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From the Library of A. W. Tozer: Selections From Writers Who Influenced His Spiritual Journey
Here in one volume are many of the writings that influenced one of the most influential pastors and evangelical thinkers of the 20th century. Today's readers know Tozer's name and have read his classic Pursuit of God, but now they can read the same authors he read and learned from. This unique collection of readings has been thoroughly researched and culled from the people Tozer read and quoted. The selections are arranged thematically--including worship, the attributes of God, oneness with God, and more--to make the book easy to browse or use as devotional reading. This book belongs in every pastor's and thinking Christian's library.
- GenresChristian
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 11, 2010
23 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
James Stuart Bell
125 books22 followersJames Stuart Bell is the owner of Whitestone Communications, a literary development agency. He consults with numerous publishers, represents various authors, and provides writing and editing services. He has previously served as executive editor at Moody Press, director of religious publishing at Doubleday, and publisher at Bridge Publishing. He also has more than one hundred books with cover credit. He coauthored the best-selling Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible (more than 300,000 sold) and numerous other Christian guides in that series for the Penguin Group. He has also contributed numerous Christian volumes to the best-selling Cup of Comfort series by Adams Media.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
April 14, 2011
There are so many classic Christian works from throughout history that I'd love to read. I've read parts of many of them, all of some of them, but it's difficult to get to them all. I've really been enjoying the copy of From the Library of A. W. Tozer that Bethany House recently sent to me. A.W. Tozer is the author of the classics The Pursuit of God and The Knowledge of the Holy among others.
From the Library of A. W. Tozer takes excerpts from a wide variety of works throughout church history...from the earliest church fathers to modern time...and arranges them by theme. Each work included is one that had a profound influence on A.W. Tozer's life and thought and is fairly short, about 1 to 3 pages in length
The eight chapters cover these themes:
* Worship: The Chief End of Man
* Prayer and Contemplation
* Exhortations and Prophetic Words
* Our Counselor: The Holy Spirit
* Jesus Christ: Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King
* Practicing the Presence of God
* On Christian Doctrine
* On Living the Christian Life
In these pages you'll find the writings of Augustine, Thomas a Kempis, Martin Luther, D. L. Moody, and many others. From early church fathers, to monks, mystics, and reformers, there's a wide variety of thought represented here. There's also a biographical sketch of Tozer himself and, in a section in the back, a brief (about a paragraph) biography of each writer and a list of the works excerpted.
This is not a book to sit down and read straight through, but I've really been enjoying working slowly through it as part of my daily devotional time. This is definitely not a substitute for Scripture reading or Bible study, but it makes a nice addition. I like the way the book is organized...it's very interesting to read about the same subject from such a variety of viewpoints. By reading one excerpt a day I get a broad sweep or overview of the thoughts of a very diverse group of people from throughout church history on a given topic. Some of the writers and works I'm very familiar with, others I've heard of, still others are totally unfamiliar. It's been thought-provoking and has exposed me to some writings that I may have never sought out on my own. While it would be difficult to read complete works of so many writers on each subject, this compilation offers the opportunity to become familiar with a wide variety of perspectives. Each excerpt brings out a different unique facet of the topic at hand.
If you'd like to delve in to some of the great works of Christianity from throughout the ages but don't know quite where to begin, From the Library of A. W. Tozer may make an excellent starting point. The excerpts here are sure to whet your appetite to seek out at least a few of the originals to read further, and it provides well-rounded views on a variety of topics. It offers exposure to a number of great thinkers throughout church history, making it excellent for personal study or even as an addition to a high schooler's study of church history and/or literature. I think it'll be an excellent fit when my oldest daughter and I study church history together in a couple of years.
It's a unique book that offers a valuable glimpse of Christian thought through the ages!
Thanks so much to Bethany House for providing a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
From the Library of A. W. Tozer takes excerpts from a wide variety of works throughout church history...from the earliest church fathers to modern time...and arranges them by theme. Each work included is one that had a profound influence on A.W. Tozer's life and thought and is fairly short, about 1 to 3 pages in length
The eight chapters cover these themes:
* Worship: The Chief End of Man
* Prayer and Contemplation
* Exhortations and Prophetic Words
* Our Counselor: The Holy Spirit
* Jesus Christ: Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King
* Practicing the Presence of God
* On Christian Doctrine
* On Living the Christian Life
In these pages you'll find the writings of Augustine, Thomas a Kempis, Martin Luther, D. L. Moody, and many others. From early church fathers, to monks, mystics, and reformers, there's a wide variety of thought represented here. There's also a biographical sketch of Tozer himself and, in a section in the back, a brief (about a paragraph) biography of each writer and a list of the works excerpted.
This is not a book to sit down and read straight through, but I've really been enjoying working slowly through it as part of my daily devotional time. This is definitely not a substitute for Scripture reading or Bible study, but it makes a nice addition. I like the way the book is organized...it's very interesting to read about the same subject from such a variety of viewpoints. By reading one excerpt a day I get a broad sweep or overview of the thoughts of a very diverse group of people from throughout church history on a given topic. Some of the writers and works I'm very familiar with, others I've heard of, still others are totally unfamiliar. It's been thought-provoking and has exposed me to some writings that I may have never sought out on my own. While it would be difficult to read complete works of so many writers on each subject, this compilation offers the opportunity to become familiar with a wide variety of perspectives. Each excerpt brings out a different unique facet of the topic at hand.
If you'd like to delve in to some of the great works of Christianity from throughout the ages but don't know quite where to begin, From the Library of A. W. Tozer may make an excellent starting point. The excerpts here are sure to whet your appetite to seek out at least a few of the originals to read further, and it provides well-rounded views on a variety of topics. It offers exposure to a number of great thinkers throughout church history, making it excellent for personal study or even as an addition to a high schooler's study of church history and/or literature. I think it'll be an excellent fit when my oldest daughter and I study church history together in a couple of years.
It's a unique book that offers a valuable glimpse of Christian thought through the ages!
Thanks so much to Bethany House for providing a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 19, 2011
Confession: If the name “A.W. Tozer” appears on the cover of a book, it’s going to end up on my bookshelf. Does that mean this review is biased? You decide…
Aidan Wilson Tozer was one of the most influential preachers and writers of the 20th century, and has certainly had an influence on my life. The man was an intellectual giant. He is frequently quoted and paraphrased by contemporary authors (David Platt and Francis Chan come to mind), as his words live on in newer books.
Which begs the question: What writers influenced Tozer? After all, this is the man who said all he needed by way of education (he never completed high school or attended college or seminary) was God’s Word, the Holy Spirit, and good books. His voracious appetite for books was well known, and the fruits of his self-teaching are evident in his writing. So which books had the greatest impact on his life? How did they affect his writing?
It was with these questions in mind that James Stuart Bell began this compilation of nearly 200 excerpts from books found in Tozer’s library. This is no mere random assortment, however. Bell has identified eight major themes in Tozer’s writing. The excerpts in this book are organized around those themes, which are:
1. Worship: The Chief End of Man
2. Prayer and Contemplation
3. Exhortations and Prophetic Words
4. Our Counselor: The Holy Spirit
5. Jesus Christ: Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King
6. Practicing the Presence of God
7. On Christian Doctrine
8. On Living the Christian Life
Those familiar with Tozer’s work will recognize these themes, and will begin to see where many of his ideas originated. Bell suggests reading one of Tozer’s classics, such as The Pursuit of God, along with this collection, to see these connections in real-time. I haven’t done that yet, but I think it would be a great approach, particularly for those who haven’t read Tozer.
This collection mirrors the wide range of Tozer’s reading, covering writers from the 4th through 20th centuries, representing many different theological persuasions. Tozer seems to have been particularly interested in many of the mystics from the Dark Ages. There are also many authors cited from the Reformation and Puritan eras, including perspective from those with Calvinist and Wesleyan leanings, as well as some Catholics.
This may not be a read-it-straight-through type of book, but it will be an invaluable resource for your personal library. I can see it functioning very well as a daily reader as well. I recommend it!
Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book for free from the publisher. I was under no obligation to give it a positive review, and will not be compensated for my review.
Aidan Wilson Tozer was one of the most influential preachers and writers of the 20th century, and has certainly had an influence on my life. The man was an intellectual giant. He is frequently quoted and paraphrased by contemporary authors (David Platt and Francis Chan come to mind), as his words live on in newer books.
Which begs the question: What writers influenced Tozer? After all, this is the man who said all he needed by way of education (he never completed high school or attended college or seminary) was God’s Word, the Holy Spirit, and good books. His voracious appetite for books was well known, and the fruits of his self-teaching are evident in his writing. So which books had the greatest impact on his life? How did they affect his writing?
It was with these questions in mind that James Stuart Bell began this compilation of nearly 200 excerpts from books found in Tozer’s library. This is no mere random assortment, however. Bell has identified eight major themes in Tozer’s writing. The excerpts in this book are organized around those themes, which are:
1. Worship: The Chief End of Man
2. Prayer and Contemplation
3. Exhortations and Prophetic Words
4. Our Counselor: The Holy Spirit
5. Jesus Christ: Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King
6. Practicing the Presence of God
7. On Christian Doctrine
8. On Living the Christian Life
Those familiar with Tozer’s work will recognize these themes, and will begin to see where many of his ideas originated. Bell suggests reading one of Tozer’s classics, such as The Pursuit of God, along with this collection, to see these connections in real-time. I haven’t done that yet, but I think it would be a great approach, particularly for those who haven’t read Tozer.
This collection mirrors the wide range of Tozer’s reading, covering writers from the 4th through 20th centuries, representing many different theological persuasions. Tozer seems to have been particularly interested in many of the mystics from the Dark Ages. There are also many authors cited from the Reformation and Puritan eras, including perspective from those with Calvinist and Wesleyan leanings, as well as some Catholics.
This may not be a read-it-straight-through type of book, but it will be an invaluable resource for your personal library. I can see it functioning very well as a daily reader as well. I recommend it!
Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book for free from the publisher. I was under no obligation to give it a positive review, and will not be compensated for my review.
December 22, 2011
Have you ever wanted to peruse the bookshelves of people you esteem and are influenced by?
Could you imagine peeking into the library of Billy Graham, George Washington, Martin Luther King, Jr. or whomever else you may hold in high regard?
Well, Bethany House Publishers and James Stuart Bell have made that possible for us with the likes of noted American pastor, A. W. Tozer (1897-1963).
In From the Library of A. W. Tozer, Bell has complied short but powerful excerpts from various writers who influenced Tozer's life as well as his thinking, writing, and preaching.
In this treasure of a book, such writers featured include though are not limited to: Charles Spurgeon, D.L. Moody, Francis of Assisi, George Mueller, John Bunyan, John Calvin, John Knox, John Milton, Jonathan Edwards, Martin Luther, and Teresa of Avila.
These one or two-page excerpts are inspiring, piercing, challenging, thought provoking, encouraging, and on, and on, and on...
As a matter of fact, as Francois Fenelon is quoted in the book, "Without the actual inspiration of the Spirit of grace, we could neither do, nor will, nor believe any good thing. We are, then, always inspired, but we incessantly stifle the inspiration. God does not cease to speak, but the noise of the creatures without, and of our passions within, confines us and prevents our hearing."
And then there is the challenge of George Mueller to us, " Do not men believe that God means what he appears plainly to have asserted? Or, if we believe that he means it, do we fear the charge of fanaticism if we openly avow to take him at his word?"
Upon reading through this priceless treasure of a book, I found myself constantly realizing how such great people of the faith like A. W. Tozer were inspired, strengthened, challenged, and encouraged by what they immersed themselves in by way of their Bible reading and related study.
Do yourself a favor and get your hands on this one book that combines writing from countless invaluable resources. Definitely a blessing to own and dig into as a daily devotional guide, as an occasional necessary resource, or as frequent reading material. Great resource packed with wisdom and inspiration!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Could you imagine peeking into the library of Billy Graham, George Washington, Martin Luther King, Jr. or whomever else you may hold in high regard?
Well, Bethany House Publishers and James Stuart Bell have made that possible for us with the likes of noted American pastor, A. W. Tozer (1897-1963).
In From the Library of A. W. Tozer, Bell has complied short but powerful excerpts from various writers who influenced Tozer's life as well as his thinking, writing, and preaching.
In this treasure of a book, such writers featured include though are not limited to: Charles Spurgeon, D.L. Moody, Francis of Assisi, George Mueller, John Bunyan, John Calvin, John Knox, John Milton, Jonathan Edwards, Martin Luther, and Teresa of Avila.
These one or two-page excerpts are inspiring, piercing, challenging, thought provoking, encouraging, and on, and on, and on...
As a matter of fact, as Francois Fenelon is quoted in the book, "Without the actual inspiration of the Spirit of grace, we could neither do, nor will, nor believe any good thing. We are, then, always inspired, but we incessantly stifle the inspiration. God does not cease to speak, but the noise of the creatures without, and of our passions within, confines us and prevents our hearing."
And then there is the challenge of George Mueller to us, " Do not men believe that God means what he appears plainly to have asserted? Or, if we believe that he means it, do we fear the charge of fanaticism if we openly avow to take him at his word?"
Upon reading through this priceless treasure of a book, I found myself constantly realizing how such great people of the faith like A. W. Tozer were inspired, strengthened, challenged, and encouraged by what they immersed themselves in by way of their Bible reading and related study.
Do yourself a favor and get your hands on this one book that combines writing from countless invaluable resources. Definitely a blessing to own and dig into as a daily devotional guide, as an occasional necessary resource, or as frequent reading material. Great resource packed with wisdom and inspiration!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
March 11, 2011
MY REVIEW:
Over the past two years I have developed an appreciation for the writings of "the dead guys" as a well known speaker affectionately refers to them. The writings of men like D.L. Moody, C.S. Lewis, Martin Luther and others are such an amazing encouragement to me. However, in all honesty, I find myself struggling to read an entire volume by them in my demanding, fast pace life when I have other books waiting to be read that are a easier reads. So imagine my excitement at a book that contains shorter excerpts of their works!
This beautiful book - From the Library of A.W. Tozer - is a compilation of one to three page selections of the writers who influenced the spiritual life of A.W. Tozer. The book is broken into topical chapters with many small portions within each chapter. It's the perfect book to leave on the coffee table and read a page or two a day. It is also a fabulous way for those of us who don't have the self discipline to read an entire work from one of these men of faith to enjoy small bits at a time. Rather than own multiple books you may never finish or use, this is a book you most likely will pick up again and again.
I enjoyed this book for the highly impacting messages in such small portions making it something that was easy to understand and stay with you through out the day. This book is not overwhelming or daunting, but uplifting and addicting!
BOOK OVERVIEW:
A Collection of Writings That Shaped One of the Most Influential Pastors of the Twentieth Century
Pull back the curtain on the life and mind of A. W. Tozer as you read selections from the authors and thinkers who influenced his spiritual journey. Without their words to serve as guides, Tozer never would have become the man of God that he was. Drink deeply from these selections, chosen to emphasize major themes from Tozer's life and ministry--worship, practicing the presence of God, living the Christian life. As you do, you too will grow in your devotion to and understanding of God.
* * * * *
This review copy was provided courtesy of Bethany House but the opinion expressed is my own and was in no way compensated.
Over the past two years I have developed an appreciation for the writings of "the dead guys" as a well known speaker affectionately refers to them. The writings of men like D.L. Moody, C.S. Lewis, Martin Luther and others are such an amazing encouragement to me. However, in all honesty, I find myself struggling to read an entire volume by them in my demanding, fast pace life when I have other books waiting to be read that are a easier reads. So imagine my excitement at a book that contains shorter excerpts of their works!
This beautiful book - From the Library of A.W. Tozer - is a compilation of one to three page selections of the writers who influenced the spiritual life of A.W. Tozer. The book is broken into topical chapters with many small portions within each chapter. It's the perfect book to leave on the coffee table and read a page or two a day. It is also a fabulous way for those of us who don't have the self discipline to read an entire work from one of these men of faith to enjoy small bits at a time. Rather than own multiple books you may never finish or use, this is a book you most likely will pick up again and again.
I enjoyed this book for the highly impacting messages in such small portions making it something that was easy to understand and stay with you through out the day. This book is not overwhelming or daunting, but uplifting and addicting!
BOOK OVERVIEW:
A Collection of Writings That Shaped One of the Most Influential Pastors of the Twentieth Century
Pull back the curtain on the life and mind of A. W. Tozer as you read selections from the authors and thinkers who influenced his spiritual journey. Without their words to serve as guides, Tozer never would have become the man of God that he was. Drink deeply from these selections, chosen to emphasize major themes from Tozer's life and ministry--worship, practicing the presence of God, living the Christian life. As you do, you too will grow in your devotion to and understanding of God.
* * * * *
This review copy was provided courtesy of Bethany House but the opinion expressed is my own and was in no way compensated.
March 7, 2011
Ever wondered how great men compiled their thoughts? Who inspired them? What encouraged them along side of their Bible? Browse through a collection of writings that enhanced the teachings of A. W. Tozer. I mean, we know the Bible is the main source of his life purpose, but how interesting to see who and what added to that!
From the library of A.W. Tozer includes a very brief biography at the front and over 200 writings, and over 35 different thinkers and authors in this book were influential on A.W. Tozer. I found it fascinating to look over these people, some whom I was familiar with, such as Charles Spurgeon, D.L. Moody and John Bunyan, and others I was not so familiar with such as William Law, Samuel Rutherford, or John Milton.
The book was broken up into 8 different sectional topics. It is suggested to read a chapter a day (which is basically a page or two) and a Bible reading to enhance this book. I liked that combination because it puts it into perspective, and still points us to God’s Word.
My initial reaction when I first ordered the book was different from the actual book. I was expecting writings of Tozer. I was thinking more like a documentary on him, than what was in his actual library. But I was just as happy seeing what his library was full of. It is such a rare thing to see what sits on others bookshelves! There is a biography list at the back of the book so I could learn more about the writers I wasn’t familiar with. I really appreciated that.
I think this is a great book for people to be introduced to some of the great Christian writers of the past centuries and who shaped our churches. This is a great resource for people who are wanting inspiration!
*review copy provided by Bethany House
From the library of A.W. Tozer includes a very brief biography at the front and over 200 writings, and over 35 different thinkers and authors in this book were influential on A.W. Tozer. I found it fascinating to look over these people, some whom I was familiar with, such as Charles Spurgeon, D.L. Moody and John Bunyan, and others I was not so familiar with such as William Law, Samuel Rutherford, or John Milton.
The book was broken up into 8 different sectional topics. It is suggested to read a chapter a day (which is basically a page or two) and a Bible reading to enhance this book. I liked that combination because it puts it into perspective, and still points us to God’s Word.
My initial reaction when I first ordered the book was different from the actual book. I was expecting writings of Tozer. I was thinking more like a documentary on him, than what was in his actual library. But I was just as happy seeing what his library was full of. It is such a rare thing to see what sits on others bookshelves! There is a biography list at the back of the book so I could learn more about the writers I wasn’t familiar with. I really appreciated that.
I think this is a great book for people to be introduced to some of the great Christian writers of the past centuries and who shaped our churches. This is a great resource for people who are wanting inspiration!
*review copy provided by Bethany House
November 26, 2019
I really had to force myself to finish this one. It's been off and on the back burner of books for a while. Maybe about 10 % was worth the read. It's an interesting idea to have chunks of someones library all on one book. I think they were kinda randomly chosen. I know at least a couple of the authors have better segments of writings.
July 31, 2011
The name A.W. Tozer is widely known in the world of Christian Bible teaching. Though Tozer passed away in 1963, his books, messages, and teachings continue to influence Christians today. From the Library of A.W. Tozer, compiled by James Stuart Bell, offer readers a unique look into the writings that influenced Tozer and his ministry. These selections range from prayers and poetry to letters and sermons. Well-known authors such as John Bunyan, John Milton, and Dwight L. Moody are included alongside anonymous and obscure authors.
I found reading From the Library of A.W. Tozer: Selections from Writers Who Influenced His Spiritual Journey as a supplement to my daily devotions was a helpful tool. Many of the selections are based on solid Biblical teachings, some are prayers of worship, and some are letters with practical teachings. While I did not agree with every selection in the book, I think that the majority of the selections are useful and applicable to Christian life. My advice in reading this book is to keep your Bible right beside it. The teachings in the book are good, but what the Bible says trumps anything that man says.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
I found reading From the Library of A.W. Tozer: Selections from Writers Who Influenced His Spiritual Journey as a supplement to my daily devotions was a helpful tool. Many of the selections are based on solid Biblical teachings, some are prayers of worship, and some are letters with practical teachings. While I did not agree with every selection in the book, I think that the majority of the selections are useful and applicable to Christian life. My advice in reading this book is to keep your Bible right beside it. The teachings in the book are good, but what the Bible says trumps anything that man says.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
April 30, 2011
The book is a collection of writings from the people who influenced A.W. Tozer compiled by James Stuart Bell. It’s slow reading, and it should be to have maximum absorption. In his introduction, Bell writes very enthusiastically about Tozer. He’s a big fan. I haven’t read a single thing by Tozer and I’m intrigued. But I’m not done with the book yet.
Instead of rushing through the review I am choosing to slowly go through every page with a pen and a highlighter to capture its words, to use later when I need inspiration, and to keep this book in my permanent library. It’s going to take me the rest of this year to finish the book. That is why I am writing the review now. I love this book!
I would heartily recommend the book for those wishing to learn of A.W. Tozer’s influences. Be warned that in reading this book you will not go through it quickly. It’s a little dry in places and some pages have a slight catholic influence. I garnered wisdom from writers such as St. Augustine, D.L. Moody, and Thomas Kempis. Some of the essays consoled me during moments of self-doubt and wondering. I am enjoying the journey of learning about the theologians that a friend had once tried to convince me to read.
Book provided by Bethany House Publishers for review.
Instead of rushing through the review I am choosing to slowly go through every page with a pen and a highlighter to capture its words, to use later when I need inspiration, and to keep this book in my permanent library. It’s going to take me the rest of this year to finish the book. That is why I am writing the review now. I love this book!
I would heartily recommend the book for those wishing to learn of A.W. Tozer’s influences. Be warned that in reading this book you will not go through it quickly. It’s a little dry in places and some pages have a slight catholic influence. I garnered wisdom from writers such as St. Augustine, D.L. Moody, and Thomas Kempis. Some of the essays consoled me during moments of self-doubt and wondering. I am enjoying the journey of learning about the theologians that a friend had once tried to convince me to read.
Book provided by Bethany House Publishers for review.
December 14, 2012
Good for use as a reference book or maybe an addition to a devotional time. Can't imagine what good would come from reading it straight through. Actually, there are many online resources and software products that make this kind of book nearly useless. The content is wonderful and made better through a digit format.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews