

Apostolic Life in the 21st Century
David K. Bernard
A podcast dedicated to helping modern-day believers live out the teachings of the first century church. This podcast is part of the teaching ministry of Dr. David K. Bernard, the general superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church International.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 16, 2023 • 15min
What Is Servant Leadership?
Dr. David K. Bernard, an expert in biblical leadership, dives into the fascinating world of servant leadership. He addresses the apparent contradiction between servitude and authority, emphasizing that true leadership is rooted in serving others. The discussion highlights scriptural teachings, particularly Jesus' example of washing the disciples' feet, revealing how humility fosters trust in church communities. Bernard also explores how pure intentions in leadership can significantly drive church growth. A thought-provoking take on what it truly means to lead.

Oct 9, 2023 • 18min
What Is the UPCI Doing to Prevent Sexual Abuse?
The US Centers for Disease Control estimates that more than half of all women and almost one in three men will be the victim of some form of sexual violence during their lifetime. Those are sobering statistics. Unfortunately, these types of crimes are sometimes perpetrated by church members and leaders. In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard shares what the United Pentecostal Church International is doing to prevent sexual abuse from happening and ministering to those who have been abused.For more information and resources related to this topic, visit UPCI.org/SafeChurch.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.

Oct 2, 2023 • 23min
Why Don't Apostolic Pentecostals Wear Jewelry?
Dr. David K. Bernard, a scholar specializing in biblical perspectives, dives deep into the significance of modesty and adornment in Christian life. He unpacks 1 Timothy 2:9, discussing how Paul's words apply to modern believers amid today's fashion trends. The conversation touches on the cultural history of jewelry, emphasizing simplicity over extravagance, while promoting a balanced approach to personal expression. Bernard also highlights the importance of inner character and modest living, particularly in ministry, creating a thought-provoking dialogue on faith and appearance.

Sep 25, 2023 • 17min
What Does the Bible Say about Church Government?
Dr. David K. Bernard, a distinguished scholar, dives deep into church governance from a New Testament perspective. He unpacks the concept of congregational church government and compares it to other structures like hierarchical and Presbyterian systems. Bernard emphasizes the autonomous yet interconnected nature of early church governance, illustrating how congregations and elders collaboratively shape leadership. He also discusses ministerial qualifications and the spiritual significance of unity while highlighting biblical principles that guide modern church governance.

Sep 18, 2023 • 17min
What Is Happening at General Conference 2023?
Dr. David K. Bernard, the General Superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church International, discusses the upcoming General Conference 2023 in Indianapolis. He shares exciting insights about the significance of this gathering, including the election of key leaders and the role of prayer amidst proposed resolutions. Dr. Bernard emphasizes the importance of fellowship and networking for all attendees, while also celebrating the church's global growth and youth engagement in ministry. Expect live streaming options for those participating from afar!

Sep 11, 2023 • 13min
Is Tolerance a Christian Virtue?
Dr. David K. Bernard, a scholar focusing on the intersection of Christian values and modern culture, delves into the complex concept of tolerance. He explores whether tolerance is a biblical virtue and how Christians can navigate today's diverse society. The discussion highlights the importance of love and respect while clarifying the difference between accepting individuals and approving of their lifestyles. Dr. Bernard emphasizes that not all choices are equally valid, advocating for a balance between compassion and the truth of salvation through Jesus.

Sep 4, 2023 • 11min
Would the Discovery of Aliens Undermine Scripture?
In this intriguing discussion, a retired Air Force major reveals the U.S. government's knowledge of non-human activity dating back to the 1930s. He shares insights about attempts to reverse-engineer UFOs, prompting questions about faith and scripture. Dr. David K. Bernard responds, analyzing whether the discovery of alien life could challenge traditional Christian beliefs. The conversation delves into philosophical and moral implications while exploring the intersections of unexplained phenomena and biblical doctrine.

Aug 28, 2023 • 12min
Avoiding the Pitfalls of Money, Sex, and Power
Dr. David K. Bernard, a Christian leader and author, delves into the vulnerabilities Christian leaders face with money, sex, and power. He emphasizes the importance of biblical principles to safeguard against these temptations. Bernard provides practical advice on establishing accountability in the church, promoting ethical practices, and the necessity of personal integrity. He also highlights the role of a supportive network in navigating leadership challenges. Insights from his book enrich the discussion, offering guidance for spiritual leaders in modern times.

Aug 21, 2023 • 17min
Does the Bible Support Capital Punishment?
Dr. David K. Bernard, a scholarly figure specializing in the intersection of Christianity and capital punishment, dives deep into a provocative discussion. He examines whether the Bible supports capital punishment or if it's an outdated practice. The conversation uncovers issues such as racial bias in sentencing and the complexities of wrongful convictions. Dr. Bernard advocates for a justice system that prioritizes mercy and fairness, challenging listeners to reconcile their faith with the realities of modern legal frameworks.

Aug 14, 2023 • 14min
Does Absolute Truth Exist?
In this intriguing discussion, Dr. David K. Bernard, a prominent advocate for the Christian faith, argues for the existence of absolute truth in a world influenced by postmodernism. He explores the foundations of truth in Scripture and addresses the challenges of engaging with skeptics. Dr. Bernard highlights the dangers of moral relativism and its implications on societal standards, emphasizing that objective moral truths are essential for a just society. His insights provide a compelling case for believers navigating a culture of subjective morality.