A. W. Tozer

Biography

Aiden Wilson Tozer (1897-1963) was an American evangelical pastor, author, and spiritual mentor who profoundly influenced 20th-century Christian thought. Born into poverty in the tiny farming community of La Jose, Western Pennsylvania, Tozer was largely self-educated but became one of the most articulate voices in evangelical Christianity. His conversion came at age 17 in Akron, Ohio, when he overheard a street preacher saying, 'If you don't know how to be saved... just call on God, saying, Lord, be merciful to me a sinner.' Climbing into his family's attic that evening, Tozer heeded this simple advice and surrendered his life to Christ.

Without formal theological education, Tozer accepted his first pastoral position in 1919, beginning a 44-year ministry with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. He served as pastor in several congregations while developing his reputation as a profound spiritual thinker and writer. In 1931, he began writing for the Alliance Weekly (now Alliance Life), which became the platform for his literary career. His most famous work, 'The Pursuit of God,' published in 1948, established him as a household name among evangelicals and is considered one of the greatest Christian classics of the century.

Tozer's ministry was characterized by his role as an 'evangelical mystic' who emphasized the necessity of experiencing God personally rather than merely knowing about Him intellectually. In 1950, he became editor of Alliance Weekly, a position he held until his death. Despite his literary success, Tozer lived simply, never owning a car and often giving away his book royalties to those in need. His dedication to writing and ministry, while admirable, came at the cost of family relationships. He died suddenly of a heart attack in Toronto in 1963, leaving behind a theological legacy that continues to challenge and inspire Christians worldwide.

Major Works & Series

Literary Significance & Legacy

A.W. Tozer revolutionized evangelical thought by bridging the gap between Protestant theology and Christian mysticism, introducing evangelical audiences to the rich tradition of contemplative spirituality. His emphasis on experiencing God personally rather than merely studying about Him academically challenged the intellectualism that had dominated much of Protestant Christianity. Tozer's accessible yet profound style made complex spiritual truths understandable to ordinary believers, while his prophetic voice called the church back to authentic spiritual life.

His influence extends far beyond denominational boundaries, with his works being embraced by Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and Protestants alike. Tozer's integration of classical Christian mysticism with evangelical fervor created a unique theological voice that continues to shape contemporary spirituality. His writings have inspired countless pastors, theologians, and lay Christians to pursue deeper relationship with God, and his books remain bestsellers decades after his death, cementing his place among the most important Christian authors of the 20th century.

Best Starting Points

• The Pursuit of God
  Essential starting point showcasing Tozer's call for intimate relationship with God rather than mere intellectual knowledge. This timeless classic challenges readers to move beyond surface Christianity to deep spiritual experience.
• The Knowledge of the Holy
  A profound exploration of God's attributes that demonstrates Tozer's ability to make complex theological concepts accessible and transformative for everyday believers.
• The Divine Conquest
  Complements 'The Pursuit of God' by exploring how God pursues us, offering hope and encouragement for those struggling in their spiritual journey.
• The Root of the Righteous
  A collection of Tozer's shorter writings that provides an excellent sampling of his prophetic voice and practical spiritual wisdom.

Famous Characters

• The Seeking Soul
  The earnest believer who appears throughout Tozer's writings, representing every Christian's hunger for authentic spiritual experience and deeper knowledge of God.
• The Complacent Christian
  The target of Tozer's prophetic criticism - believers satisfied with surface-level faith and intellectual knowledge without genuine spiritual transformation.
• The Mystical Tradition Saints
  Historical figures like Meister Eckhart and Brother Lawrence whom Tozer frequently cited as examples of authentic spiritual pursuit and intimacy with God.
• The Modern Evangelical
  Tozer's contemporary church-goer, often portrayed as distracted by religious activity and missing the essence of true spiritual life and worship.
• The Self-Educated Seeker
  Tozer himself, representing the possibility of deep spiritual insight and theological understanding through personal study, prayer, and devotion rather than formal education.
• The Prophetic Voice
  The role Tozer embodied, calling the church back to authentic spirituality and challenging believers to move beyond religious formalism to genuine encounter with God.