Apostolic Life in the 21st Century

Dive into the intriguing world of Pauline greetings, where distinctions between God the Father and Jesus Christ come under scrutiny. Oneness Pentecostal beliefs shed new light on these greetings, emphasizing the unity of God. Discover how Paul’s messages reflect a deep connection to Old Testament traditions, blending grace and peace with the essence of Yahweh. This fresh perspective invites listeners to reassess their understanding of salvation and the manifestation of the divine.

What happens when someone steps away from their faith? The discussion dives into the concept of backsliding versus apostasy, emphasizing that restoration is possible with genuine repentance. The parable of the prodigal son serves as a poignant reminder of redemption. It highlights key biblical teachings on forgiveness, illustrating that individuals can return to God's grace without re-baptism, provided their initial commitment was sincere. There's a hopeful message that no one is beyond the reach of divine mercy.

This discussion dives into the authenticity of Mark 16:9-20 and John 7:53-8:11. It examines why modern translations sometimes omit these verses, yet advocates for their inclusion based on textual evidence. The meticulous work of ancient scribes and the vast number of manuscripts are highlighted to bolster confidence in biblical accuracy. The implications of these textual variations on Christian doctrine spark a thought-provoking conversation about faith, scripture, and the preservation of core beliefs.

Discover the upcoming Global Council meeting of the United Pentecostal Church, set to unite apostolic leaders. Delve into its vital role in facilitating global evangelism and fostering international collaboration among churches. Learn about governance structures that maintain doctrinal unity while promoting independent national churches. Exciting reports highlight remarkable growth in regions like the Philippines and Uganda, illustrating the church's expanding global influence and inviting listeners to be part of this vibrant fellowship.

Dr. David K. Bernard dives into the essentials of apostolic apologetics, emphasizing why Christians must be prepared to defend their faith. He explores how apologetics can counter skepticism, especially among young adults. The conversation bridges academic insights with biblical principles, demonstrating how sociology and psychology connect with faith. The significance of equipping young believers through education is highlighted, along with the importance of engaging with resources like Bernard's book, 'Anchor Points,' for deeper understanding.

The podcast dives into the lively debate among Christians regarding Halloween celebrations. Some view it as innocent fun, while others express deep spiritual concerns. The discussion emphasizes the importance of discernment, balancing cultural traditions with the rejection of pagan influences. Listeners are encouraged to foster family-friendly alternatives and consider the individual conscience shaped by Christian liberty. Ultimately, it highlights the need for unity amid diverse beliefs within the Christian community.

Can salvation exist after the Rapture? Dive into various rapture timelines and their implications for believers, including insights from popular culture like the Left Behind series. The discussion highlights the precarious hope for those who have knowingly turned away from faith, while also exploring the possibilities for certain groups during tribulation. Delve into the risks of deceptions presented by the Antichrist and ponder what it means for Jewish believers seeking salvation in tumultuous times.

The podcast debates the controversial verse from 1 Timothy 2:12 regarding women's roles in ministry. It highlights powerful female leaders in the Bible, like Deborah and Phoebe, emphasizing their significance. Historical shifts in church dynamics are examined, revealing a rich tradition of women's leadership. The discussion challenges traditional interpretations of key scriptures, advocating for a more inclusive view on women's ordination. Overall, it makes a compelling case for women actively participating in ministry today.

The podcast dives into the heated debate about whether the Bible condones slavery. It unpacks historical contexts and biblical passages that critics cite as endorsements of the practice. However, it highlights the transformative role of Christianity in the abolition of slavery. The discussion sheds light on the Apostle Paul’s messages and the eventual shift towards dignity and brotherhood. Ultimately, it argues that the scriptural teachings align more with opposing slavery than supporting it.

This week, the United Pentecostal Church International will host its annual General Conference in Orlando, Florida. More than 15,000 have registered to attend this event. In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the purpose of the UPCI's annual General Conference and why both preachers and church members should make it a priority to attend.All General Conference 2022 services will be streamed live on Discipleship Now and on the UPCI's Facebook page and YouTube channel. To see a full schedule of services, visit upcigc.net.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also greatly appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with your family and friends.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.