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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 Christ ascended not only to receive glory but to intercede for us in the heavenly tabernacle. He explains that Jesus' intercession counters Satan's accusations, declaring victory over our sins and ensuring we are free from condemnation. Furthermore, Christ enforces the blessings of Jubilee, reminding us of our legal freedom and the privileges we have as His children. Lastly, Jesus intercedes within our hearts, providing reassurance and strength in our relationship with the Father. This powerful work of intercession highlights the depth of Christ's love and commitment to our salvation.
Christ Ascended to Make Intercession
Just as the high priest ascended the stairs to the holy place on the day of atonement, our High Priest ascended into the heavenly tabernacle, " . . . a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands" (Hebrews 9:11). Jesus ascended not merely to enjoy the glory He deserves but to do a work on our behalf. The writer of Hebrews reminds us that Jesus' work in heaven is all for us: "He ever liveth to make intercession for [us]" (7:25). Christ does it all for us! What exactly does it mean that "He lives to make intercession for us"? I believe Jesus intercedes for us in three ways: First, some of us imagine Jesus standing before the Father, pleading with Him to show us mercy when we fail. But that is not the case. Christ's intercession for us has to do with Satan's accusations against us. You see, the devil comes to God's throne to accuse us of every failure and transgression. He cries, "I want justice. And if You are a just God, You will damn and destroy this person. He deserves it." But then, Jesus steps in. He does not have to persuade the Father of anything. Rather, He simply declares the victory of His cross. Then He turns to Satan and says, "Didn't you hear the trumpet sound? You have no claim over this child of Mine. Keep your hands off My property!" Second, Christ's intercession for us means He makes certain that we obtain and enjoy all the benefits provided by Jubilee. Just as the Levites enforced the law that provided every man with his just blessings, Jesus today enforces the privileges of Jubilee for us. He makes sure we know we are legally free. Third, Jesus intercedes in our own hearts, reconciling us with the Father. He continually answers our doubts and fears, and reminds us that we forgiven. We can trust in God's faithfulness to provide us with all the power and strength we need.
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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.