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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 that God's blessings are meant to be shared, as illustrated by His promise to Abraham that through him all nations would be blessed. He challenges listeners to consider how they are blessing their own circles of family and friends, even amidst personal trials. Drawing on the example of David, who chose to bless others despite being cursed, Wilkerson highlights Jesus' command to love and bless our enemies. He reassures those who feel distant from God's blessings that a love for His Word and community indicates His presence and drawing near. Ultimately, true blessing is found in a closer relationship with God.
Scriptures
Blessing Others
God said to Abraham, "That in blessing I will bless thee . . . in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed" (Genesis 22:17-18). He was saying, "The reason I am blessing you, Abraham, is so that you can bless all the nations." Obviously, very few of us are called to bless entire nations but each of us has a circle of family, friends and colleagues. How many in your circle are being blessed by what the Lord is doing in you? Are your friends and family being blessed by Christ in you? When you start blessing others in the midst of your trials, you will know that God's hand of blessing is on you. This is what happened with David. When his enemies showed him no mercy, he testified, "Let them curse, but bless thou: when they arise, let them be ashamed; but let thy servant rejoice" (Psalm 109:28). David cried out to God for help and blessing as his enemies cursed him. Jesus commands us: "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). If you can keep this word, you are surely blessed of the Lord. Finally, those who are being blessed are being drawn ever closer to the Lord. God never blesses without drawing that person closer to Himself, urging, "Come closer to Me." Increasing nearness to Him is more of the blessing. Perhaps you still say, "I see no evidence of God's blessing in my life. My life isn't marked by any of these things you've mentioned. How can I have God's blessing?" Beloved, rejoice! Do you love His Word? Do you love coming to His house with other believers? Does your mind run to Jesus throughout the day? Do you talk to Him? If you can answer "yes" to any of these questions, you can rest assured that He is drawing you, blessing 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.