Apostolic Life in the 21st Century

David K. Bernard
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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.

  1. 5D AGO

    Is God the Father Also the Son?

    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 Christ, upholding both the full deity and genuine humanity of Jesus. 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 iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    18 min

  2. MAR 2

    Can We Derive Doctrine from Bible Stories?

    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 descriptive in Scripture and what is prescriptive for the church today? Referencing his book Understanding God’s Word, Dr. Bernard challenges the common Western assumption that the propositional teaching of the Epistles carries more theological authority than the examples recorded in Acts. He explains why narrative passages are not secondary theology and why the practices of the early church matter for doctrine. With biblical clarity, Dr. Bernard explores how to properly interpret Scripture and why the example of the early church remains essential for believers today. This episode is a thoughtful and practical guide for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of hermeneutics, apostolic doctrine, and the authority of Scripture. 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 iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    17 min

  3. FEB 23

    Should Women Wear Head Coverings When They Pray?

    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. Bernard acknowledges that in some cultures, Oneness Pentecostals practice wearing a literal head covering during prayer. While he does not believe this was Paul’s original intent, he expresses respect for those who observe this practice as a matter of conviction and cultural application. This episode offers thoughtful biblical interpretation, clarity on Apostolic practice, and balanced guidance for believers seeking to apply Scripture faithfully in today’s world. For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book In Search of Holiness. 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 iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    10 min

  4. FEB 16

    Should I Cut My Parents Out of My Life?

    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 pastoral sensitivity, Dr. Bernard explores the command to honor father and mother (Exodus 20:12), the role of healthy boundaries, and personal responsibility in strained relationships. Rather than adopting cultural narratives uncritically, this conversation invites believers to evaluate family conflict through the lens of Scripture. This episode was inspired by a recent article from The Federalist highlighting the growing trend of family estrangement. 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 iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    10 min

  5. FEB 9

    Has the Church Replaced Israel in God’s Plan?

    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 Romans 9–11 and Galatians 4. He explains that the church is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan, with Israel playing a vital role in bringing forth the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Through Christ, God’s promises are fulfilled not by ethnicity, but by faith, as both Jews and Gentiles are invited into the church through the work of the Holy Spirit. At the same time, Dr. Bernard clarifies that this truth does not mean God is finished with the nation of Israel. Scripture indicates that God still has a purpose and plan for their salvation. This episode brings biblical clarity and balance to a complex and often emotional topic. If you’re seeking a scriptural perspective on Israel, the church, and God’s plan of salvation, this conversation is essential listening. 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 iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    12 min

  6. FEB 2

    What Is the Didache?

    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. Bernard explores the historical background and reliability of the Didache and contrasts it with the clear teaching of Scripture and the practice of the early church. This episode provides thoughtful, biblically grounded insight into biblical baptism, church history, and Apostolic doctrine. Whether you’re a pastor, theology student, or believer seeking deeper understanding, this discussion will help clarify an important and often misunderstood topic. Subscribe to Apostolic Life in the 21st Century for more in-depth conversations on theology, Scripture, and living an Apostolic life today. 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 iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    8 min

  7. JAN 26

    Is Abortion Ever Justified?

    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 principles Christians should consider when thinking about and discussing abortion, emphasizing both moral clarity and compassion. This episode is part of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, a podcast in which Dr. Bernard answers questions about the Bible, Christian living, and current events from a biblical perspective. 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 iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    13 min

  8. JAN 19

    How Do We Build Multicultural Congregations?

    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 experience as a pastor and church planter in Austin, Texas, as well as his years of leadership within the United Pentecostal Church International, he offers guidance for both church leaders and individual believers who desire to reflect the unity of the body of Christ. Resources mentioned in this episode include: UPCI Statements Archive2023 Senior Pastor Survey ResultsAnchor Points by Dr. David K. Bernard 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 iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    14 min
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4.9
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About

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.

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