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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's sermon 'Deep Water' emphasizes the desperate plea for God's rescue in times of overwhelming trouble and sin. He reflects on the imagery of sinking in deep mire and the feeling of being flooded by life's challenges, urging believers to call out to God for deliverance and mercy. Wilkerson highlights the importance of acknowledging our weaknesses and the need for divine intervention, encouraging the faithful to trust in God's timely help and compassion.
Scriptures
Deep Water
“I sink in deep mire, Where there is no standing; I have come into deep waters, Where floods overflow me” (Psalm 69:2). Save me, O God, For my soul is being flooded With foolishness. My sins are not hidden from Thee. I am sinking With no place to stand; I am in deep water. Floods overflow me; I wait for God to rescue me. My throat is dry From calling on Him. I weep and chasten my soul, Mocking my own weakness. Hear me speedily, God, And don’t hide your face. I need a comforter: Turn to me with tender mercy. Deliver me out of this mire. Let me not sink. Save me from this deep water: I am in real trouble— Danger. Don’t let the deep swallow me up. Let not the pit shut her mouth upon me. Make haste, O God, Tarry not; You are my help And deliverer.
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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.