Dr. David K. Bernard shares compelling stories about the influential people in his life, from family to fellow ministers. He highlights the profound impact his missionary parents had on his spiritual development, emphasizing lessons learned from his father's pastoralism and mother's evangelism. The journey of writing his first book, 'In Search of Holiness,' while facing challenges, is also discussed. Mentorship plays a crucial role, with Bernard advocating for continuous learning and fostering future leaders within the church community.
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Quick takeaways
Dr. David K. Bernard attributes his strong sense of purpose and commitment to ministry primarily to the dedication of his parents as United Pentecostal ministers.
His prolific writing career began as a response to his parents' encouragement and the need for theological resources within the Apostolic movement.
Deep dives
Parental Influence on Leadership and Ministry
The foundational influence on Dr. Bernard's life and ministry came primarily from his parents, who were dedicated United Pentecostal ministers. Their commitment to God and the apostolic faith instilled in him a strong sense of purpose and identity. His father's organizational skills and focus on church growth complemented his mother's evangelistic and teaching approach, shaping his understanding of both practical ministry and doctrinal foundation. This blended heritage not only provided him with stability but also inspired his commitment to doctrine, revival, and miracles throughout his life.
The Genesis of Writing as a Ministry
Dr. Bernard's foray into writing was a direct result of his parents' encouragement, particularly a request from his father to develop a book on holiness. The void of resources on this essential topic prompted him to compile his mother’s lecture notes into a comprehensive text, leading to the self-publication of 'In Search of Holiness.' This experience opened his eyes to the need for written materials addressing various theological gaps in the Apostolic movement, ultimately leading to a prolific writing career that encompasses over 30 books. The initiative not only enabled him to fill those gaps but also highlighted the significant role that written works play in shaping faith communities.
Mentorship and Continuous Learning in Ministry
Throughout Dr. Bernard's ministry, several key figures provided mentorship, further shaping his leadership skills and theological insight. Notably, J.L. Hall, as a prominent editor, influenced Dr. Bernard's approach to writing and theology, fostering an understanding of both national and international ministry perspectives. Additionally, his experiences at various churches and with respected leaders offered practical lessons in pastoral care, evangelism, and administrative duties. This ongoing engagement with mentors and the younger generation reflects Dr. Bernard's belief that learning is a continuous journey, necessary for adapting to evolving cultural and technological landscapes.
Dr. David K. Bernard is one of the most influential Oneness Pentecostal leaders and scholars in the world. In this episode, he reflects on the many individuals who helped shape his life and ministry, and he shares personal stories of family, friends, and fellow ministers who molded his thinking and inspired him to grow in his faith.
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