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 clarity, and theological insight into this challenging passage in this episode of Apostolic Life in...
May 19, 2025•10 min•Season 5Ep. 212
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 rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you sha...
May 12, 2025•9 min•Season 5Ep. 211
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's book The Trinitarian Controversy in the Fourth Century for further reading. Dr. Bernard'...
May 05, 2025•21 min•Season 5Ep. 210
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 encouragement for anyone who wants to align their life with God’s plan. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop ...
Apr 28, 2025•15 min•Season 5Ep. 209
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 biblical times and today. Whether you’re curious about these heavenly beings or seeking a deeper un...
Apr 21, 2025•12 min•Season 5Ep. 208
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 or seeking clarity on the gospel message, this episode will enhance your understanding and renew your...
Apr 14, 2025•13 min•Season 5Ep. 207
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 code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-st...
Apr 07, 2025•13 min•Season 5Ep. 206
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. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a...
Mar 31, 2025•8 min•Season 5Ep. 205
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, especially in heavily populated regions. He shares his own experiences as a church planter in Austin, Texa...
Mar 24, 2025•20 min•Season 5Ep. 204
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 principle in their personal lives. See Dr. Bernard's books In Search of Holiness and Practical Ho...
Mar 17, 2025•19 min•Season 5Ep. 203
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 order. If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred po...
Mar 10, 2025•14 min•Season 5Ep. 202
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. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent...
Mar 03, 2025•14 min•Season 5Ep. 201
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 are forgiven, but the weight of his past still haunts him. Many Christians face similar struggles—ho...
Feb 24, 2025•13 min•Season 5Ep. 200
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 published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy th...
Feb 17, 2025•12 min•Season 5Ep. 199
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, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also apprec...
Feb 10, 2025•18 min•Season 5Ep. 198
Dr. David K. Bernard discusses whether it’s OK for Christians to listen to secular music. He offers biblical insights and practical advice on how Apostolic Pentecostals should approach this question. 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 y...
Feb 03, 2025•11 min•Season 5Ep. 197
David K. Bernard clarifies what it means for a local church to be affiliated with the United Pentecostal Church International. Does affiliation give the UPCI control over a church's pastor or property? What about voting membership and adherence to the UPCI Articles of Faith? Hear the answers to these important questions and learn about the benefits and process of becoming an affiliated UPCI church. Check out the following resources for more on this topic: The Apostolic Church in the Twenty-...
Jan 27, 2025•18 min•Season 5Ep. 196
Dr. David K. Bernard discusses the importance of multicultural ministry in a time of political, cultural, ethnic, and racial division. Dr. Bernard also reviews the United Pentecostal Church International's efforts to take the gospel to every culture in North America. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. Bernard references the following resources: • UPCI.org/stats • UPCI.org/statements-archive • UPCI.org/global-council If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating...
Jan 20, 2025•16 min•Season 5Ep. 195
Dr. David K. Bernard discusses the biblical foundation and growing popularity of small group ministry. 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....
Jan 13, 2025•13 min•Season 5Ep. 194
If eternal salvation is a personal matter between an individual and God, why should believers bother with being part of a local church? Dr. David K. Bernard responds to this frequently asked question by explaining why all Christians should be faithful and active members of a local church assembly. 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-...
Jan 06, 2025•10 min•Season 5Ep. 193
Dr. David K. Bernard shares practical advice on how leaders can get things done during the busiest seasons of life and ministry. Dr. Bernard's advice and insights are applicable to any leader who wants to be efficient and effective in the coming year. For more on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Leadership in the Twenty-First Century , available at PentecostalPublishing.com . Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order. If you enjoy this podcast, lea...
Dec 30, 2024•16 min•Season 4Ep. 192
Dr. David K. Bernard shares stories from his travels as an itinerant missionary and general superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church International. From growing up in Korea as the son of missionary parents to preaching behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, Dr. Bernard looks back at a few of the more adventurous moments of his life and ministry. For more travel stories, see Dr. Bernard's book To the Ends of the Earth , available at PentecostalPublishing.com . Enter promo code D...
Dec 23, 2024•20 min•Season 4Ep. 191
Popular psychics, tarot card readers, and astrologers have amassed large followings on social media and elsewhere. Does the Bible say anything about these activities? Is this dabbling in the occult or just harmless fun? Dr. David K. Bernard responds. 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 prefe...
Dec 16, 2024•10 min•Season 4Ep. 190
Where do dinosaurs fit in the creation narrative of Genesis 1-2? Dr. David K. Bernard reviews the possibilities that have been put forward by believing scientists and scholars. If you or someone you know has ever questioned how to reconcile the fossil record with Scripture, this episode is for you. For more on this topic, Dr. Bernard recommends the following resources: Anchor Points by Dr. David K. Bernard Theistic Evolution by J. P. Moreland et al, eds. Seven Days that Divide the World by John ...
Dec 09, 2024•22 min•Season 4Ep. 189
Revelation 20:11-15 describes what is often referred to as the "Great White Throne Judgement." Dr. David K. Bernard explains what the Bible says about this prophetic event and the eternal fate of those who will be present. 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 platf...
Dec 02, 2024•8 min•Season 4Ep. 188
In 1 Corinthians 12:9, Paul lists faith as one of the gifts of the Spirit. In this podcast episode, Dr. David K. Bernard explains the difference between the "gift of faith" and the faith that is a prerequisite for salvation. For more on this topic, 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 iTunes or your pr...
Nov 25, 2024•12 min•Season 4Ep. 187
The Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles in the early 20th century gave birth to the modern Pentecostal and Charismatic movements. Dr. David K. Bernard explains what happened at Azusa Street and how those events have shaped the current religious landscape. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Search "A History of Christian Doctrine" at PentecostalPublishing.com to access Dr. Bernard's three-volume set on that topic. Enter promo...
Nov 18, 2024•16 min•Season 4Ep. 186
Dr. David K. Bernard explains why Pentecostals believe in miracles and emphasize the miraculous in their prayers and preaching. He also shares accounts of miracles he has witnessed in his own life and ministry. 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 appreciat...
Nov 11, 2024•16 min•Season 4Ep. 185
In this US presidential election special episode, Dr. David K. Bernard discusses a Christian's civic responsibilities, including proper stewardship of the right to vote and how believers should respond to election outcomes. 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....
Nov 04, 2024•12 min•Season 4Ep. 184
Are there theological similarities between modern Oneness Pentecostalism and the so-called "modalism" of early church history? In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. David K. Bernard compares what is known about modalism in the early church with modern Oneness Pentecostalism. 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 ...
Oct 28, 2024•13 min•Season 4Ep. 183
