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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 John the Baptist, despite not witnessing the events of Pentecost, found his greatest joy in hearing the voice of Jesus. He illustrates that true fulfillment comes not from miraculous signs but from a personal relationship with Christ, where His voice brings joy and direction. Wilkerson argues against the notion that God no longer speaks to individuals today, asserting that believers can still hear His voice if they are willing to listen. He encourages the congregation to remain open to God's communication, despite the potential for misuse of spiritual gifts. Ultimately, the joy of hearing Jesus' voice is presented as a profound and personal experience for every believer.
Better Than Pentecost
John the Baptist never made it to Pentecost! He saw none of the cloven tongues of fire nor did he hear the mighty rushing wind. He did not see Jerusalem shaken and multitudes converted. But John said his joy was fulfilled! He had heard something better than the rushing wind—better than good reports—better than the sounds of a joyful bride. He had heard the Savior’s voice. “He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled” (John 3:29). John tasted of the greatest joy a follower of Jesus can know. He said, “I stood still and I heard him talk to me. His voice made my heart leap. He talked to me personally. I listened to my Lord and that’s my joy. Just hearing his voice.” John could say, “O yes, I loved him. I worshipped at his feet and told him how unworthy I was. But my joy is not in what I said to him, my joy is in what he spoke to me! I heard his voice, and I rejoice just in the sound of that voice.” Some people teach that the Lord no longer speaks to men except through the revealed Word. They cannot believe men can be directed and blessed by hearing that still small voice today. Jesus said, “My sheep know my voice; they hear when I call…another they will not hear….” Nowadays we are afraid of all the abuses, afraid we will be led to revelations contrary to the Word of God. But, all the abuses are not God’s fault. Every fake vision, false prophecy, false leading is a direct result of man’s own pride and self-will. Men abuse every gift of God. Nevertheless, God still speaks directly to the hearts of those willing to hear. “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken unto us by his Son…” (Hebrews 1:1 NKJV). “Therefore, as the Holy Ghost says, Today, if you will hear his voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 3:7 NKJV).
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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.