues during church services? Some critics of Pentecostalism make this claim, citing 1 Corinthians 14:23. Dr. David K. Bernard responds to this assertion with a biblical defense of speaking in tongues during corporate worship.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2024

Dr. David K. Bernard shares his perspective on the UPCI's annual General Conference, which will be held this week in Long Beach, California. Dr. Bernard discusses his conference schedule and responsibilities, what he does to prepare, and how he unwinds once the event is over.You can shop Dr. Bernard's catalog of published books at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a revie...

Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2024

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gave us a model prayer which has come to be known as “The Lord’s Prayer.” How do we apply Jesus’ teaching to our own prayers? Dr. David K. Bernard tackles this question in this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century.For more information on this and other topics covered in previous episodes, visit PentecostalPublishing.com. Use the promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a rev...

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2024

The Scriptures describe an evil leader known as the Antichrist who will arise in the end times to rule the world and oppose God's people. Dr. David K. Bernard reviews what the Bible says about the Antichrist and the signs that will accompany his rise to power.Shop Dr. Bernard's catalog of published books at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred ...

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2024

Was the Son of God involved in the creation of the world? How do Oneness Pentecostals explain Hebrews 1:1-2, which states, "God ... has in these last days spoken to us by His Son ... through whom also He made the worlds" (NKJV)? Dr. David K. Bernard examines this passage and explains how it fits the Oneness view of Jesus Christ.You can shop Dr. Bernard's entire catalog of published books at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If...

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2024

Does the Bible support the theory of the existence of multiple universes, often referred to as the "multiverse"? Dr. David K. Bernard examines this idea from a scriptural perspective and shares his thoughts on its ramifications for biblical apologetics.For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Anchor Points, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter the promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iT...

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2024

In 1 Corinthians 12:7-10, the apostle Paul includes the "word of wisdom" in his list of gifts imparted by the Holy Spirit. Dr. David K. Bernard explains what the word of wisdom is, how it operates, and how it can benefit believers, particularly those who serve in leadership roles.For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Gifts, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter the promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-...

Transcribed - Published: 26 August 2024

What do a notable Swiss Reformed theologian from the mid-twentieth century and Oneness Pentecostals have in common? More than you might think. Dr. David K. Bernard reviews what Karl Barth had to say about the nature of the Godhead and the plan of salvation, and Barth's significance for Oneness Pentecostal theology.For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's books Anchor Points and A History of Christian Doctrine: Volume 3.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTune...

Transcribed - Published: 19 August 2024

The Bible offers descriptions of Hell that seem contradictory at first glance. For instance, Jesus described Hell both as a place of "outer darkness" (Matthew 8:12, 22:13, 25:30) and as a "furnace of fire" (Matthew 13:42, 50). Dr. David K. Bernard considers these scriptural descriptions and what they tell us about the place we call Hell.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic ...

Transcribed - Published: 12 August 2024

Is it biblically acceptable for Christian couples to use in vitro fertilization (IVF) if they are unable to conceive children naturally? Some Christian groups object to the practice because it can lead to the destruction of leftover human embryos. Dr. David K. Bernard discusses the United Pentecostal Church International's pro-life stance and how it applies to the practice of in vitro fertilization.Visit UPCI.org/statements-archive to access official UPCI position papers on various subjects.I...

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2024

Early Pentecostals taught that believers should not be part of so-called "secret societies" such as the Freemasons where members are bound by an oath. Dr. David K. Bernard explains the biblical rationale behind this teaching and why a Christian's greatest loyalty should be to God's kingdom.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2024

In John 14:23, Jesus said, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him" (NKJV). If there is only one God, why does Jesus use the plural pronouns "we" and "our" in this verse? Dr. David K. Bernard responds with an examination of John 14.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century...

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2024

Paul wrote that it is God's will for believers to experience sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3). What is sanctification, and how does it happen? Dr. David K. Bernard explains what sanctification is and how it works in the life of a Christian. Dr. Bernard also reviews how Christians, and especially Pentecostals, have thought about sanctification and holiness throughout church history.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform...

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2024

In Revelation 20, John described a vision of a one thousand-year period known as the millennial kingdom during which Satan is bound and believers live and rule on earth with Jesus Christ. Dr. David K. Bernard explains the significance of this one thousand-year period and how it fits into the overall timeline of Scripture.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st...

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2024

Dr. David K. Bernard explains why it is important for Apostolic Pentecostals to engage in the political arena and how ordinary believers can make a difference politically without alienating those they are trying to reach with the gospel.You can learn more about the work of the National Apostolic Christian Leadership Conference at naclc.org.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostol...

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2024

How should Christians respond to unwanted thoughts that are contrary to God's Word such as hatred, profanity, or lust? In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard outlines what we can do when evil thoughts enter our minds and how we can deter them in the future.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2024

Some critics argue that Oneness Pentecostalism is a modern religious concoction seasoned with a dash of ancient heresy. Dr. David K. Bernard refutes this claim by citing evidence of key Oneness Pentecostal doctrines both in the New Testament and throughout church history.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2024

In the Old Testament, God commands His people to commit what could be described as mass genocide. For instance, in 1 Samuel 15:3, God orders King Saul to attack Amalek and spare nothing within the city, including women, children, and livestock. Dr. David K. Bernard explains how these incidents fit within the larger framework of Scripture, including the more loving and gentler depiction of God in the New Testament.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or yo...

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2024

Books such as Enoch, the Gospel of Thomas, the Epistle of Barnabas, and many others were composed at roughly the same time as the books in our Bible, but why were they not included as part of the "canon" that we know today? In this week's episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains why our modern Bible includes only 66 books, who decided what to include, and why other books were left out. We previously recorded an episode titled “Should Apostolics Read the Apocrypha?” for those who are intere...

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2024

In this week's episode, Dr. David K. Bernard discusses whether Christians should boycott companies with policies that contradict a biblical worldview and if they have an obligation to do so. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2024

When should someone consider being rebaptized? Is it ever necessary for someone who was previously baptized in Jesus’ name to be baptized in Jesus’ name again? Dr. David K. Bernard answers this important question that has puzzled some believers.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2024

Debates about the nature of the Godhead often reference the opening verses of the Gospel of John. In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the significance of this passage and what the apostle John intended to communicate to his readers, including us.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2024

In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul lists nine gifts imparted by the Holy Spirit. Notably, in verse 10, he includes "different kinds of tongues" and "the interpretation of tongues.” In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the significance of these gifts and offers insight into how modern believers can engage with them. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st...

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2024

Is it a sin for Christians to swear an oath when entering certain professions or when called upon to testify in court? Dr. David K. Bernard looks at Jesus' teaching regarding oaths in Matthew 5:33-37 and how His words apply to Christians living in the modern world.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2024

Is every human a sinner from the moment of conception? Experience certainly shows that we do not need anyone to teach us how to sin - humans seem to gravitate toward sin naturally. Join Dr. David K. Bernard as he looks at what the Bible says about sin, the spiritual condition of humanity, and the remedy for our greatest need.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the ...

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2024

In the Gospels, Jesus tells a rich young nobleman to sell all of his personal possessions and give the proceeds to the poor, promising, "you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me” (Matthew 19:21, NKJV). Jesus then told His disciples, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God” (19:24, NKJV).Should we interpret this passage to mean that money and possessions will keep us out of Heaven? Dr. David K. Bernard looks at wh...

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2024