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David Wilkerson
David Wilkerson (1931 - 2011). American Pentecostal pastor, evangelist, and author born in Hammond, Indiana. Raised in a family of preachers, he was baptized with the Holy Spirit at eight and began preaching at 14. Ordained in 1952 after studying at Central Bible College, he pastored small churches in Pennsylvania. In 1958, moved by a Life Magazine article about New York gang violence, he started a street ministry, founding Teen Challenge to help addicts and troubled youth. His book "The Cross and the Switchblade," co-authored in 1962, became a bestseller, chronicling his work with gang members like Nicky Cruz. In 1987, he founded Times Square Church in New York City, serving a diverse congregation until his death. Wilkerson wrote over 30 books, including "The Vision," and was known for bold prophecies and a focus on holiness. Married to Gwen since 1953, they had four children. He died in a car accident in Texas. His ministry emphasized compassion for the lost and reliance on God. Wilkerson’s work transformed countless lives globally. His legacy endures through Teen Challenge and Times Square Church.
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Sermon Summary
David Wilkerson emphasizes God's unwavering promise to those He has called, using the example of the prophet Jeremiah who, despite facing persecution and suffering, remained steadfast in his divine mission. God reassures Jeremiah that He has equipped him with the words to speak and the strength to endure, urging him not to fear men or failure. This message extends to all Christians, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles and that God has placed His hand upon them, empowering them to fulfill their purpose. Wilkerson encourages believers to rise in faith, knowing that God is their protector and source of strength amidst adversity.
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A Promise for All Who Are Called
God gave the prophet Jeremiah a word to speak to Israel: “Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: ‘Behold, I will bring on this city and on all her towns all the doom that I have pronounced against it, because they have stiffened their necks that they might not hear My words’” (Jeremiah 19:15). Jeremiah’s words so incensed the chief governor of the temple that he was bound and tortured. Yet, in spite of his suffering, Jeremiah never doubted his calling. He knew he had been given a word from God. God went on to say to Jeremiah, “I planned a ministry for you and you are to build up my church. I want you to plant seeds of my good news, so don’t worry; I’ll give you every word to speak just when you need it. And don’t ever be afraid of men or fear failure. Remember, as long as you live, I am with you. Do not be discouraged but rise up in faith and do as I have commanded you. You have one divine purpose and that is to speak my mind” (see Jeremiah 1:9-17). Jeremiah tells us, “The Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the Lord said to me: ‘Behold, I have put My words in your mouth’” (1:9). What an incredible moment in this man’s life. How wonderful to know that God has put his hand on you, revealed his thoughts, and anointed you to speak for him. Then God added this word: “Do not be dismayed before their faces, lest I dismay you before them” (1:17). Beloved, this is God’s message to every Christian who has ever been called by him. He is telling us, “Don’t let anyone break you down! You have no reason to be confused or despairing. I have told you I am with you and there is no reason for burnout, no cause to quit. No matter what hardships you face or how badly people treat you, I have put mighty pillars around you and I am with you to deliver you!”
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David Wilkerson (1931 - 2011). American Pentecostal pastor, evangelist, and author born in Hammond, Indiana. Raised in a family of preachers, he was baptized with the Holy Spirit at eight and began preaching at 14. Ordained in 1952 after studying at Central Bible College, he pastored small churches in Pennsylvania. In 1958, moved by a Life Magazine article about New York gang violence, he started a street ministry, founding Teen Challenge to help addicts and troubled youth. His book "The Cross and the Switchblade," co-authored in 1962, became a bestseller, chronicling his work with gang members like Nicky Cruz. In 1987, he founded Times Square Church in New York City, serving a diverse congregation until his death. Wilkerson wrote over 30 books, including "The Vision," and was known for bold prophecies and a focus on holiness. Married to Gwen since 1953, they had four children. He died in a car accident in Texas. His ministry emphasized compassion for the lost and reliance on God. Wilkerson’s work transformed countless lives globally. His legacy endures through Teen Challenge and Times Square Church.