A.W. Tozer, often called a “20th-century prophet,” wrote books that continue to stir hearts toward a deeper relationship with God. His words push readers to pursue holiness, humility, and worship. Here is an overview of some of his most well-known works, paired with Scripture that reflects their message.
The Pursuit of God
This is Tozer’s most famous book, written in 1948. It challenges believers to seek God above everything else and to live with a burning desire for His presence. Tozer reminds us that God can be both near and known when we seek Him with all our hearts.
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” — Jeremiah 29:13
The Knowledge of the Holy
In this book, Tozer explores the attributes of God. He explains truths like God’s holiness, omnipotence, and love in simple yet profound ways. Readers are encouraged to see God as He truly is, leading to deeper worship and reverence.
“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.” — Psalm 145:3
The Attributes of God Volume 1 with Study Guide: A Journey Into the Father's Heart
This work expands on what he began in The Knowledge of the Holy. Tozer unpacks God’s eternal nature, justice, and mercy, inviting readers to trust Him more fully. It’s both devotional and theological, blending head knowledge with heart devotion.
“For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” — Psalm 100:5
The Root of the Righteous
Here, Tozer writes about what true Christian living looks like. He warns against shallow faith and calls believers to deep, Spirit-filled lives that bear fruit. His words press the reader to surrender fully to God.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” — John 15:5
The Crucified Life: How To Live Out A Deeper Christian Experience
This book highlights the importance of dying to self and living for Christ. Tozer insists that genuine discipleship is costly but rich with joy. He points to the cross as the place where pride, selfishness, and sin are put to death.
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” — Galatians 2:20
Man: The Dwelling Place of God
Tozer writes about how God longs to dwell in His people. This book stresses the need for personal holiness and obedience so that God’s Spirit can work through us. It is a call to be a true temple of the living God.
“Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?” — 1 Corinthians 3:16
Born After Midnight
In this powerful collection, Tozer speaks about revival and the cost of truly knowing God. He argues that deep spiritual awakenings often come through prayer, brokenness, and humility before God. It’s a book that stirs the church toward repentance.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face… then I will hear from heaven.” — 2 Chronicles 7:14
The Size of the Soul: Principles of Revival and Spiritual Growth
This is a collection of essays and sermons that point to the greatness of God’s work in the human heart. Tozer addresses spiritual struggles, pride, and the need for humility. He challenges readers to measure life by eternal values rather than earthly success.
“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” — Matthew 16:26
Table: Overview of Key Tozer Books
Book Title | Focus Area | Key Theme |
---|---|---|
The Pursuit of God | Desire for God’s presence | Wholehearted seeking of God |
The Knowledge of the Holy | God’s attributes | Seeing God as He truly is |
The Attributes of God | Theology & devotion | Trusting God’s eternal character |
The Root of the Righteous | True Christian living | Living a Spirit-filled, fruitful life |
The Crucified Life | Discipleship & surrender | Dying to self and living for Christ |
Man: The Dwelling Place | Holiness & God’s indwelling Spirit | Becoming a temple for the Spirit |
Born After Midnight | Revival & prayer | Humility, prayer, and brokenness before God |
The Size of the Soul | Spiritual depth | Humility and eternal perspective |