DKB: The Leader
 

Not too long ago, in the fall of 2002, David K. Bernard, made the transition from scholar and chief apologist of the UPCI to politician and leader when he helped create the charter for the South Texas District and was subsequently voted its leader.

As a "renaissance man" and erudite anomaly among his ministerial peers, having a bachelor's degree, a law degree, various published books and fluent in Korean, he will step into the helm as one of the most qualified men to become General Superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church Int., if not the most.

The man who has written the "definitive" apologies for the organization's view on "practical" Holiness Standards, the prevailing New Birth view and apologized for the Westberg Resolution in 1992, is an open epistle for all to see.

However, with various years now as District Superintendent and President of the Urshan Graduate School under his belt, it would be beneficial to consider DKB's leadership style in these positions in any analysis or commentary as to what his leadership will be like as the org's newest head.

1. First and foremost, DKB is a master communicator, especially with the pen and/or keyboard, and tireless in doing so.

This will be a stark difference from the last administration. As one factors the fallout of why KH did not garner a 2/3 vote of confidence, many will point to a GS that had never really gave his opinion on the important issues that mattered in the last four years - especially with the TV resolution and the formation of the WPF.

As District Superintendent, DKB made it a habit to keep his constituents informed about these issues, and others. This forum has various letters published by DKB in which he expressed his thought and concerns about the TV resolution (Columbus and Tampa), the formation of the WPF and the General Board ruling to not allow ministers to hold license in both orgs.

Simply look at the South Texas District website (http://www.stxupci.com) and you find the most comprehensive, exhaustive and up-to-date district website in the fellowship.

DKB has opined on many issues, even the mundane and "fringe" one's, including the time he logged on to CAF to set the record straight about certain things written about him and his family. The general consensus is that all his correspondences are pleasant and cordial in tone while direct and authoritative in demanding compliance.

Ministers, even in other districts and states, have received letters from DKB as warnings that they have preached for ministers "under question" in his district and that they should not have done so or do so again.

This type of constant and relentless communication, no doubt, will be welcomed by many who felt that the org had lost touch with the rank and file and had been apathetic to the issues of the day. Others, will soon, complain that about org centralizing power and intervening in their district and local affairs.

2. DKB may not have coined the term "Apostolic Identity" but is on a campaign to sear the term as a battle cry into the consciousness and DNA of the fellowship.

Last November, his UGST symposium paper entitled "Holiness and Culture" for the UGST's "Standing Together for Truth" symposium shows a man who will not buckle in most of the distinctives he has helped to define in the last quarter century in compliance to the Holiness article of the UPCI. You can access his paper here:

http://www.ugst.org/uploaded/Symposi...re_Bernard.pdf

When given the opportunity to write a chapter about the future of Oneness Pentecostalism in the 2007 book The future of Pentecostalism in the United States By Eric Patterson, Edmund John Rybarczyk -

DKB wrote,

More importantly, you will find the term and aggressive agenda to remain steadfast to "Apostolic Identity" plastered in many of his writings and dialogues as DS of STX.

Here is an excerpt from his September 2009 update on the STX district website (http://www.stxupci.com/september-update/) :

The emboldened portion should not be ignored as it pertains to his aggressive agenda to preserve and define "Apostolic Identity". In his acceptance speech to the fellowship this last Thursday, Bernard made it clear that protocol will center around the "Word and written policies".

3. Bernard will "mark" and has "marked" many, thus far, as a leader. Using written policy, Bernard has used it, as District Superintendent, in a way reminiscent of a zealous District Attorney. The broader powers given to district boards to place men under question in 2007, has been used with impunity in the STX district, even ex-post-facto. Men, such as Kenneth Phillips, who have been out of the fellowship for decades, have been blacklisted recently under Bernard's direction. Recently, a minister from the STX, told his peers that Bernard and his board, just recently took action against at least 3 ministers to remove ministers "who do not believe the message". It would not surprise many to see that the STX district's "blacklist" might be the largest in the fellowship.

Lastly, this assertive or aggressive leadership style, depending on who you speak to, will lead to a steady stream of liberals who will be turning in their licenses in the next 2 years. These include ministers and teachers who have crossed paths with DKB at UGST and the Texas District and those will find their approach as not in compliance to "Apostolic Identity". The intellectual dishonesty of broad-brush terms like "emergent" and "charismatic" will be eliminated from the WEC's vernacular but the same intolerance for varying views and interpretations will be replaced by a call to preserve "identity" in the name of unity and patience yet seemingly with some teeth behind it.

Ironically, this same over-reaching and centralized WEC intervention that will become the mode of operation during a long tenure as GS will also turn off and alienate many conservatives who will not appreciate any heavy-handedness or perceived threats to their local sovereignty while unsatisfied with the pace and scope of a looming and imminent pogrom. The WeDeclare crowd will be silenced simply because of their unauthorized and "unethical" approach.

As one poster on AFF remarked recently

Of course, you're immune to all of this if you are Rex Johnson who shared the same district and city as DKB.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I wasn't aware of the "blacklisting" going on in STX. Is that for real?

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

That's a scary picture you paint. Sounds more like a Mafia Don than a GS.

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I have read DKB's books, articles and papers and it always seems to me that he likes to tell all the dumb ignorant people in the UPC what the Bible says, and because he is the smartest man in the organization we take his word for it with any questions. For example who appointed him to pick and choose Old Testament Law for us to live by today. The more he talks, the more confused we get and the more ignorant the UPC looks. No sure where the UPCI is going, but don't look good.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

PH,
Thanks for the thorough post on your perspective of DKB. I found many things very interesting.

One thing that jumped out at me was the quote you posted where DKB mentions that his district board is very concerned about Apostolic distinctives and wants him to do something about maintaining them in the district. I read that as a direct shot at Rex Johnson. That might explain RJ's appearance at the GNCM conference in Nashville. He may finally be feeling pressure from the cons after seemingly immune for years.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Surely his September statement shows there is some mounting pressure. When the DS says he is implementing a plan of action, I'm sure the Kilgores', Glass', and Johnson's of STX are meant to take notice. However, the interesting thing will be to see if he can stem the liberalizing tide even with his pro-active agenda.

Furthermore, RJ's appearance at the GNCM conference probably has more to do with the appointment of his brother-in-law, Scott Jones, as the GNCM chairman. I am sure that David and Rex have history but it seems clear that Rex is a veritable "untouchable" and if he ever leaves it will be when he is good and ready.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Very interesting thread.

I will say this. DKB is a "by the book" leader, and he's the one who wrote a very good portion of said book.

The liberals and conservatives better clean house. He will govern according to the Manual, and I'm pretty sure he won't abide anybody thumbing their nose at it.

No ultracons or uberlibs.

So, I don't think any fringe group should declare victory just yet, cause there just happens to be a guy at the top who went to law school.

The guy has respect for what is printed.

Further, I think a lot of very opinionated posters on internet forums are going to go in a witness protection program very soon, cause DKB is internet savvy, and I don't 'spect he'll tolerate open accusations between brothers, nor do I believe he will let posters openly question and/or defy published positions.

So, here's the deal. AFF is about to get very, very busy.

Anonymity is such a powerful thing. ;)

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I still barely know the guy (which is being generous even using the word "barely") other then he seems to be quoted on issues of standards as the ultimate holiness guru (With RR/RH catering to the more con and ultracon crowd). I would almost expect to see "The DB Commentary Bible" at some point.

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The UPC is about to get smaller, for better or for worse.

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Yessir Sheriff Anglin, I 'spect all of us lil' folk are jus hangin' on edge with these here politics and such like. :coffee2 Actually, the bolded statements you made were quite amusing:)

What of DB? I've picked up one of his books on doctrine, and he seems to present a very weak argument for "outward holiness". I'd imagine that would be the reason he conveniently spent a page or two on it, its hardly defensible.

I agree with crakjak. If DB thinks the same way now as he did when he wrote this particular piece, you should expect a steady exodus of well-informed saints and probably more splinterings in the ministry.

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Baron, I don’t think Paul feels he’s a Mafia Don but maybe a Media Don. I think his characterization of DKB being reminiscent to a zealous District attorney might be accurate.

I still can’t help but think after reading DKB’s September statement:

That DKB is speaking on both sides of his mouth. In one breath saying we need to be tolerate diverse views, allow for local church authority and give time for various approaches to evangelism and discipleship.

How long does one wait as the district board and leader for a pastor to teach his fold the UPCI way? Is he promoting bait and switch discipleship?

Yet, in the next breath he clearly states that those who are on the fence will not and should not be use in preaching, teaching, and leading worship if they don’t abide by the UPCI way.

It appears he knows that his hands are tied in many of these situations and can only show these wayward preachers the door by telling them to be consistent and withdraw but will not shove them out by his own hand.

More than anything, I am wondering if DKB learned any triage in law school because the org he’s about to commandeer is hemorrhaging. In 2007, there were well over 9400 ministers. This year at GC, Jerry Jones told the floor that there are now over 9100 ministers in the fellowship with 600 ministers added to the roll this year.

That’s a net loss of –300 ministers in two year, and if just 600 hundred were added this year, it is safe to say that with the WPF schism and others turning in their cards on both sides, well over 900 ministers have left in the last 2 years. Keep in mind these are established ministers with established churches. Yes, they have been replenished with fresh and young blood but what will compensate for the “brain and maturity” drain that this causes?

The org is also hemorrhaging money. PPH, according to the last financials, just lost another million dollars and now is 2.3 million dollars in the whole. KH slashed the budgets of many of the divisions and programs. There have been layoffs in PPH and HMD while still funneling money to his pet project “Global Impact”.

DBK will be best served to address the loss of seasoned ministers and monies before cleaning house ideologically.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I think the UPC has done much for world evangelization...however many years ago DB left a sour taste in my mouth over something he knew nothing but hearsay about writing us a letter to get us straight on something...IF that is his approach as GS he will drive away good people...before opinions are formed and letters are sent we need to know the whole story on any given subject.
I personally think he is super intelligent but sometimes a lack of knowledge and jumping into a situation often leaves a wrong impression...and I am sure that is what happened. I have used many things he has written but always remember a letter he wrote that was so far off base...but that was many years ago...many...however I never forgot such bad taste in someone I considered so smart...
I do love the UPC although I am not a member but there are many fine people there and lifetime friends. I have never been on a band wagon trying to destroy them. If I can help in any way I am always willing. Oh yes...I love the WPF, ALJC and whatever...ha....I love people...and there are good people in every group.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Oh yes. I wish him well and great sucess...

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So you got a letter too, huh? Talk about global impact!

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Ooooooooh, think I could get a letter? :woot

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WOW, Sister Alvear, I'm surprised you would post something like that on a public forum.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Paul Harvey - I think you've said a mouth full!

AND....it's right on.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I think she posted what did happen without bitterness, but fact.

I don't think these things should be swept under the rug, personally.

However, I will also say this, no one can please everyone. Just not possible. He is a man and subject to mistakes as are the rest of us.

I think time will tell what direction this organization will end up going in. But I believe change is on the horizon.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I do believe time will tell about anyone, anything and everything. I'm all in favor of discussing our differences in scriptural interpretation. I'll jump on that if I think I know what I'm talking about or want to share my thoughts.

What I won't do is bash and gossip about people and organizations. There is no excuse for it.

I know people that have left a bad taste in my mouth, but I'm not going to drag that onto a public forum. JMHO.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I think that is probably the better way. However, I also know the scripture talks about know them that labor among you. Does that mean you never let anything negative expressed?

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Honestly, saying that someone left a bad taste in your mouth doesn't seem like bashing to me. Just means whatever they did didn't settle well with you - I believe we have a right to say that.

Is it because of "who" it is being said about? I mean the bashing toward Democrats and Obama is endless.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

We are talking about a man that is not here to defend himself and I think it's just plain gossip.

Sharing negative experiences or concerns should be left within our individual families and with close friends. That is, if you have a friend that you feel you can trust to share things with. JMHO.

I didn't defend DB on the issue of dying the hair using Matthew 5:36. I felt it was taken out of context, in that, it speaks of not having control over things. You do have control over what color you can dye your hair. I think we can differ on scripture, but I wouldn't bash his character.

If Sister Alvear had a bad experience, she should keep that to herself. Mainly, because the whole story wasn't told and DB isn't here to defend his actions or explain why he acted like he did. Even if he was wrong, he should have been given the opportunity to defend himself.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Discussing our differences on political issues is the same thing as discussing our differences on scriptural matters. You can take both too far and we shouldn't.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Obviously there are people who like DKB, and those who don't. However, only time will tell what kind of GS he'll turn out to be. He may have made mistakes in the past, but that doesn't mean he'll repeat them in the future.

I've read a couple of letters he sent out (I think one of them was about the WPF thing, and the other was about hair?), and I liked both of them. I thought he tried to be fair, and stick to the Word in his answers. He didn't come across as harsh to ME, but maybe I'm not as perceptive as I should be.

Obviously I haven't read every letter he's ever written, so I can't vouch for him 100%. (And neither can PO.) :D

He's just entered a new arena, so I vote for giving him a chance to do his job. Personally, I think he'll be good at it. And I LIKE people who communicate their opinions on various matters--I hope he continues to address questions and concerns. IMO, part of the problem with KH is that he seems very hands off. Leaders need to be involved in the concerns and problems of the constituency. Even if they don't handle something correctly, it seems better than trying to avoid conflict altogether.

Now, if I am optimistic about someone, and I'm proven wrong, that's fine with me. I'd rather be wrong about someone's goodness, than be wrong about their...badness. :coffee2

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

PO, I consider you a friend on this forum and agree with 95% of your takes, but I think you've let emotion seep into this one and you're reading more into what Sis. Alvear has posted.

She has related a personal experience of hers with DKB that happened many years ago. She's not repeating hearsay or gossip, but a personal account of her dealings with the man.

She also didn't bash him or the UPCI, in fact, she went the extra mile to note that it happened many years ago and that she loves the UPCI. She simply points out that, in her informed opinion, she felt like he dealt badly with a situation without having facts.

How can that be wrong or unethical of her to do? Surely there isn't some sort of code of silence around men that lead religious organizations.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Nonsense, Mike. PO never overreacts to anything. She is perfectly rational, rarely emotional, and keeps her knees perfectly still. :coffee2

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I'm definitely interested in DKB's first 90 days.
Guys in South Texas certainly are too.

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I may be a lot of things, but I'm not a gossip and I avoid people that are - even if they are members of my church. There is not ONE single member of my church that EVER calls my house to talk about anyone nor do they corner me at church. They know that I don't discuss people. I will with my husband though! :D

I was thinking of people who have hurt me in the organization - I would never discuss that on this forum for everyone to read. People are just people....but that's just me.

I know many good things about DB - who he is and what he has done so - yes - I may be a little emotional. I certainly won't erect a statute to him. He is simply just a man that I happen to respect and disagree on several doctrinal issues.

But, it is not really about DB at this point. I was just shocked that Sis. Alvear would post that someone left a bad taste in her mouth. It seemed a bit out of character for her. Saying he left a bad taste in her mouth is bashing him, IMO.

If I related a story that happened "years ago" means I didn't get over it and move on and haven't let him move on either. Perhaps through experience he has changed a few things - we are left with the idea that he hasn't. That's not fair.

Sorry, but this just doesn't sound very good to me. Not only does she bring up the past, but doesn't elaborate, leaving it to speculation. He isn't even here to defend his actions - it's pure gossip and I don't agree with it.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Guess what? My User name isn't BRATTI is it? :toofunny Toe torry, I couldn't stop myself!!! :toofunny

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

And, what does it say about my psyche that I chose that name for myself? :D

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That you are at least honest and know that you are a BRAT! :toofunny

I just keep - Pressing On........... :D

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

It's entertaining to watch you two!

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Does this mean they will have to appoint a new DS for STX?

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Yes! And ironically, Rex Johnson gets the nod! haha

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

Don't they have to vote?

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I mean no harm just am saying I personally LONG time ago recieved a PERSONAL letter from him over a situation in Brazil that he had NO FIRST hand knowledge about. I considered the letter a rebuke from someone I have never met and someone that KNEW zero about a pastor that left the UPC...lol...I just thought if he wanted to rebuke(?) anyone he should have heard both sides then decided...
A family left our work..went UPC then came back...we never took their church and in fact that pastor left our work again after many years and started his own work...we are friends with the family and it is their plans to spend a part of the month of December at our house.

I never even answered the letter...I did not feel I owed any explanation to him...I was only saying at one time I thought of him as being kinda...military...HOWEVER everyone has their own personality and I am sure He is a great man and a man of God.

People just change organizations...it is a natural thing...I personally have helped people build their own churches that have left us...and Brother Alvear has given several buildings to help others...

Many years ago there was a mentality that you were UPC or lost...thank the Lord many things have changed over the years. I personally admire the UPC and Brother Frank Leman and Brother Harry Scism dedeicated two of our children to the Lord.

Brother Norris was one of the greatest missionaries that ever graced Brazil...and he was UPC.

I only hope and am sure he is more opened minded than a fleeting opinion I once had of him..and I am sure life teaches us all lessons...

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I like Rex Johnson:thumbsup

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

I apologize if I have offended you. My husband told me to drop the subject and so I will.

Re: DKB: The Leader
 

May God bless him and I would say he has a great job ahead of him.

I am not offended...if I offended you it was not meant to be...

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CHA-CHING! Renda, you are spot on!