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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 significance of seeking God's presence in our lives, illustrating how it transformed the lives of biblical figures like Abraham, Joshua, Gideon, and Jeremiah. He highlights that God's presence not only brings blessings and guidance but also empowers individuals to face challenges with courage and strength. The sermon encourages believers to pursue a deep relationship with God, assuring them that His presence is their greatest asset against any adversary. Wilkerson reminds us that regardless of external circumstances, the assurance of God's presence is what truly matters.
All That Matters Is God's Presence
The Old Testament is filled with many accounts of the blessings that came to those who had the presence of God with them. These stories are meant to encourage and exhort us to seek God’s presence in our lives. God’s presence was so evident in Abraham’s life that even the heathen around him recognized the difference between their lives and his: “Abimelech … spoke to Abraham, saying, ‘God is with you in all that you do’” (Genesis 21:22). This heathen king was saying, “Abraham, there’s something different about you. God guides you and blesses you wherever you go!” God promised Joshua that no enemy could stand against him when God’s presence was with him: “No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life … I will not leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and of good courage” (Joshua 1:5-6). When God’s Spirit is present with us, we can be strong and courageous — because no enemy can harm us. God told Gideon: “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor! … Go in this might of yours, and you shall save Israel” (Judges 6:12, 14). God was saying, “Gideon, there is a might in you that is so powerful, it can save Israel. And that might is my presence.” Even though Gideon lacked courage, God wanted to prove to him that any person can do great things when the Lord’s presence is with him. God warned Jeremiah that the whole nation would turn against him and reject his prophecies. Yet God promised, “They shall fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you; for I am with you to save you and deliver you” (Jeremiah 15:20). God is saying, “It doesn’t matter if the whole country turns against you, Jeremiah. All that matters is that my presence is with you. Be confident of that!” Seek him with all your heart and desire his presence in your daily life. Then you will experience the incredible glory of God.
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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.