Apostolic Life in the 21st Century

Not every church guideline is spelled out in the Bible. Does that make those guidelines unbiblical? Dr. David K. Bernard explores the role of spiritual authority, pastoral leadership, and the legitimacy of so-called “church standards” in this thought-provoking episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century . For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Practical Holiness , available at Pente...

With North American Youth Congress set to begin later in the week, Dr. David K. Bernard shares advice and insights that will help Apostolic students and young adults live out God's purpose and plan for their lives. For further reading on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book The Apostolic Life , available at PentecostalPublishing.com . Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent o...

What is the gift of “discerning of spirits” mentioned by Paul in 1 Corinthians 12:10? How does it work, and can we see it in action today? Dr. David K. Bernard provides biblical insight, real-world examples, and practical understanding of this often-misunderstood spiritual gift. For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Gifts , available at PentecostalPublishing.com . Enter pro...

Apostolic Pentecostals have long taken a strong stand against substances that harm the body—tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs, and the abuse of prescription medications. But if we condemn smoking and drinking for destroying the body, what about overconsumption of sugar, soda, and junk food which contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other serious health conditions? In this thought-provoking podcast e...

What is Christian nationalism? Should Christians embrace or avoid this ideology? With Independence Day approaching, Dr. David K. Bernard unpacks the concept of “Christian Nationalism" and examines Christianity's influence on America's founding, history, and culture. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at...

Trinitarians sometimes argue that 1 John 4:8 ("God is love") demands that God be triune in nature. In his popular book Mere Christianity , Christian apologist C. S. Lewis wrote, “The words ‘God is love’ have no real meaning unless God contains at least two Persons. Love is something that one person has for another person. If God was a single person, then before the world was made, He was...

Every Apostolic parent wants to see their children grow up serving God and continuing in truth—but how can we give them the best foundation to make this possible? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century , Dr. David K. Bernard draws from both Scripture and real-world experience to share practical, faith-driven principles that can help parents raise children who remain rooted in the fa...

How does speaking in tongues during personal prayer times benefit believers? Is there biblical support for a private “prayer language”? How does this differ from tongues as a public sign (1 Corinthians 14:22)? Should believers be concerned if they don't speak in tongues during personal devotions? Dr. David K. Bernard answers these important questions on this episode of the Apostolic Life in t...

In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to a listener's question about overcoming same-sex attraction. Drawing from Scripture and years of pastoral experience, Dr. Bernard provides compassionate, biblically grounded guidance for those seeking to align their lives with Christian teaching. His message offers hope and encouragement for anyone battling...

Dr. David K. Bernard addresses a question frequently raised by Christians navigating modern culture: Is it acceptable for believers to practice yoga or participate in martial arts? Yoga and many martial arts have historical roots in Eastern religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Yoga originates from Hindu spiritual practices, while martial arts like kung fu, Muay Thai, and aikido are de...

What did the apostle Paul mean when he wrote, “What will they do who are baptized for the dead, if the dead do not rise at all? Why then are they baptized for the dead?” (1 Corinthians 15:29, NKJV). Paul's words have sparked centuries of debate and even inspired one religious group to practice baptism on behalf of deceased individuals. Dr. David K. Bernard provides biblical context, doctrinal...

Why do Pentecostals use anointing oil in prayer? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the biblical origin and spiritual purpose of this practice. 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...

In May 325, the Emperor Constantine convened a meeting of Christian leaders in the town of Nicaea, in modern Turkey. At that meeting, church leaders crafted a statement known as the “Nicaean Creed” that is still recited by many Christians today. In this podcast episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains what happened at the Council of Nicaea and why it still matters 1,700 years later. See Dr. Bernard&...

As graduation season approaches, many students—and even adults—are asking a crucial question: How do I find God’s will for my life? In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard breaks down the process of discerning and following God’s direction. Whether you’re choosing a college, a career, or simply seeking clarity for your next step, this conversation offers practical guidance and spiritual encouragemen...

Both the Old and New Testaments make frequent references to angels. Angels played a central role in announcing the resurrection of Jesus. What are angels, and what does the Bible really teach about them? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the scriptural role of angels, their purpose in God’s plan, and how we should understand their presence in both...

As Easter approaches, Dr. David K. Bernard answers the question at the heart of the Christian faith: why did Jesus have to die? In this special episode, Dr. Bernard explores the meaning of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He unpacks the purpose of the cross, the necessity of sacrifice, and why the resurrection changes everything. Whether you’re preparing your heart for Easter o...

Does Jesus' prayer in John 17:5 disprove the Oneness Pentecostal assertion that the Son of God did not exist prior to the Incarnation? In this podcast episode, Dr. David K. Bernard examines John 17 and what it teaches us about the Godhead and the relationship between the Father and the Son. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo...

If God is love (1 John 4:8), why do Proverbs 9:10 and other Bible verses repeatedly instruct us to have the "fear of the Lord"? In this podcast episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains what it means to "fear God" and how we should understand this command in light of His love and grace. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Ent...

Why do we need more churches in North America? The United Pentecostal Church International currently has more than 5,000 congregations in the United States and Canada. Is there really a need for more? On the eve of the annual UPCI North American Missions Launch Conference for church planters, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the importance of church planting and why we need more UPCI churches, especi...

The Pentecostal Holiness movement emphasizes the importance of modesty, often referencing 1 Timothy 2:9-10 as a guiding scripture passage. But in a world where fashion, culture, and societal norms are constantly evolving, how should 21st century Christians interpret these verses? Dr. David K. Bernard examines biblical teaching on modesty and explains why believers should display this scriptural pr...

Many Christians, including Pentecostals, speak about “spiritual warfare,” but what does that phrase really mean? Dr. David K. Bernard provides a clear, biblical perspective on spiritual warfare and what it looks like in the life of a believer. 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 or...

Is it wrong to use the name Jesus when we pray? Some claim we should only call our Lord by His Hebrew name Yeshua and that the English name Jesus has pagan origins—even alleging it means “the pig.” Dr. David K. Bernard examines the biblical and historical merits of this argument and the proper use of the name of Jesus in Christian worship and devotion. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. B...

A podcast listener from outside North America shares a powerful and unusual testimony. Before coming to Christ, he was part of a group designated as a terrorist organization. Now, as a born-again believer, he wrestles with overwhelming shame, regret, and torment over his past sins. He asks: Is this punishment from God? Or are these attacks from the enemy? He knows Scripture declares that his sins...

Who were the "Nephilim" in Genesis 6:4, and how should we make sense of the “sons of God” having children with the “daughters of humans," as this verse states? Dr. David K. Bernard examines this frequently debated Bible passage and offers the most plausible interpretation based on the entirety of Scripture. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of p...

Dr. David K. Bernard shares biblical wisdom regarding what Apostolic Pentecostal singles should look for in a spouse. Dr. Bernard highlights the characteristics that make for a strong, lasting, Christian marriage. 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...