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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 discusses the story of King Hezekiah, who faced death but prayed for and received an extension of life from God. Despite his miraculous recovery, Hezekiah fell into pride and materialism, neglecting to live humbly and gratefully for the years he was given. The sermon warns against the tendency to squander the gift of life on selfish pursuits rather than serving God and others. Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of living each day with purpose and gratitude after being spared from death. Ultimately, he challenges listeners to reflect on how they use their time and blessings.
Scriptures
Hezekiah—the Man Who Beat a Death Rap!
“In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to him, ‘Thus says the Lord: “Set your house in order, for you shall die and not live.”’ Then Hezekiah . . . prayed to the Lord” (Isaiah 38:1-2). He was a king riding the crest of victory, Delivered miraculously by God From King Sennacherib’s army. He was wealthy and renowned When sickness struck, Bringing him to the brink of death. The prophet warned, “Get ready to die It’s all over for you.” But the king loved life, And turning his face to the wall Cried, and prayed to the Lord For a new lease on life. God heard and gave him fifteen more years. But how should a man live Who has won over death? As so many do who survive A close call with death. Should he not live each day gratefully, Giving himself humbly to God and mankind? But the way of human flesh is not so. The king began to glory in his own worth— He sank in the mud of materialism, Parading his treasures before foreigners. A second message by the prophet was sounded Of judgment on his posterity For pride and ingratitude. And how many today have been given A new lease on life, Only to spend their borrowed years In selfish pursuit of things Which have no value? Eternity will reveal It would have been better For some to die Rather than beat the rap.
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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.