The Pursuit of God for Believers

The 2009 reprint of the 1948 first edition highlights the life and contributions of Aiden Wilson Tozer (1897-1963), a significant figure in American Christianity. Tozer was not only a pastor but also a preacher, author, magazine editor, speaker at Bible conferences, and a spiritual mentor. His journey began in a small farming community in western Pennsylvania, where he experienced a transformative conversion during his teenage years in Akron, Ohio.

Five years post-conversion, in 1919, Tozer, despite lacking formal theological training, accepted his first pastoral role, marking the beginning of an impressive 44-year ministry. In addition to his pastoral work, Tozer was a prolific writer, having authored over 40 books throughout his life. Two of these, The Pursuit of God and The Knowledge of the Holy, are particularly celebrated as Christian classics. Through these works, Tozer emphasizes the importance and possibility of fostering a deeper relationship with God, urging readers to seek a more profound spiritual life.

Tozer's lifestyle was marked by simplicity and a rejection of materialism. He and his wife opted never to own a car, favoring travel by bus and train instead. Even after achieving a level of recognition as a Christian author, Tozer demonstrated his commitment to helping others by donating a significant portion of his royalties to those in need.

Prayer held immense significance for Tozer, serving as a cornerstone of his personal life. His biographer, James L. Snyder, notes in In Pursuit of God: The Life of A.W. Tozer that "his preaching as well as his writings were but extensions of his prayer life." Tozer possessed a unique ability to challenge his listeners to examine themselves in light of divine truth, prompting them to reflect deeply on their own spiritual journeys.

Overall, Tozer’s life is a testament to a profound commitment to faith, service, and the pursuit of a closer relationship with God. His legacy continues to inspire many, urging followers to embrace a life of simplicity, prayer, and a relentless search for spiritual truth. Through both his ministry and writings, he left an indelible mark on Christian literature and thought, inviting generations to explore the depths of their faith.

product information: