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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 importance of discerning whether we are listening to men or to God, drawing parallels between the apostle John's revelation on Patmos and our own need for a 'Patmos' experience. He urges believers to set aside distractions and come boldly to God's throne, where they can receive mercy and grace. Wilkerson highlights that many Christians neglect this call, focusing instead on worldly activities, and stresses the necessity of prioritizing time alone with God to hear His voice. He reassures that one can maintain their responsibilities while still seeking a deeper connection with the Lord. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to listen to the Holy Spirit above all else.
Scriptures
Am I Listening to Men or God?
The apostle John was given a revelation of the glory of the exalted Christ: “A door [was] standing open in heaven. And the first voice … [said], ‘Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place after this.’ Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne set in heaven, and One sat on the throne” (Revelation 4:1-2). A door to heaven has been opened to us today, as well. Like John, we have been called to “come up here.” Scripture says, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). This call to come to the throne room has been most ignored by pastors and laypersons alike. Few believers truly know God’s voice and few ministers speak as his oracles. John’s time of isolation on the island of Patmos (see Revelation 1:9) was imposed on him by godless men. I believe people in the church need to have a “Patmos” experience — a self-imposed setting aside of one’s self for the purpose of seeking the face of God. Christians today make time to watch television, shop or surf the Internet, communicate with others on social media, but few ever “come up” to God’s throne. Yet the Lord promises, “If you come up here, I’ll reveal to you my mercy and grace and show you things you have never seen before.” This does not mean we give up our job, our family, our witness. In fact, it is entirely possible to be a busy person and still have a Patmos experience. What matters is that we shut out every voice, activity and thing that hinders us from hearing the voice of the Lord. We are to concern ourselves with one focus: Am I listening to men or to the Holy Spirit? The Lord is pleased whenever you willingly submit yourself to a time alone with him. Once Christ becomes your sole focus, you will be able to receive discernment and guidance directly from above.
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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.