Gang Warlord Rules Brooklyn Streets
Nicky Cruz, born in Las Piedras, Puerto Rico, had a childhood steeped in darkness. His parents were deeply involved in witchcraft, and he suffered severe abuse. At 15, he was sent to New York City, where he quickly fell into gang life. By 16, he was the warlord of the Mau Maus, one of Brooklyn's most feared gangs. Violence was a way of life for Cruz, who faced multiple arrests and watched his best friend die in his arms.
Country Preacher Brings Hope
Amidst this turmoil, a country preacher named David Wilkerson entered Cruz's world, bringing a message of hope. Wilkerson told Cruz, "You can kill me and cut me into a thousand pieces and throw them right there on the street. But every piece will cry that Jesus loves you, Nicky!" These words pierced through Cruz's hardened exterior.
Gang Member Testimony Conversion
A few weeks later, at a rally in St. Nicholas Arena, Cruz found himself moved to tears as Wilkerson spoke again about Jesus' love and forgiveness. In that moment, Cruz surrendered his life to Jesus Christ, asking for forgiveness and feeling a weight lift from his soul.
Street Warlord Becomes Servant
Transformed, Cruz and some of his fellow gang members handed their weapons over to the police, symbolizing their commitment to a new path. Cruz immersed himself in the Bible, attended Bible college, and became a preacher. He returned to his old neighborhood, determined to share the message that had changed his life. Many, including the new leader of the Mau Maus, Israel Narvaez, also embraced this newfound faith.
Cruz's journey from gang warlord to a servant of Christ is a powerful testimony of Jesus' transformative power. He founded Nicky Cruz Outreach and TRUCE, reaching out to those trapped in cycles of violence and despair, just as he once was.
