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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 the necessity of surrendering to the Holy Spirit's guidance in our lives, asserting that true clarity and purpose come from walking in the Spirit. He illustrates how early Christians, like Peter, were directed by the Holy Spirit in their decisions, leading to a life free from confusion. Wilkerson highlights the practical benefits of this guidance, including direction in daily matters and the power to confront evil. He encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit's presence, which reveals the deep truths of God and fosters a relationship where direction flows naturally. Ultimately, he calls for a heart set on seeking God, promising that through praise and trust, deliverance will follow.
Direction From the Holy Spirit
God’s purpose for his children is that we surrender to the reign and rulership of the Holy Spirit: “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25). In other words, “If he lives in you, let him direct you!” The early Christians did not walk in confusion, because they were led by the Spirit. They consulted the Holy Spirit and he directed them. Walking in the Spirit means clarity of purpose and unclouded decision-making. We see many examples of being led by the Spirit in the New Testament. A good example is Peter: “While [he] thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him …” (Acts10:19). In another place, we read, “The Spirit told me to go with them, doubting nothing” (11:12). The Holy Spirit gave direction and Peter listened. There are many benefits of walking in the Holy Spirit. One benefit to those who ask: he will give you direction, warnings or whatever you need. “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). Jesus is not talking merely about prophecy and future events here, he is talking about your life. The Holy Spirit will lead you in very practical matters of your daily living. Walking in the Spirit also means never being overcome by demonic powers, even though Satan will try to intimidate you. Paul fought such harassment by the power of the Spirit: “Then Paul … filled with the Holy Spirit” confronted the evil spirit and brought down all the powers of darkness (see Acts 13:9-11). There comes a time when you have to stand up in the power of the Holy Spirit and say, “Enough! I command you in the name of Jesus to go!” But the highest form of walking in the Spirit is letting him teach you the deep, hidden things of God. Stand still in his presence and let the Holy Spirit show you the very heart of the Lord. When you do this, direction will come and you won’t even have to ask. Set your heart to seek him today and you will learn to know his voice. Start praising, singing, trusting God — and he will take care of your deliverance.
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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.