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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 Jesus reigns supreme over all nations and human authorities, asserting that no earthly power, including political parties or businesses, holds true dominion. He reminds us that God alone is in control, and all earthly rulers are insignificant in comparison to His authority. Wilkerson urges believers to allow Jesus to govern their lives, guiding their actions and thoughts according to His Word, which leads to true blessing and joy. He highlights the futility of human pride in power, reminding us that all nations are merely dust in God's eyes.
Don't Be Fooled, Jesus Reigns
Jesus rules the nations of the world. The Bible tells us, “He rules by His power forever; His eyes observe the nations; do not let the rebellious exalt themselves” (Psalm 66:7). “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all” (Psalm 103:19). Don’t be fooled, our country is not ruled by Republicans, Democrats or any human authority. It is not ruled by Wall Street or big business entities. No power, earthly or supernatural, rules America or any other nation. God alone is in control. He sits as King of kings and Lord of lords, ruling and reigning over all creation from his heavenly throne. I am amused whenever I hear politicians boast about our country’s power, how we established ourselves as the most powerful nation on earth. We did nothing of the kind. All the nations, kings, dictators and presidents of the world are mere specks of dust in God’s eyes. Our Lord rules over them all, pulling down one authority and raising up another. “Behold, the nations are as a drop in a bucket, and are counted as the small dust on the scales; look, He lifts up the isles as a very little thing … All nations before Him are as nothing, and they are counted by Him less than nothing and worthless” (Isaiah 40:15, 17). If Christ rules as the supreme authority over his kingdom, and we are his subjects, then our lives must be governed by him. What does it mean, exactly, for us to be governed by Jesus? According to the dictionary, to govern means “to guide, direct, control all actions and behavior of those under authority.” In short, Jesus must be allowed to control all of our actions and behavior. He must guide and direct our lives daily, including our every thought, word and deed. Allow your King, Jesus, to govern your life through his Word, then you will be blessed and your life filled with his joy.
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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.