Book Review: David Wilkerson

The story of David Wilkerson's life has now been told by his son, Gary Wilkerson in the book David Wilkerson: The Cross, the Switchblade, and the Man who Believed.  I am ashamed to say that, I did not know the full breadth of this great man's life prior to this book apart from the famous account as told in The Cross and the Switchblade.  This book tells the story of David Wilkerson from his childhood and early years of ministry to the story of Teen Challenge, to his crusades, and finally to his ministry at Times Square Church and his tragic death.  It does not paint Wilkerson as a super-human spiritual saint, but as a real man who deeply loved Jesus and loved people, but battled his own struggles throughout life, especially with fully embracing God's love and grace for him.  This real portrayal has given me a deeper respect for this great saint.

For readers who know the story of Wilkerson and Nicky Cruz, much of the first part of the book will seem like repeat information.  However, we are given a better glimpse into Wilkerson's heart and motives behind his bold work among the gangs of New York.  What was of most interest to me where the years after the events of New York.  I was unaware of the broad impact of his crusades and his work, not only in preaching the Gospel, but also in ministering to the practical needs of the world.

I would easily put this book among one of the great Christian biographies that every Christian should read.  Wilkerson was not a perfect man, but no follower of Jesus has been perfect.  What we see in his life, though, is what God can accomplish in and through a man passionately in love with Him and fully surrendered to the work of the Kingdom of God.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”