From Gang Leader to Evangelist: The Redemption Story of Nicky Cruz
Introduction
Nicky Cruz was previously considered one of New York City’s most dreaded gang bosses. He led the legendary Mau Maus gang, and his life was marked by violence, crime, and hatred. But a heavenly experience with Jesus Christ entirely changed him. Today, he is a world-renowned evangelist who preaches the gospel and leads many to Christ.
This is the incredible true story of how God’s love broke through the hardest of hearts.
A Childhood Marked by Pain and Rejection
Nicky Cruz was born in Puerto Rico in the late 1930s to a family steeped in witchcraft and spiritualism. His parents worshiped Santería, a religion that combines African customs and Catholicism.
“My parents called me the son of Satan. They abused me emotionally, mentally, and physically.” — Nicky Cruz
Feeling unloved and rejected, Nicky ran away from home at the age of 15 and moved to New York City to live with his brother. But instead of finding freedom, he found himself drawn into a life of crime and gang violence.
Rising to Power in the Streets
In the 1950s, gang violence dominated New York City, and Nicky rapidly became connected with the Mau Maus, one of Brooklyn’s most dreaded gangs. By the age of 16, he was their leader.
Nicky embraced a life of brutality, theft, and murder. He had no fear, no remorse, and no hope.
“I was an animal. I had no feelings. I would hurt anyone who got in my way.”
The police, social workers, and even psychologists gave up on him, labeling him “incorrigible”—a hopeless case. But God had other plans.
An Encounter with a Preacher
In 1958, a humble country preacher from Pennsylvania named David Wilkerson arrived in New York City with one mission: to preach the gospel to gang members.
When he met Nicky and told him “Jesus Christ loves you,” Nicky responded with anger, threatening to kill him.
“I spit in his face and told him, ‘You come near me again, and I will kill you!’”
But David Wilkerson wasn’t afraid. He continued preaching, telling Nicky that no matter how much he fought against God, Jesus still loved him.
These words haunted Nicky. He had never heard of a love like this—unconditional, forgiving, and patient.
The Night Everything Changed
One night, David Wilkerson held an evangelistic event and invited Nicky and his gang to attend. Expecting a fight, Nicky showed up armed and ready for trouble.
But as he sat there, listening to Wilkerson preach about the love of Jesus Christ, something broke inside of him.
For the first time, Nicky felt the weight of his sins. He realized that despite all the evil he had done, Jesus still loved him and was calling him to a new life.
That night, he walked to the altar and surrendered his life to Jesus Christ.
“I fell to my knees, and I began to cry like a baby. I felt God’s love flood my heart.”
In that moment, the hate, anger, and violence inside of him disappeared. He was completely transformed.
A New Life in Christ
After giving his life to Jesus, Nicky Cruz left gang life forever. He dedicated himself to following Jesus and sharing his testimony.
• He went to Bible school and began preaching about God’s power to change lives.
• He reconciled with former gang members, leading many to Jesus.
• He eventually became an international evangelist, preaching to millions.
“If Jesus can change me, He can change anyone.”
His incredible story was later told in David Wilkerson’s best-selling book, The Cross and the Switchblade, which was made into a movie starring Pat Boone and Erik Estrada.
Lessons from Nicky Cruz’s Testimony
1. No One is Beyond God’s Reach
Nicky was one of the most violent gang leaders in New York, yet God’s love reached him. No matter how lost someone is, Jesus can transform them.
2. The Power of Persistent Evangelism
David Wilkerson didn’t give up on Nicky, even when he was threatened. His boldness and persistence led to Nicky’s salvation. This reminds us to never stop praying and witnessing to the lost.
3. God’s Love is Stronger than Hate
Nicky’s life was fueled by anger and violence, but God’s love broke through and changed him forever.
Conclusion: Jesus is Still Transforming Lives
Nicky Cruz’s experience serves as a strong reminder that no one is too far gone for Jesus. If you or someone you love is dealing with a life of crime, violence, or hopelessness, consider this:
Jesus is the answer. He can break every chain and make you new.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Do you need prayer or want to give your life to Jesus? Call out to Him today—He is ready to change your life!
📢 Call to Action
• Share this testimony to encourage others who need hope.
• Pray for those still trapped in gang life, that they may encounter Jesus.
• Read The Cross and the Switchblade to learn more about Nicky’s story.
Last modified: March 14, 2025
