David K. Bernard investigates the theology of holiness, provides historical perspectives on practical holiness issues and delves into topics such as dress, hair, marriage and divorce, abortion, and astrology.
Holiness is a subject that I hold near and dear to my heart. I appreciate that Dr. Bernard always writes his books in a way that are easy to follow and understand even though they are theologically based.
I really like how he went at holiness from a heart perspective. I was raised in such a way that holiness was a list of do’s and don’ts. Through no fault of the previous generation because I believe that is how they were raised. But I saw many of my peers fall away from truth and holiness due to such upbringings. And so that pushed me to become interested in the subject.
This book outlines perfectly that holiness is a constant pursuit. We have never achieved it. There are no amount of rules you can follow to achieve holiness. And I really agreed with how he said holiness is personal and it’s not for anyone to judge someone else’s holiness. I find many Christians to be legalistic with their outer appearance and feel that gives them free reign to advise and judge others while they neglect their own hearts or bodies. Holiness involves the whole of someone: mind, body and spirit not just how you dress.
I really enjoyed this book!! It was easy to understand and touched on subjects that have been considered a “gray area” for most Apostolic Pentecostals. Rev. Bernard puts it in a way you cannot deny. Full of biblical support and intelligent looks into why we believe what we believe. I firmly believe that anyone of any denomination could pick this up and understand what it says. With understanding comes change. Rev. Bernard knew that seeing was understanding and wrote accordingly 👏 well done!!
The sequel to His book, in search of holiness. Bernard brings a lot to bear in this voluminous text. Although one will not agree with every small conviction Bernard has here. It is a very in-depth analysis at the doctrines held within the United Pentecostal Church international, on the grounds of holiness and our practice of it. Bernard brings both biblical and historical evidence to back up our denominational beliefs and show that they are soundly founded upon the Scriptures. It is also a required text for many of our ministerial trainings and licensing procedures.
Many feel that teachings on separation from worldly entertainments, dress, adornment, and behavior are surface-level and rooted only in a kind of modern shallow Pharisaism. I encourage you if you feel that way to read this book, even if you disagree, to better understand the theological principles that these teachings are based on.
A excellent approach and clear reasons on how to navigate through life in these times. Excellent reading for anyone looking for clearer understanding of why pentecostal people do the things we do.
This book is a good reference for an irenic presentation of Oneness Holiness Standards teachings. Some of the criticisms of Americana Christianity land, but this book has a mountain of presuppositions and proof texting.