When the World Rages

Gary Wilkerson

In the days of the early church, this is what the body of believers said, “They lifted their voices together to God and said, ‘Sovereign Lord…who through the mouth of our father David, your servant, said by the Holy Spirit, Why did the Gentiles rage, and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers were gathered together, against the Lord and against his Anointed”’” (Acts 4:24-26, ESV). 

The Vision

David Wilkerson (1931-2011)

In this powerful prophetic vision from April 1973, David Wilkerson saw economic confusion, persecution, rebellious youth, natural disasters and more coming upon the earth as the birth pains leading to the birth of God's kingdom. The true follower of Christ need not fear because God has everything under control.

Why is Jesus So Hated?

David Wilkerson (1931-2011)

There were ten thousand or more reasons for people to love Jesus and not one reason to hate him. The four Gospels portray him as kind, patient, long-suffering, full of tenderness, forgiving, not willing that one person should perish. He is called a shepherd, a teacher, a brother, a light in darkness, a physician, an advocate, a reconciler. Jesus gave no cause whatsoever that he should be hated by anyone.

Choices

Too many options is leading to too many bad decisions in people’s lives; God is calling us to be faithful under his one ultimate authority.

Hated Because of Jesus’ Mission

David Wilkerson (1931-2011)

Jesus tells the church, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:10-12).

Why does the world hate the true church, its pastors and parishioners? A true Christian is loving, peaceful, forgiving and caring. Those who obey Jesus’ words are self-sacrificing, meek and kind.