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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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David Wilkerson emphasizes Christ's promise of peace, reminding believers that despite the turmoil and fear that may plague their hearts, Jesus offers a peace that surpasses worldly understanding. He highlights that Jesus came to deliver us from fear, allowing us to serve Him in holiness and righteousness, regardless of life's challenges. The sermon reassures that peace is available even in suffering and uncertainty, as Jesus, the Prince of Peace, provides comfort and strength through the Holy Spirit. Wilkerson encourages believers to embrace this supernatural peace, which is a core aspect of the gospel and a gift for all who trust in Christ.
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Christ's Glorious Promise of Peace
Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). Many Christians have troubled hearts and some live in fear, secretly plagued with panic, turmoil and sleepless nights. For many, peace comes and goes, leaving them worried, restless and battered by stress. Yet, Zacharias prophesied that the Messiah would come “to grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life” (Luke 1:74-75). Beloved, Jesus came to this earth and died for sinful man so that we could walk with God without fear and enjoy his peace all the days of our lives! This includes times of suffering, turmoil, testing, and uncertainty. It means both good days and bad days. No matter what comes our way, we are to enjoy peace. Jesus is the Prince of Peace! At his birth the angels sang, “Peace on earth” (see Luke 2:14) and he promised of himself, “In Me you may have peace” (John 16:33). Peace is what the gospel is all about: “The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ” (Acts 10:36). In this world we will face tribulation, persecution and fiery trials. We will be tempted and we will suffer for the sake of Christ. Still we are to serve him in righteousness, full of peace and joy in the Holy Spirit at all times. Paul’s prayer for all believers was this: “May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all” (2 Thessalonians 3:16). Think of it — peace in every circumstance! Truly that is supernatural but it is available to all who have been justified by faith and reach out to the Savior.
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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.