Apostolic Life in the 21st Century

David K. Bernard
  • 4.9 (1.1K)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

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. 4d ago

    Is It Wrong for Christians to Be Patriotic?

    What does the Bible say about patriotism? As Americans celebrate Independence Day, many Christians find themselves reflecting on an important question: How should believers balance love for their country with their ultimate allegiance to the kingdom of God? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the relationship between patriotism and Christian faith. Drawing on biblical principles, he explains how believers can appreciate and support their nation while ensuring that their highest loyalty remains with Jesus Christ. Dr. Bernard discusses the difference between healthy patriotism and misplaced devotion and offers practical guidance for navigating the tension between national identity and heavenly citizenship. Whether you are celebrating Independence Day, wrestling with questions about faith and politics, or seeking a biblical perspective on Christian citizenship, this episode provides thoughtful and balanced insight grounded in Scripture. Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is the weekly podcast where Dr. David K. Bernard answers questions about Scripture, theology, Christian living, and current issues from an Apostolic Pentecostal 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 Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    10 min

  2. Jun 22

    What Is the Biblical Role of an Evangelist?

    What is the biblical role of an evangelist? Many Christians associate evangelists with traveling revival preachers who move from church to church preaching special services. While that model has been common in Pentecostal circles, is it the same role the apostle Paul described in Ephesians 4:11? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the New Testament ministry of the evangelist and explains why this calling remains essential to the church today. Drawing from Scripture, he discusses how evangelists fit within the ministry gifts Christ gave to the church, how their work differs from that of pastors and teachers, and how they help fulfill the church’s mission of reaching the lost. Whether you serve in ministry, feel called to evangelistic work, or simply want a deeper understanding of biblical church leadership, this episode offers practical insight into one of the most important ministry roles in the New Testament. Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a weekly podcast in which Dr. David K. Bernard answers questions about Scripture, theology, Christian living, and contemporary issues from an Apostolic Pentecostal perspective. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    10 min

  3. Jun 15

    Does Daniel 7 Disprove Oneness Theology?

    Daniel 7 records one of the most dramatic visions in Scripture. In it, the prophet Daniel sees the Ancient of Days seated on a heavenly throne while “one like the Son of Man” approaches Him and receives an everlasting kingdom. This passage raises an important theological question: Does this vision reveal two distinct divine persons, or is it portraying something else? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines Daniel 7:9-28 and addresses a common challenge raised against Oneness theology. He explores the identities of the Ancient of Days and the Son of Man and discusses whether Daniel’s vision teaches the preexistence of the Son as a separate divine person. Along the way, Dr. Bernard considers what Daniel’s prophecy reveals about the Messiah, the Incarnation, and the relationship between Jesus Christ and the Father. Whether you are studying the Godhead, exploring the differences between Trinitarian and Oneness theology, or seeking a deeper understanding of one of Scripture’s most fascinating prophetic visions, this episode offers a thoughtful examination of a frequently debated passage. Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. Bernard features answers to questions about biblical theology, Christian living, and contemporary issues. 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 Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    13 min

  4. Jun 8

    Can You Grieve the Holy Spirit?

    What does it mean to “grieve the Holy Spirit,” and should Christians be concerned about it today? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines Paul's warning in Ephesians 4:30: “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” While many believers have heard this phrase throughout their lives, its meaning is often misunderstood. Looking at the broader context of Ephesians, Dr. Bernard explains how attitudes such as bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, dishonesty, and harmful speech can hinder the Spirit's work in a believer's life. He also discusses the relationship between conviction, spiritual growth, and Christian obedience, showing why this warning remains relevant for every follower of Christ. In this episode, you'll discover: • What Scripture means by grieving the Holy Spirit   • Why Paul connects this warning to everyday behavior and relationships   • How the Holy Spirit works to transform believers into the image of Christ   • The dangers of resisting the Spirit's conviction over time   • Whether persistent disobedience can affect a person's salvation   Whether you are seeking a deeper walk with God or greater understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in the life of a believer, this episode offers practical biblical insight and encouragement. 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. Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a weekly podcast in which Dr. David K. Bernard answers questions about Scripture, theology, Christian living, church history, and contemporary issues from an Apostolic Pentecostal perspective. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    9 min

  5. Jun 1

    What If a Parent Prohibits their Child’s Baptism?

    What should a pastor do when a child sincerely wants to be baptized in Jesus’ name, but a parent refuses to give consent? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, UPCI General Superintendent Dr. David K. Bernard offers biblical and pastoral guidance for one of the most sensitive situations a church may face. Apostolic Pentecostals believe baptism is part of the biblical plan of salvation described in Acts 2:38, but pastors must also consider the God-given authority of parents, the age and maturity of the child, and the long-term spiritual impact of their response. Dr. Bernard explains why pastors should respect parental rights, follow the Golden Rule, and trust the grace and mercy of God while ministering to children and families with wisdom, patience, and compassion. If you are a pastor, parent, youth worker, or believer seeking biblical clarity on baptism, parental authority, and pastoral responsibility, this conversation provides practical insight from an Apostolic Pentecostal 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 Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    9 min

  6. May 25

    Is There Such a Thing as a Just War?

    Is war ever morally justified? Can Christians support military action while still following the teachings of Jesus? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines the historic doctrine of “just war” and explores what the Bible teaches about warfare, national defense, and the use of force. Prompted by current global conflicts and the reflection that often accompanies Memorial Day, this conversation addresses questions Christians have wrestled with for centuries. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and Christian ethics, Dr. Bernard explains just war theory, the principles traditionally used to evaluate whether a war is morally justified, and how believers should think biblically about patriotism, military service, and international conflict. Topics discussed in this episode include: The fundamentals of just war doctrineWhether the Bible allows for war in certain circumstancesThe role of government in maintaining justice and orderHow Christians should approach modern military conflictsThe tension between personal forgiveness and national defenseWhether you are exploring Christian ethics, seeking a biblical perspective on current events, or simply wanting to better understand this important subject, this episode offers thoughtful and balanced insight from an Apostolic perspective. Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. Bernard features biblical teaching and answers to questions about theology, Christian living, and contemporary issues. 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 Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    15 min

  7. May 18

    The Gifts of Healing: A Gift for Some or a Sign for All?

    In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses an important question about divine healing and the gifts of the Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 12, the apostle Paul lists the “gifts of healing” (verse 9) among the spiritual gifts and makes it clear that not every believer operates in this gift (verse 30). Yet in Mark 16:18, Jesus said believers would lay hands on the sick and they would recover. Is healing a special ministry given only to certain individuals, or is it a sign that can follow any Spirit-filled believer? Dr. Bernard responds to this important question, offering clarity and balance on a topic that is central to Pentecostal theology and practice. For further study, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Gifts, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. 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 Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    7 min

  8. May 11

    Called by God or Hired by a Search Committee?

    What does it really mean to be “called” to a ministry? In Pentecostal circles, pastors often testify that God specifically led them to a church, city, or ministry assignment. Congregations likewise take comfort in believing their pastor was divinely directed, not merely hired like someone applying for a job. But that raises an important question. After seeing a church advertise a pastoral opening on Facebook, a viewer asked: If ministry is truly a calling from God, is it appropriate to post pastor vacancies publicly like any other job opportunity? Does that diminish the sacred nature of pastoral ministry, or can churches faithfully combine spiritual discernment with practical processes? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines the biblical concept of calling, the relationship between divine guidance and church decision-making, and how ministers and congregations can navigate pastoral transitions in a Spirit-led way. Whether you are a pastor, church leader, ministry student, or faithful church member, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into one of the most important aspects of church life and leadership. 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 Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

    11 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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