In this insightful discussion, Dr. David K. Bernard, the General Superintendent of the UPCI, tackles the charge of legalism often levied against Apostolic Pentecostals. He defends the significance of water baptism and personal holiness as expressions of divine grace, not mere works. Dr. Bernard explains how true faith manifests through love and obedience, emphasizing that holiness should stem from genuine belief rather than rigid rules. He highlights the transformative power of faith and grace in fostering deeper connections while steering clear of legalism.
Dr. David K. Bernard clarifies that Apostolic Pentecostals view salvation as a gift through grace, not earned by legalism or good works.
The pursuit of holiness is rooted in love for God, encouraging believers to deepen their relationship rather than simply follow rules.
Deep dives
Understanding Legalism and Grace
Legalism in Christianity is defined as the belief that salvation can be earned through good works or strict adherence to the law. The speaker, Dr. David K. Bernard, emphasizes that members of the United Pentecostal Church International do not subscribe to this belief, asserting that salvation is a gift from God, obtained through grace and faith. Ephesians 2:8-10 supports this perspective, highlighting that while believers are saved by grace, genuine faith naturally produces good works. Dr. Bernard contends that practices such as water baptism and receiving the Holy Spirit are not acts of legalism, but responses to God's saving grace, illustrating that God is the active force in the salvation process.
The Relationship Between Faith and Obedience
The discussion highlights the importance of faith leading to obedience, rather than viewing obedience as merely a checklist of tasks to earn salvation. Dr. Bernard explains that true faith involves a relationship with God that naturally results in following His commandments. This idea is supported by the teachings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who posited that genuine belief is evidenced by one's obedience. He encourages reflection on one's faith, asserting that if individuals are willfully disobeying biblical principles, it indicates a questionable relationship with Christ, underscoring that faith must be accompanied by action.
Love as the Foundation of Holiness
Dr. Bernard argues that the pursuit of holiness should stem from love for God, rather than from a legalistic framework that seeks to fulfill minimal requirements. He posits that love motivates deeper commitment and adherence to God's will, surpassing mere rule-following. By viewing holiness through the lens of love, believers are encouraged to seek a closer relationship with God rather than focusing on how close they can get to sinful behavior. This heartfelt approach to holiness fosters a more authentic faith and emphasizes that obedience arises from love, not obligation, which ultimately reassures believers of their salvation.
Some critics accuse Apostolic Pentecostals of being "legalistic" because of our insistence on water baptism in Jesus' name and our pursuit of personal holiness. Is this accusation warranted? UPCI General Superintendent Dr. David K. Bernard responds to this charge with a defense of Apostolic Pentecostal teachings on both salvation and holiness.
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