Apostolic Life in the 21st Century

What is the biblical role of an evangelist? Many Christians associate evangelists with traveling revival preachers who move from church to church preaching special services. While that model has been common in Pentecostal circles, is it the same role the apostle Paul described in Ephesians 4:11? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the New Testament ministry of the evangelist and explains why this calling remains essential to the church today. D...

Transcribed - Published: 22 June 2026

Daniel 7 records one of the most dramatic visions in Scripture. In it, the prophet Daniel sees the Ancient of Days seated on a heavenly throne while “one like the Son of Man” approaches Him and receives an everlasting kingdom. This passage raises an important theological question: Does this vision reveal two distinct divine persons, or is it portraying something else? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines Daniel 7:9-28 and addresses a common chal...

Transcribed - Published: 15 June 2026

What does it mean to “grieve the Holy Spirit,” and should Christians be concerned about it today? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines Paul's warning in Ephesians 4:30: “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” While many believers have heard this phrase throughout their lives, its meaning is often misunderstood. Looking at the broader context of Ephesians, Dr. Bernard explains how attitudes suc...

Transcribed - Published: 8 June 2026

What should a pastor do when a child sincerely wants to be baptized in Jesus’ name, but a parent refuses to give consent? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, UPCI General Superintendent Dr. David K. Bernard offers biblical and pastoral guidance for one of the most sensitive situations a church may face. Apostolic Pentecostals believe baptism is part of the biblical plan of salvation described in Acts 2:38, but pastors must also consider the God-given authority of parents, ...

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2026

Is war ever morally justified? Can Christians support military action while still following the teachings of Jesus? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines the historic doctrine of “just war” and explores what the Bible teaches about warfare, national defense, and the use of force. Prompted by current global conflicts and the reflection that often accompanies Memorial Day, this conversation addresses questions Christians have wrestled with for cent...

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2026

In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses an important question about divine healing and the gifts of the Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 12, the apostle Paul lists the “gifts of healing” (verse 9) among the spiritual gifts and makes it clear that not every believer operates in this gift (verse 30). Yet in Mark 16:18, Jesus said believers would lay hands on the sick and they would recover. Is healing a special ministry given only to certain individuals, or...

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

What does it really mean to be “called” to a ministry? In Pentecostal circles, pastors often testify that God specifically led them to a church, city, or ministry assignment. Congregations likewise take comfort in believing their pastor was divinely directed, not merely hired like someone applying for a job. But that raises an important question. After seeing a church advertise a pastoral opening on Facebook, a viewer asked: If ministry is truly a calling from God, is it appropriate to post p...

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2026

Should Apostolics pursue higher education, or does academic study put faith at risk? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses an important question facing many in the Apostolic movement. Should higher education be approached with caution, or is it essential to the future of the church? What is the proper perspective? Drawing from his own academic journey and decades of ministry leadership, Dr. Bernard makes a compelling case for the value of educat...

Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2026

Who was Tertullian—and why does he still matter to Christians today? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the life, writings, and lasting influence of one of the most significant figures in early church history. Frequently cited in discussions about the development of the doctrine of the Trinity, Tertullian’s ideas continue to shape theological conversations centuries later. Dr. Bernard examines who Tertullian was and the role he played in shapi...

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2026

With the Pope once again in the global spotlight, questions about his authority—and the authority of the church he leads—are drawing renewed attention. Both the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim an unbroken line of leadership stretching back to the apostles. According to this view, today’s bishops—and ultimately the Pope—stand in direct succession to the apostle Peter. But how strong is this claim? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. B...

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2026

Are there any “Heaven or Hell” rules Christians must follow in order to be saved? If so, what are they and how should we understand them? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to this frequently-asked question which often arises in discussions about holiness, not only among Oneness Pentecostals, but across conservative Christian communities. Dr. Bernard provides biblical insight into: The difference between living by faith and falling into legali...

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

Can We Really Do Greater Works than Jesus? Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. Bernard In John 14:12, Jesus made a remarkable promise: “He who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do.” But what did He mean? Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead, and demonstrated power over nature itself. How could believers possibly do “greater” works than these? In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard provides clear, biblical insight into t...

Transcribed - Published: 6 April 2026

Did Jesus Go Preach in Hell? What happened between Good Friday and Easter Sunday? Christians around the world pause each year to remember the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We commemorate His crucifixion on Good Friday and celebrate His resurrection on Easter Sunday—but what does the Bible say about the time in between? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines key passages such as Acts 2:27 and 1 Peter 3:19, which are often interpr...

Transcribed - Published: 30 March 2026

How to Pray with Spiritual Seekers Apostolics are rightly passionate about praying with those who are seeking the baptism of the Holy Spirit, but some approaches can become overly emotional or place unintended pressure on seekers. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard offers practical guidance for praying with others in a way that avoids manipulation, honors the work of the Spirit, and upholds sound doctrine. This episode provides valuable insights for pa...

Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2026

Is It OK for Christians to Sue? An Apostolic believer recently asked an important question: If a Christian is injured in an accident, is it wrong to seek compensation through legal action? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to a real-life situation involving an auto accident that resulted in injuries and property damage. The listener wondered whether forgiving the person responsible means they must also give up pursuing compensation for medica...

Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2026

What is the biblical relationship between the Father and the Son? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explains how Oneness Pentecostals understand this vital question. Drawing from his book The Oneness of God, he unpacks the statement, “Although we do not believe that the Father is the Son, we do believe that the Father is in the Son.” Looking at key passages in the Gospels, Dr. Bernard shows how Scripture reveals the Father working in and through Chris...

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2026

Can We Derive Doctrine from Bible Stories? Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. Bernard Nearly 60 percent of the Bible is written in narrative form. Instead of presenting theology in systematic outlines, Scripture often teaches through stories, especially in books such as Acts. But can doctrine be established from these narratives? In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses a foundational question of biblical interpretation: How do we distinguish between what is merely de...

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2026

Episode 252: Should Women Wear Head Coverings When They Pray? In 1 Corinthians 11:5–6, the apostle Paul wrote that a woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered “dishonors her head.” Did Paul mean that women should wear a literal, physical head covering when they pray? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard carefully examines 1 Corinthians 11 and makes the case that a woman’s uncut hair is given to her as her covering. At the same time, Dr. Berna...

Transcribed - Published: 23 February 2026

Family relationships are being reexamined across today’s culture, as more adult children choose to cut off contact with their parents in the name of “boundaries.” What began as a broader social trend is now affecting Christian and Apostolic families as well. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses a challenging and deeply personal question: Does Scripture support an adult Christian cutting ties with Christian parents? With biblical clarity and pas...

Transcribed - Published: 16 February 2026

Has the Church Replaced Israel in God’s Plan? Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. Bernard In light of ongoing global attention on the nation of Israel, many Christians are revisiting an important theological question: Has the church replaced Israel in God’s plan, or does God still have a future purpose for the Jewish people? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard offers a thoughtful, biblically grounded answer rooted in passages such as Ro...

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2026

Does the Didache teach Trinitarian baptism? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines the Didache, an early Christian document frequently cited in debates over baptism and early church practice. The Didache includes instructions to baptize “into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” as well as guidance related to fasting before baptism. But how authoritative is this document, and how should it be understood today? Dr. Berna...

Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2026

Is abortion ever justified? Although the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court ruling has been overturned, abortion remains widespread, and debate continues—particularly over whether there are circumstances in which abortion might be considered justifiable. Drawing from Scripture and Christian ethics, Dr. Bernard addresses common objections often raised in public discussion, including cases involving rape, incest, and situations where the life of the mother is at risk. He explains the biblical princ...

Transcribed - Published: 26 January 2026

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously observed that “11 o’clock on Sunday morning is the most segregated hour in America.” In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard reflects on that statement and its ongoing relevance for today’s church. Dr. Bernard also discusses the importance of multicultural ministry and shares practical, biblical insights on how churches can create a welcoming environment for people of every race, ethnicity, and culture. Drawing from his e...

Transcribed - Published: 19 January 2026

Will marriage exist in heaven? Why did Jesus say that people will "neither marry" nor be "given in marriage" in the resurrection? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines Jesus’ response to the Sadducees’ question about marriage and the resurrection in Matthew 22:23–33. Dr. Bernard explains the theological significance of this passage and what it reveals about the nature of eternal life and the resurrection body. Dr. Bernard also thoughtfully expl...

Transcribed - Published: 12 January 2026

How Do You Practice Spiritual Disciplines When Life Gets Chaotic? How do you remain spiritually consistent when life becomes busy, overwhelming, or unpredictable? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses this practical and timely question by examining the spiritual disciplines that sustain a faithful Christian life. Dr. Bernard discusses essential practices such as prayer, personal study of the Bible, fasting, giving—including tithes and offering...

Transcribed - Published: 5 January 2026

Can genetic engineering resurrect extinct animals—and does that challenge God’s role as Creator? Recent headlines from Colossal Biosciences about the company's efforts to revive extinct species such as the dire wolf have sparked global conversations about science, ethics, and the origins of life. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines these scientific pursuits through a biblical lens, exploring what Scripture teaches about God as the designer, cr...

Transcribed - Published: 29 December 2025

Was Jesus Christ actually born on December 25? And does determining the exact date of His birth truly matter? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the longstanding debate surrounding the date of Jesus’ birth. He examines both historical and biblical evidence related to the celebration of Christmas on December 25 and clarifies what truly matters about the birth of Christ. For more on Christians and Christmas celebrations, see Episode 32 | Should...

Transcribed - Published: 22 December 2025

What did the apostle Paul mean when he listed “the working of miracles” as a spiritual gift in 1 Corinthians 12:10? If God can perform miracles through any believer who prays and acts in faith, why does Paul distinguish this ability as a unique gift of the Spirit? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard unpacks Paul’s teaching on the working of miracles, explaining how this gift operates, how it differs from the general exercise of faith, and why God ...

Transcribed - Published: 15 December 2025

In Matthew 7:16, Jesus said, “You will know them by their fruits” (NKJV). Some use this verse to argue against the Pentecostal belief that speaking in tongues is the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses that argument directly. He explores what “fruit” means in Scripture and clarifies how speaking in tongues functions biblically in relation to salvation and the Christian life. This podcast...

Transcribed - Published: 8 December 2025

Does Deuteronomy 6:4 teach the absolute oneness of God, or does the Hebrew text support a Trinitarian understanding of God’s nature? On this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to a popular argument circulated by Trinitarian apologists which claims the Hebrew word echad in Deuteronomy 6:4 refers to “unity” rather than “singularity,” thereby implying plurality within the Godhead. Dr. Bernard evaluates the linguistic, biblical, and theological merit of ...

Transcribed - Published: 1 December 2025

Can Christians decree and declare blessings? On this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to a question from a listener in Australia about the practice of “decreeing and declaring,” the belief that Christians can speak health, wealth, or other blessings into existence through the creative power of their words. Dr. Bernard explores whether Scripture supports the idea that believers can “decree and declare” realities into being, offering a clear and bibl...

Transcribed - Published: 24 November 2025

How can we tell when God is truly speaking to us—and when it’s merely our own thoughts? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard answers a listener’s question about discerning the voice of God and understanding His will. Drawing from Scripture and decades of ministry experience, Dr. Bernard offers practical guidance that can help any believer grow in spiritual sensitivity and confidently follow God’s direction. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Ber...

Transcribed - Published: 17 November 2025

Will the wicked dead suffer eternally in Hell or will they be annihilated and cease to exist? Dr. David K. Bernard looks to Scripture to settle this longstanding debate about the afterlife and the eternal fate of unrepentant sinners on this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century. 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 a...

Transcribed - Published: 10 November 2025

Who is authorized to perform Christian baptisms? While the New Testament clearly emphasizes baptism in Jesus’ name for salvation, it does not directly state which members of the church are qualified to perform them. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard offers both biblical and practical guidance on 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...

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2025

The Gospels include many accounts of Jesus casting out devils. In Mark 16:17 (NKJV), Jesus told His disciples that "those who believe" will "cast out demons." In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard compares cases of demon possession in North America with accounts from the New Testament and modern reports from other parts of the globe. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout ...

Transcribed - Published: 27 October 2025

In 1 Corinthians 1:17, Paul wrote, "Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel" (NKJV). Some cite this verse to downplay the importance of water baptism to Christian salvation. Dr. David K. Bernard responds with an examination of the context of 1 Corinthians and Paul's teaching on baptism in other New Testament passages. 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. ...

Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2025

In Revelation 21, the apostle John described a vision in which he saw "a new heaven and a new earth"," as well as "the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God" (verses 1-2). John's vision seems to contradict popular conceptions of Heaven as a place in the clouds. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines what the Bible actually says about where believers will live in eternity. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's...

Transcribed - Published: 13 October 2025

On this episode of the Apostolic Life in the 21st Century podcast, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to a listener's question about how Oneness Pentecostals understand Philippians 2:5-11. Dr. Bernard explains how this passage aligns with a Oneness view of Jesus Christ. For further study, see Dr. Bernard's book The Oneness View of Jesus Christ. Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works is available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your ord...

Transcribed - Published: 6 October 2025

Join Dr. David K. Bernard for a special episode of the Apostolic Life in the 21st Century podcast, filmed live during the annual General Conference of the United Pentecostal Church International. General Conference 2025 was held September 23-26 in St. Louis, Missouri, and marked the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UPCI. 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. Visit UPC...

Transcribed - Published: 2 October 2025

In Luke 16:1-12, Jesus shared a strange parable about an unjust steward who defrauded his employer. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the meaning of this puzzling parable and the lessons Christians can draw from Jesus' words. 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 revie...

Transcribed - Published: 29 September 2025

Dr. David K. Bernard explains how the United Pentecostal Church International was formed in 1945 by the merger of two smaller organizations, the Pentecostal Assemblies of Jesus Christ and the Pentecostal Church, Incorporated. The UPCI will celebrate the 80th anniversary of this event during General Conference 2025, which begins this week in St. Louis, Missouri, the site of the 1945 merger conference. Resources mentioned in this episode: • A History of Christian Doctrine: Volume 3 by Dr. Davi...

Transcribed - Published: 22 September 2025

In 1 Corinthians 12:8, the apostle Paul includes the "word of knowledge" in his list of gifts imparted by the Holy Spirit. Dr. David K. Bernard explains what the word of wisdom is and how it operates. He also provides biblical examples and shares how he has seen the word of wisdom work in a modern church setting. For further study, 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 e...

Transcribed - Published: 15 September 2025

If a Christian struggles with sin, does it mean they're not really saved? Dr. David K. Bernard explores the meaning of 1 John 3:6, which states, "No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him" (ESV). Dr. Bernard explains what it means to abide in God while still facing the reality of human weakness. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 perc...

Transcribed - Published: 8 September 2025

Is artificial intelligence a technological gift or a tool of the Antichrist? Dr. David K. Bernard unpacks the promises, perils, and spiritual implications of AI. 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 Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the ...

Transcribed - Published: 1 September 2025

Why do Oneness Pentecostals place so much emphasis on Acts 2:38? Dr. David K. Bernard explains the significance of Peter's response to the question, "What shall we do?” (Acts 2:37, NKJV) and how Acts 2:38 succinctly summarizes the New Testament plan of salvation. For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book The New Birth, 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 re...

Transcribed - Published: 25 August 2025

The fifth commandment instructs us to “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12), a principle reaffirmed by Paul in Ephesians 6:2. But what does this mean for Christians whose parents are not believers? And how should believers respond when parents have been abusive or have damaged the relationship through sinful behavior? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses these challenging questions with biblical insight and pastoral wisdom. Visit ...

Transcribed - Published: 18 August 2025

Is it wrong for Christians to have doubts? How should believers respond when doubts arise in their minds? Dr. David K. Bernard examines what the Bible says about faith, doubt, and reason, and why truth bears investigation. For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Anchor Points, 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 Apple Podcasts or your preferred p...

Transcribed - Published: 11 August 2025

Christian researcher George Barna released a report earlier this year revealing that only 16 percent of self-proclaimed Christians in the United States believe in the Trinity. Dr. David K. Bernard explores what this means for Oneness Pentecostals and their relationship with the broader Christian culture. You can read Barna's summation of this report at GeorgeBarna.com. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout t...

Transcribed - Published: 4 August 2025

Not every church guideline is spelled out in the Bible. Does that make those guidelines unbiblical? Dr. David K. Bernard explores the role of spiritual authority, pastoral leadership, and the legitimacy of so-called “church standards” in this thought-provoking episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century. For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Practical Holiness, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy...

Transcribed - Published: 28 July 2025

With North American Youth Congress set to begin later in the week, Dr. David K. Bernard shares advice and insights that will help Apostolic students and young adults live out God's purpose and plan for their lives. For further reading on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book The Apostolic Life, 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 Apple Podcasts or your pre...

Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2025