Musician's Life Before Finding Faith
John Wimber, born in Kirksville, Missouri, in the 1940s, grew up without any religious belief. By his own admission, he was a 'fourth-generation pagan.' Raised in Peoria, Illinois, in a poor family, John's early life was marked by hardship, with his parents' divorce and his father's struggles with alcohol. Despite these challenges, John found a path to success in music, becoming a talented musician and playing with the Righteous Brothers.
However, his lifestyle before conversion was far from peaceful. Chain-smoking and alcohol were constants, and he only knew Jesus as a curse word. His marriage to Carol, whom he met while playing in a band at her prom, was strained by depression. In 1962, as his marriage neared breaking point, John began exploring Christianity.
Dramatic Conversion Experience at Church
In 1963, he and Carol attended a Quaker church, where John experienced a dramatic conversion during a small Bible study group. 'I don't know if somebody pushed me or if I just kind of fell,' he recounted, finding himself on the floor, overwhelmed and calling out 'Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.' This moment marked a profound change. Carol recalled, 'It was right there, kneeling on the floor and sobbing... that John determined how he would spend the rest of his life – as a fool for Christ.'
Ministry Life and Vineyard Movement
After his conversion, John left his successful music career and enrolled at Azusa Pacific College to study Biblical Studies. He became an ordained Quaker minister and a passionate evangelist, leading numerous Bible studies and drawing hundreds to Christ. His ministry was characterized by an emphasis on intimacy with God and a belief in the modern-day relevance of signs and wonders.
Faith Through Illness and Legacy
John's faith was not without challenges. Diagnosed with sinus cancer in 1993 and facing a stroke in 1995, he wrestled with doubts and depression. Yet, his commitment to God remained steadfast. John passed away on November 17, 1997, at the age of 63, leaving a legacy of faith and the Vineyard Movement, which continues to inspire believers worldwide. Through it all, John gave glory to Jesus, whom he credited with the transformation of his life.
