Dr. P.S. Wilkinson, Sr.

For years, I have heard about the preaching legend and legacy of Dr. Paschal (P.S.) Wilkinson, Sr.  Born on December 8, 1905, he went Upstairs on December 3, 1977, just five days shy of his 73rd birthday.  He was 72!  Growing up, I was often told he was one of the greatest pulpiteers of his generation; from pulpit acumen to preaching prowess, he was said to be in a class all his own.  

Beginning his preaching ministry at the age of 14, he is best known for his role as the Senior Pastor of New Light Baptist Church (San Antonio, Tx) for almost 45 years.  He also served for many years as the President of the American Baptist State Convention and apart of the Educational Board of the National Baptist Convention.  

For some years now, I have been trying to get a hold of a copy of the one book he had written, 'Pilate's Judgment Hall.'  This book is a collection of the sermons and messages preached from the pulpit of New Light.  Interestingly, when I was a teenage preacher, I had the opportunity to hear a tape of an older P.S. Wilkinson preaching.  Needless to say, it left an impression.  Considering myself a student of preaching and preachers, I have coveted the idea of attaining a copy of his book.  While I am certain a few preachers have a copy, I only personally knew of two - My father, and the late Rev. R. L. Sanders, who pastored for years the Mt. Gilead Church in Forth Worth, Texas.  

After about 10 years of searching, I happened to come across a copy of Wilkinson's book.  While the book was written in 1948, many of the pages missing, I have found a richness and depth to his preaching that is peerless and impressionable.  While I am, by far, no Pashcal Wilkinson, Sr., the single book has renewed my commitment to writing and written communication.  What I would give to have more of such a great preaching legend.  I am convinced that, as I struggle to refresh my mind with new, meaningful, and varying insights from God's Word and others, that each and every servant of God would build a legacy that is unique to their own calling.  I hope to share excerpts in the future of this great preaching legend.  It has blessed me tremendously.

Sunday in Retrospect

We had another awesome day in the God this past Lord's Day.   I am often amazed by God's amazement  and surprised by God's surprises.  Pastoring a congregation 141 years old and counting, one can find a sense of traditional monotony that seems just want what's always been.  However, it amazes me that God seems to just show His hand in diverse ways and forms beyond what we've just grown accustomed to.  

I continued my series on 'God's Got An Answer'.  I shared, 'God's Answer for Life's Uncertainty.'  Today we celebrated our graduates.  We had 7 graduates this year, one is away and graduated college.  She will be home shortly.  I'm looking forward to God using her to lead our young people, in some way.  

Here is my outline for this past Sunday's messages...

Outline

Text: Joshua 5:10-12

Subject: God’s Answer for Life’s Uncertainty

The Big Idea: God’s faithfulness to provide is seen and shown when the manna stops, the road ahead seems uncertain and the promise awaits.

1. God stops the manna to alter our appetites
2. God stops the manna to reform the focus of our faith
1. It requires a faith that plants (Work)
2. It requires a faith that is patient (Waiting)
3. God stops the manna to add new depth to our delight  

Grateful for the 5 who came forward today, including one as a candidate for baptism today.  Go be praised!