David Wilkerson: Earth-Shattering Calamity is About to Happen. Stock up on Food.
- Posted by: Todd
- Posted on: Mon, March 09, 2009
- Viewed 155
- (85) comments so far
Are there really any other choices?
I am not saying that Wilkerson is trying to dupe anybody (as in #3). But I am not saying that #1 is correct either.
Personally, I always have a bit of a problem with God speaking directly and specificially to one person, particularly in an audible voice; kinda like the way God does with Pat Robertson every December. Particularly when it turns out the God is wrong more than half the time. Call my cynical and skeptical, but I just have a hard time believing #1 with my whole heart. Maybe I’ll feel different if/when God speaks that directly and audibly to me.
It reminds me of the lady who comes up and says that God told her that she was supposed to sing a certain solo. I told her that God definitely hadn’t told me that (and, by the way, she couldn’t sing.)
It would be kind of like me telling you that God told me that I was supposed to come to your house for dinner today.
OK… back to the matter at hand. How do you take this word from Wilkerson? What’s your choice: #1, #2, or #3? And is there really any other choice?
Are you running to the grocery store to stock up on canned food items? Are you laughing this off? Or are you seriously thinking about what might happen?
I’d love to hear your input…
You can read Wilkerson’s full blog post on the topic here...
Todd
Over the weekend, famed evangelist says he felt "compelled by the Holy Spirit" to send out an urgent message to all of his friends all over the world. Here is what he said (all caps included):
AN EARTH-SHATTERING CALAMITY IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN. IT IS GOING TO BE SO FRIGHTENING, WE ARE ALL GOING TO TREMBLE - EVEN THE GODLIEST AMONG US.
Practically speaking, Wilkerson advises to "lay in store a thirty-day supply of non-perishable food, toiletries and other essentials."
When I read things like this, I think that this message, and its messenger, in particular, has to be one of three things:
1. Wilkerson is right: this is a legitimate message that Wilkerson heard from God that we need to take seriously and heed.
2. Wilkerson is wrong; God didn't tell him this and it won't happen; but Wilkerson truly feels this is a legitimate message and that God told him to tell everyone (Wilkerson is duped)
3. Wilkerson is wrong; God didn't tell him this and it won't happen; and Wilkerson is trying to dupe us all for some good publicity.
Comments
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CS on Mon, March 09, 2009
As I understand it, there is, “prophecy,” as in, “to speak truth about something,” and, “prophecy,” as in, “to make a prediction about the future.” This qualifies as the latter.
Most prophecies in the Bible were specific with places and times. Wilkerson’s statement lacks a concrete definition of a time in which this immolation of major cities will occur, which makes it a little suspect. And, because he’s saying that this was laid upon him by God, he runs the risk of being labeled of being a false prophet, which can damage his reputation and his ministry’s perception, at the very least.
Now, I don’t have to be a prophet to say that with all of the uncertainty in today’s world that it would be wise to have food in reserve and to be aware of coming problems. Especially with things like the news overnight of the saber-rattling of North Korea and Iran. And I could say that this instability is ripe for causing global problems, given the past history of this planet. However, I would be reticent to put on the mantle of a prophet in saying so.
Additionally, didn’t the Bible say that aside from the final two prophets in Revelation that there are no more prophets for now (Matthew 11:13, Luke 16:16)? Just pondering…
—
CS
David Copeland on Mon, March 09, 2009
Many Old Testament prophets prophesied things they never lived to see happen in their life time. Yet they believed they would. Were they wrong? We see them unfold before our very eyes daily! Thousands of years later! But if your doctrine doesn’t allow you to believe that prophecy is for today, you’ve discredited and discounted the man already. I agree…the fruit loops in the Pentecostal/Charismatic church (which I AM a part of) have brought great reproach with prophecies that were totally not from God!
As for the rapture sweeping us away before anything bad happens, tell that to the people affected by Katrina! While I believe in the rapture of the church, Americans (esp. American Christians) feel like God owes them total protection…that because of who we are we shouldn’t have to face any kind of difficulty. I think this is one of the main reasons people who call themselves Christian in America (according to USA Today 3/9/08) has dropped more than 11% since 1990.
Tony Whittaker on Mon, March 09, 2009
Several thoughts;
1) Does Wilkerson’s life measure up to his talk? Does he use such pronouncements for self-glory or fund-raising? (As far as I know, the answers are yes and no.)
2) Does he have ‘form’ in making predictions which were subsequently vindicated? (I seem to recall he did some years ago, for instance, predict a time of considerable financial recession which would hit churches which had over-mortgaged themselves on building projects. Of course, it is possible for even a godly balance leader to make mistaken pronouncements with all the right motives, such as someone predicting that revival would break out in UK at the end of a certain year. And it’s possible to over-nuance and exaggerate something containing the truth.
3) We have probably not begun to see the full extent of the recession. Which of course, as ever, will hit the poorest and most vulnerable the hardest. The urban poor will not lie down patiently in the face of financial hardship, property repossession, inadequate unemployment benefit, etc, like the newsreels of people in the 30s.
To consider ways to do more urban ministry, more effectively, seems one important response, whether or not this warning is totally valid or not!
Blessings
Tony
Jim on Mon, March 09, 2009
It would be easier to question this warning, if he was the only one who has given this type of warning regarding Christ’s immenent return, and the worldly calamities that will precede this event. In the last two months, I’ve heard David Jeremiah, Chuck Swindol, Chuck Colson, Ruth Graham, and John Hagee, just to name a few, also referring to the same immediacy of Christ’s return and the calamities that will precede His return. So, with all of these Pastors and teachers, who come from very different walks of life and ministries, it seems more than a coincidence that all are saying, essentially, the same thing. It seems one would be wise to seriously consider the multitude of warnings that are coming from various ministries with Pastors of impeccable lives and ministries. I, for one, believe these multiple warnings that are coming from multiple ministries need to be taken seriously, even if the events don’t occur within the next few weeks or months, it doesn’t mean that these warnings are not to be taken seriously, regardless of Christ’s time table.
Gordon on Mon, March 09, 2009
In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus said: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where theives break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where theives do not break in and steal; for where your treasure is, there is your heart also.”
Chuck on Mon, March 09, 2009
By the way, speaking of a potential calamity did anyone hear that an asteroid just missed the earth last week? Seems like one of the prophets out there would have caught wind of this one. To me it was just one more reminder that all of our days our numbered and a gift.
David Curtis on Mon, March 09, 2009
I have to go somewhere between option 2 and option 3. I can’t say that he is intentionally trying to dupe people but with as vague as he is being it is hard to be take him seriously here.
I could very easily say the same thing and then find some calamity around the world to support my claim/warning. It is the same kind of trickery that they use when it comes to horoscopes and “readings”. Keep it general and vague and people will find a way to make it come true.
If God’s foreknowledge is exhaustive and he was intending to use Mr. Wilkerson to warn the world of pending disaster, then why not give the full details?
kim zweygardt on Mon, March 09, 2009
One thing that I find kind of interesting is that not too long ago, it was common for most households to have a stockpile of foods “in case of emergency.” People had gardens and canned food and we “stored up for the winter.” Proverbs 6:6-8 tells us to observe the ant that prepares its provisions during the summer, & gathers its food during harvest.” We no longer do this as a country, but I live in a place that still does because of weather emergencies. With all night grocery stores, etc. it doesn’t seem possible that we wouldn’t have a ready supply, but when I lived in Houston, the “run” on supplies—toilet paper, batteries, etc. created a shortage when a Hurricane was predicted to make landfall. Shelves of the “Big Box” stores were empty, so if you snoozed, you losed (to make it rhyme.:0)
Rightly or wrongly, about whether this came from God or not, it really isn’t a ridiculous plan in light of the world we live in, to do what the Bible says and keep a few extra supplies on hand. Creative storage—under the bed for canned goods, very top of closets, etc. it is possible to keep some extra things and buying a little at a time doesn’t make it hurt the pocket book as much. Personally, I look at it like we like to say about the gospel to someone who doesn’t believe, but what is the cost if I’m right and you’re wrong? What is the cost to the people of NYC if they don’t prepare and David Wilkerson is right? Just some other thoughts and JMHO
phil dilernia on Mon, March 09, 2009
CS ... I’m not in agreement with your assessment of either passage you quoted. It seems to me that these passages are stating that all previous prophecies were pointing towards Jesus and not that there would be no more prophecies. Otherwise how would you explain the Book of Revelation or even Jesus’ prophecies that were spoken by Jesus after the prophecies that you referred to?
As far as this man is concerned I have no opinion since I know nothing of him. But two general principles - from scripture - apply.
1- If he is wrong then the prophecy was not from God
2- If it was not from God then this man should NOT be allowed to preach or teach anymore in the church and he should no longer be given the publicity he obviously currently enjoys. It would be damaging to the current church and delay further the next coming of Christ.
WallyGator on Mon, March 09, 2009
I pretty much agree with Holly’s post. However, we must remember that prophecy is not so much foretelling as it is forthtelling. I believe it’s good common sense to have emergency stores on hand. Also, I believe Christians will endure tribulation before “The Tribulation.”
Casey Sabella on Mon, March 09, 2009
Hmmmm.
I read The Vision in 1973. Read it again. It was not all correct. Wilkerson said that real estate would become the most valuable commodity on earth and would continue to rise in value. Ooops! Many of the predictions were true; but some could be easily predicted by projecting cultural changes ahead 10-20 years.
I am a strong believer in prophecy. As such, I am equally a strong believer in judging prophecy as scripture prescribes.
Prophetic utterances in the NT never had nor ever should have equality with scripture. Frankly, 85-90% of what I have heard or read as prophecy has not measured up. (I can see why Paul warned not to despise it!) Too many crackpots proclaim too many things that ultimately destroy lives, thus dishonoring our Lord.
David is a proven commodity. I respect him, but I am not stock piling food. I also recognize that David’s paradigm deeply affects his pronouncements. He is Arminian in outlook and remnant theology is his long held belief. Through the years, I notice that he tends to judge harshly those with whom he disagrees theologically. I believe he is sincere, but I am troubled at the abject terror this kind of “word” is apt to create. It also tends to produce a bunker mentality in those that heed the word, pressing people towards remnant theology (i.e.” ...only a small remnant of the whole church will be saved - and we’re not too sure about you…”)
Bottom line: Leaders: discern the word the best you can. If God isn’t confirming it to via scripture and other confirming instances, shelve it until He does.
kerry on Mon, March 09, 2009
I have read from this man for yrs, I have actually been on his mailing list for over 20 yrs. All I can say is read his words carefully he has been very acurate in his past. God does have people who can discern his voice in this world. I have seen people and many preachers take the high road for the pleasing of men, Bro. David has never done that, with all the T.V. preachers out in our air waves there is no warnings much, now there is some who warn, but Bro. David has been warning us for yrs. I meet and seen Nicky Cruz as a Child and he had an impact upon me and he was saved by Bro. David’s preaching in New York City, see the movie the “Cross and the Switchblade” that is the story of the beginnings of Bro. David on his national stage so to speak. I bought a book a while back published in 1998 By Bro. David it’s called “America’s last call” - On the brink of FINANCIAL holocaust, it lays it on the line as to where we are right now 2009. It was written 1998 - that 11 yrs ago. Another book is an old one called “Set the trumpet to thy mouth” it is worth a look at. In conclusion do not just pass his words by, God’s ways are a mystery. God’s time table is moving, read the Book Called the Bible.
God Bless to all the fellow workers in Christ vineyard…..
Richard on Mon, March 09, 2009
One thing that I see missing in all this is that of the word ‘prophecy’…
My understanding of the ‘word’ is a prophet is one who ‘speaks forth’ the WORD of God…
So indeed anything that we say should be speaking forth the Scriptures! We can sensationalize any of the world events today including the socializing of America! Preach the Gospel-the Good News! That’s would the people need to hear! And again be warned about saying ‘thus says the Lord…’ Because the Scriptures indeed say if you screw up on even one prophecy and it doesn’t come to pass… you are indeed to be stoned! Since we don’t stone anymore (perhaps we should!) May the credibility of these “prophets” should be shunned!
Jeanette on Mon, March 09, 2009
Stocking up on groceries can’t do any harm. Let’s remember, Noah was disregarded in his day. Sure way to know if it was the Lord, wait and see if it comes to pass.
iggy on Mon, March 09, 2009
To me it is more that there is a spirit of fear that is behind it. Jesus states over and over to “Fear not”… and yet, as I read DW’s statements there is this fear aspect that seems to come out of it.
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