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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 addresses the common desire to escape during crises, emphasizing that while many Christians may feel overwhelmed by life's burdens, true refuge is found in God. He highlights the biblical concept of cities of refuge for those in distress and reminds believers that the Lord is a strong tower where they can find safety. Wilkerson encourages the faithful to turn to Jesus in times of trouble, as He offers rest and salvation. The sermon underscores the importance of prayer and standing firm in faith, even when circumstances are challenging.
Running Away in Times of Crisis
Have you ever just wanted to run away from it all? But where would you go? And what would you do when you got there? You might be surprised if you knew how many good Christians secretly harbor momentary thoughts of walking away from everything. The thought of having no responsibilities and burdens sounds pretty enticing. Christ has set a goal for his followers — a life of total trust, childlike faith, and victory over all the power of the enemy — but many are still going through struggles. Even though they enjoy peace with God, they endure family pressures, illness, heartbreak and trials. God fully understands man’s impulse to run in time of crisis. That is why he provided Israel with cities of refuge where people in crisis could run for shelter and protection. Six cities were set aside so that any Israelite who was overwhelmed or in danger might “[flee] to one of these cities that he might live” (Deuteronomy 4:42). In times of trouble, there is no place to run but to the Lord. “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10). When many of Jesus’ disciples were forsaking him, he turned to the twelve and asked, “Will you run away, too, like the others?” Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:67-68). The child of God has a place to run to when he is bowed down with care. Hear the cry of the Lord, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me … and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29). You may never understand what you are going through at times, but when you feel swamped and fearful and deserted, flee to your secret place of prayer and pour out your heart to the Savior. Then do as Moses directed, “Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord” (Exodus 14:13).
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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.