Apostolic Life in the 21st Century

Latest Episodes:

Would the Discovery of Aliens Undermine Scripture? Sep 04, 2023

Show notes

In July 2023, a retired Air Force major testified before a congressional subcommittee that the US government has been aware of “non-human” activity since the 1930s. According to the former intelligence officer’s testimony, the US government has found and attempted to reverse-engineer unidentified flying objects, or UFOs, as they are commonly known. The Pentagon has denied these claims, but lawmakers from both parties seemed to take this testimony at least somewhat seriously. (Source: The Associated Press)
Would irrefutable proof of extraterrestrial life undermine the authority of Scripture or present a challenge to faith in God? Dr. David K. Bernard responds to this question by reviewing what the Bible does (and doesn't) say about life on other planets.

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Avoiding the Pitfalls of Money, Sex, and Power Aug 28, 2023

Show notes

Why do so many Christian leaders seem to fall prey to the temptations of the misuse of money, sexual immorality, and the abuse of power? Dr. David K. Bernard looks to the Scriptures for answers to this question, and he offers advice on how Christians from all walks of life can protect themselves from temptation.
For more information on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Leadership in the Twenty-First Century, available at PentecostalPublishing.com.

Does the Bible Support Capital Punishment? Aug 21, 2023

Show notes

Many countries have abolished the death penalty, but the United States remains a notable exception, along with China, Iran, North Korea, and Somalia—nations not exactly recognized for enlightened governance. In the U.S., there also are concerns that the sentencing process in capital cases is tainted by racism and bias.
How should Christians address this topic? Does the Bible support the death penalty, or is capital punishment a barbaric relic of the past that should be abolished? Listen now to Dr. David K. Bernard's response.

Does Absolute Truth Exist? Aug 14, 2023

Show notes

According to postmodernism, there is no such thing as “absolute truth." This directly contradicts the Christian belief that Jesus Christ is "the truth" (John 14:6) and that the holy Scriptures are infallible. Considering this, how can Christians effectively share their faith with those who adhere to postmodernist thinking?
Dr. David K. Bernard explains the Christian basis for belief in absolute truth and how believers can engage with those who have been influenced by postmodernist thought.
For more information on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's books Anchor Points and God's Infallible Word. Both titles are available at PentecostalPublishing.com.

How Should Christian Parents Approach Sex Education? Aug 07, 2023

Show notes

Apostolics and other conservative Christians frequently object to public school sex education programs, often because the messages communicated in these classes contradict biblical morality. How should Christian parents address the subjects of sex and human sexuality with their children? Dr. David K. Bernard shares his perspectives as a parent and pastor on this important question.
Recommended Resources

Worth the Wait: Being an Anomaly in an Immoral World by Tyler Walea and Ken Gurley, available at PentecostalPublishing.com
Anchor Points by Dr. David K. Bernard, available at PentecostalPublishing.com

How Do You Prepare Sermons? Jul 31, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard shares practical insights on sermon and Bible study preparation, including the tools and tactics he uses to capture sermon ideas and illustrations. Every pastor, preacher, and Bible student will benefit from the wisdom Dr. Bernard has gleaned from more than forty years of pulpit ministry.
In this episode, Dr. Bernard references the following resources:

Spiritual Leadership in the Twenty-First Century by David K. Bernard
We Preach by Jerry Jones
Life Preaching by Jonathan McClintock

North American Youth Congress 2023 Jul 24, 2023

Show notes

This week, more than 30,000 students and adults from across North America will gather in St. Louis for North American Youth Congress, a biennial conference hosted by UPCI Youth Ministries. Since its inception in 1979, NAYC has become the largest UPCI-sponsored event in North America. In this special episode, UPCI General Superintendent Dr. David K. Bernard explains why gatherings like NAYC are important to the body of Christ.
Visit NorthAmericanYouthCongress.com for more information about North American Youth Congress.

Will the Sonship of Jesus End? Jul 17, 2023

Show notes

Paul's description of the end of the age in 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 has confused many readers. The apostle wrote, “Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power” (verse 24). He later added, “And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all" (verse 28). Taken at face value, Paul seems to imply not only a distinction between the Father and the Son, but also a subordinate role for the Son.
Dr. David K. Bernard reviews what the Bible says about the sonship of Jesus Christ and explains how Paul's description of the end of the age fits within that framework.

How Do We Pursue Spiritual Gifts? Jul 10, 2023

Show notes

In 1 Corinthians 14:1, the apostle Paul encouraged Christians to “pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts.” Dr. David K. Bernard reviews what the New Testament says about spiritual gifts and shares advice on how believers can pursue these gifts in a scriptural manner.
For more information on this subject, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Gifts, available at PentecostalPublishing.com.

What Are a Christian’s Civic Responsibilities? Jul 03, 2023

Show notes

Citizens of the United States enjoy freedom of religion thanks to the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. But it has often been noted that freedom comes with corresponding responsibilities. What are a Christian's obligations as a citizen of an earthly nation? Dr. David K. Bernard looks to the New Testament for guidance on how believers should interact with government.

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