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Church: Living Faithfully as the People of God-Collected Insights from A. W. Tozer
Catch A. W. Tozer’s contagious passion for the Church of Christ Church attendance is declining in the West today as more and more people declare that they can have God without His church. How did we get here, and above all, how do we move forward? In Church , the timeless spiritual leader A. W. Tozer discusses the nature and mission of the church and how ordinary Christians can and should participate in the life of the church. Tozer offers you far more than theological platitudes or “should’s” and “should not’s.” With matchless eloquence, Tozer proclaims the simple truths of the faith in a way that moves you to astonishment and compels you to worship. Come and be reminded of what it means for the church to be faithful, and why it is so wonderful that we get to be a part of the glorious bride of Christ.
176 pages, Paperback
Published February 6, 2019
About the author
A.W. Tozer
676 books2,204 followersAiden Wilson Tozer was an American evangelical pastor, speaker, writer, and editor. After coming to Christ at the age of seventeen, Tozer found his way into the Christian & Missionary Alliance denomination where he served for over forty years. In 1950, he was appointed by the denomination's General Council to be the editor of "The Alliance Witness" (now "Alliance Life").
Born into poverty in western Pennsylvania in 1897, Tozer died in May 1963 a self-educated man who had taught himself what he missed in high school and college due to his home situation. Though he wrote many books, two of them, "The Pursuit of God" and "The Knowledge of the Holy" are widely considered to be classics.
A.W. Tozer and his wife, Ada Cecelia Pfautz, had seven children, six boys and one girl.
Born into poverty in western Pennsylvania in 1897, Tozer died in May 1963 a self-educated man who had taught himself what he missed in high school and college due to his home situation. Though he wrote many books, two of them, "The Pursuit of God" and "The Knowledge of the Holy" are widely considered to be classics.
A.W. Tozer and his wife, Ada Cecelia Pfautz, had seven children, six boys and one girl.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 31, 2019
Tozer calls the Church to return, return to its Lord, return to its power, and return to its purpose. He points out the lack of true authority in the Church and begs us to recognize and obey Christ’s full authority. Then he shows us why we are so weak and powerless, and reminds us that only through the Holy Spirit’s power can we accomplish anything for God. That is followed by sections teaching us about the organization and officers of a Biblical Church, and correcting false beliefs about the Church. Then it ends with the ultimate hope. God’s purposes will be accomplished.
While the main focus of this book is the Evangelical church, Tozer also makes it applicable to each and every Christian. After all, without each individual, there is no church, so those broad lessons became personally convicting.
As we must with any book, and as Tozer would have wanted us to, we must test this book with the Bible. There are a couple of little things that I disagree with, and some of the authors he quotes, I would be extremely cautious in reading or quoting. But overall, it is a worthwhile book to read.
I received this book as a free ARC through NetGalley and Moody Publishers. No favorable review was required. I was my pleasure to provide my honest opinions.
While the main focus of this book is the Evangelical church, Tozer also makes it applicable to each and every Christian. After all, without each individual, there is no church, so those broad lessons became personally convicting.
As we must with any book, and as Tozer would have wanted us to, we must test this book with the Bible. There are a couple of little things that I disagree with, and some of the authors he quotes, I would be extremely cautious in reading or quoting. But overall, it is a worthwhile book to read.
I received this book as a free ARC through NetGalley and Moody Publishers. No favorable review was required. I was my pleasure to provide my honest opinions.
September 6, 2021
Originally penned decades ago, A. W. Tozer's insights on the church still ring startlingly true today. Speaking in his signature straightforward yet eloquent style that cuts to the heart of the matter, Mr. Tozer writes of what church should and should not be, as well as the importance of a community of believers, holding to biblical truth.
I didn't realize this was my second time reading this book until I picked it up and starting reading, but it is a book I would happily read again in the future as well! Mr. Tozer's writings never fail to encourage and challenge, his high esteem of Scripture is evident throughout his writings. I especially enjoyed the chapters on spiritual gifts in the church as well as the one on worship.
His passion for God is infectious, and I appreciate his sound, clear cut preaching that is concise and effective. Like everything else I have read by Tozer, I can't recommend it enough!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I didn't realize this was my second time reading this book until I picked it up and starting reading, but it is a book I would happily read again in the future as well! Mr. Tozer's writings never fail to encourage and challenge, his high esteem of Scripture is evident throughout his writings. I especially enjoyed the chapters on spiritual gifts in the church as well as the one on worship.
His passion for God is infectious, and I appreciate his sound, clear cut preaching that is concise and effective. Like everything else I have read by Tozer, I can't recommend it enough!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 28, 2019
The mission of the church is declare, to proclaim, to witness. She has been left on earth to be a witness to certain great eternal truths which she received from God and which the world could not possibly know unless she told it. "Go ye therefore, and teach all nation. Matt 28:19
A.W. Tozer is always direct and to the point in his teaching. His delivery can be harsh but I take it has it is his passion and zeal for the things of God. With 14 chapters on what the characterization of the church should be. With to much of the world in churches and not enough of the spirit, Tozer's passion is founded on these 14 principles.
The Necessity of the Church
The Lord of the Church
The Spirit of the Church
The Organization of the Church
The Leadership of the Church
The Character of the Church
The Unity of the Church
The Communion of the Church
The Freedom of the Church
The Ability of the Church
The Purpose of the Church
The Service of the Church
The Witness of the Church
The Journey of the Church
The text is centered around worship and the holy spirit. There is no program agenda to be had here but a reminder of what worship entails. Without worship, our work begins to be about ourselves. With the spirit, we become more humble minded. This is not only for church leaders but also for church members. Unity within leadership and the body is essential to work out our salvation. Highly recommend.
A Special Thank you to Moody Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
A.W. Tozer is always direct and to the point in his teaching. His delivery can be harsh but I take it has it is his passion and zeal for the things of God. With 14 chapters on what the characterization of the church should be. With to much of the world in churches and not enough of the spirit, Tozer's passion is founded on these 14 principles.
The Necessity of the Church
The Lord of the Church
The Spirit of the Church
The Organization of the Church
The Leadership of the Church
The Character of the Church
The Unity of the Church
The Communion of the Church
The Freedom of the Church
The Ability of the Church
The Purpose of the Church
The Service of the Church
The Witness of the Church
The Journey of the Church
The text is centered around worship and the holy spirit. There is no program agenda to be had here but a reminder of what worship entails. Without worship, our work begins to be about ourselves. With the spirit, we become more humble minded. This is not only for church leaders but also for church members. Unity within leadership and the body is essential to work out our salvation. Highly recommend.
A Special Thank you to Moody Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
August 14, 2025
Such great insights through Tozer’s works on who the church is and the purpose of the church. May Christ be magnified in all of us!
“Look away from yourself. God is not going to bless you for your sake. He is going to bless you for Jesus’ sake and for the sake of His own name, for His own glorious namesake. If you think that there is anybody in this world good enough that God could do anything for their sake, you don’t know sin. And if you think there isn’t anything that God won’t do for you for His sake, you don’t know God.” (p.96)
“Look away from yourself. God is not going to bless you for your sake. He is going to bless you for Jesus’ sake and for the sake of His own name, for His own glorious namesake. If you think that there is anybody in this world good enough that God could do anything for their sake, you don’t know sin. And if you think there isn’t anything that God won’t do for you for His sake, you don’t know God.” (p.96)
December 16, 2018
I had to take a break on reading this to read a few other books with deadlines. But this is also a thinking book, so it's a slower read to begin with. It's a nice little collection of thoughts and reflections on what the church looks like and what she is supposed to be.
Tozer is a little like Lewis in his writing, but every now and again, he throws something so modern and sarcastic in and I just have to laugh! It's totally different than the rest of his style.
I liked the emphasis on the Holy Spirit. That's something I'm learning to appreciate more, is His working in the life of Christians and the church. There was a lot of good wisdom in this little book.
I'm a chapter girl, so I didn't like that the book is just a bunch of sections, because then I never feel like I'm at a good stopping point.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Tozer is a little like Lewis in his writing, but every now and again, he throws something so modern and sarcastic in and I just have to laugh! It's totally different than the rest of his style.
I liked the emphasis on the Holy Spirit. That's something I'm learning to appreciate more, is His working in the life of Christians and the church. There was a lot of good wisdom in this little book.
I'm a chapter girl, so I didn't like that the book is just a bunch of sections, because then I never feel like I'm at a good stopping point.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 30, 2019
***DISCLAIMER*** I received this book for free from Moody Publishers to review.
A.W. Tozer’s book Church: Living Faithfully as the People of God-Collected Insights from A. W. Tozer represents the ninth book I have reviewed for Moody Publishers. A posthumous work (henceforth referred to simply as Church), this book is self-explanatory as far as what it is about; it is about the church, especially since each chapter (fourteen of them) contains the word “church.” This book discusses the church’s necessity, LORD, Spirit, organization, leadership, character, unity, communion, freedom, ability, purpose, service, witness and journey (pp. 7-162). Kevin P. Emmert serves as the book’s editor.
This book has no less than a couple pros. First, its chapters are rather short and straightforward, thus making this book easy to read. Second, Tozer raises some interesting and insightful concepts throughout the book. These include but are not limited to the concepts of “the unconsulted LORD” (chapter two), the idea that a pastor is not a hired man (chapter four), the four types of Christians that apparently do not want a Spirit-filled congregation (chapter six) and the idea that we “are not called to be the Dale Carnegie, Norman Vincent Peale, chairman-of-the-board Christianity, but a cross-carrying, Christ-loving, people-loving, serving church” (chapter twelve; p. 137). The “Dale Carnegie” quote really hit me because a former pastor once gave me Carnegie’s book How to Win Friends and Influence People, a book I have found to be absolutely worthless as it pertains to my Christian walk.
While the book has some pros, I am not sure it quite outweighs its cons. The book has no less than a few of them. Two of them primarily fight for the top spot. First, Tozer shows unwavering support for Charles Finney, a heretic who both promoted Pelagianism and denied the substitutionary atonement of Jesus Christ. The book’s editor (or was it Tozer?) also both misspelled Finney and the name of Jonathan Edwards (Finny and Johnathon, respectively; p. 43; it should be noted Finney’s name was spelled right throughout the rest of the book). Second, Tozer admits to talking back to the devil (p. 93). While he admits that that is not recommended, he fails to state that the practice isn’t even biblical. After all, even Michael the Archangel, “when he disputed with the devil and argued about the body of Moses, did not dare pronounce against him a railing judgment, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’” (Jude 9; NASB). Tozer also claims direct revelation from God. This, like his talking back to the devil, is also unbiblical since God speaks to people via His written Word (the Bible) in these last days we are living in (Hebrews 1:1-4). Finally, Tozer seems to insinuate a “name it and claim it” methodology when he speaks of how he removed a couple burdens in his life (p. 102).
CONCLUSION
Tozer says some good things in this book. I do believe he has a right understanding of the Gospel. However, his claims of direct revelation from God in addition to his unambiguous support for a heretic like Charles Finney certainly leaves me perplexed. This is one of those “eat the meat and spit out the bones” kind of books. The book has some meat in it. Unfortunately, it does have a couple bad bones in it as well. Given my pickiness for books, I cannot fully endorse any book lending unwavering support for a man who did as much damage to Christianity as Charles Finney did. This type of support can ruin the sanctification and discernment of some. Therefore, stay away from this book.
GRADE: 3.25 out of 5
A.W. Tozer’s book Church: Living Faithfully as the People of God-Collected Insights from A. W. Tozer represents the ninth book I have reviewed for Moody Publishers. A posthumous work (henceforth referred to simply as Church), this book is self-explanatory as far as what it is about; it is about the church, especially since each chapter (fourteen of them) contains the word “church.” This book discusses the church’s necessity, LORD, Spirit, organization, leadership, character, unity, communion, freedom, ability, purpose, service, witness and journey (pp. 7-162). Kevin P. Emmert serves as the book’s editor.
This book has no less than a couple pros. First, its chapters are rather short and straightforward, thus making this book easy to read. Second, Tozer raises some interesting and insightful concepts throughout the book. These include but are not limited to the concepts of “the unconsulted LORD” (chapter two), the idea that a pastor is not a hired man (chapter four), the four types of Christians that apparently do not want a Spirit-filled congregation (chapter six) and the idea that we “are not called to be the Dale Carnegie, Norman Vincent Peale, chairman-of-the-board Christianity, but a cross-carrying, Christ-loving, people-loving, serving church” (chapter twelve; p. 137). The “Dale Carnegie” quote really hit me because a former pastor once gave me Carnegie’s book How to Win Friends and Influence People, a book I have found to be absolutely worthless as it pertains to my Christian walk.
While the book has some pros, I am not sure it quite outweighs its cons. The book has no less than a few of them. Two of them primarily fight for the top spot. First, Tozer shows unwavering support for Charles Finney, a heretic who both promoted Pelagianism and denied the substitutionary atonement of Jesus Christ. The book’s editor (or was it Tozer?) also both misspelled Finney and the name of Jonathan Edwards (Finny and Johnathon, respectively; p. 43; it should be noted Finney’s name was spelled right throughout the rest of the book). Second, Tozer admits to talking back to the devil (p. 93). While he admits that that is not recommended, he fails to state that the practice isn’t even biblical. After all, even Michael the Archangel, “when he disputed with the devil and argued about the body of Moses, did not dare pronounce against him a railing judgment, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’” (Jude 9; NASB). Tozer also claims direct revelation from God. This, like his talking back to the devil, is also unbiblical since God speaks to people via His written Word (the Bible) in these last days we are living in (Hebrews 1:1-4). Finally, Tozer seems to insinuate a “name it and claim it” methodology when he speaks of how he removed a couple burdens in his life (p. 102).
CONCLUSION
Tozer says some good things in this book. I do believe he has a right understanding of the Gospel. However, his claims of direct revelation from God in addition to his unambiguous support for a heretic like Charles Finney certainly leaves me perplexed. This is one of those “eat the meat and spit out the bones” kind of books. The book has some meat in it. Unfortunately, it does have a couple bad bones in it as well. Given my pickiness for books, I cannot fully endorse any book lending unwavering support for a man who did as much damage to Christianity as Charles Finney did. This type of support can ruin the sanctification and discernment of some. Therefore, stay away from this book.
GRADE: 3.25 out of 5
January 19, 2021
Church by A.W. Tozer is a compilation of thoughts from the late American theologian about the concept and life of the church. Although I’ve certainly heard the name Tozer, this was my first encounter with him and it wasn’t quite what I was anticipating. To me, he’s most known for his book, The Attributes of God, which I hope to read someday. I expected that Church would be a book about the beauty of Christ and His bride and how much of a treasure the church ought to be. While the book did contain these sentiments at times, it seemed largely composed of Tozer’s commentary on issues with the American church. It was interesting to read his thoughts especially following a year like 2020 in which the American church did have to rethink many of its practices.
Although I enjoyed reading Tozer’s thoughts and certainly have benefitted from them, I was a bit disappointed that they often weren’t accompanied by Scripture references. While it isn’t wrong to have thoughts that aren’t rooted in the Bible, it seems that one who is a pastor would long for readers to see and experience the power of the living and active word of God (Hebrews 4:12) as often as possible. This aspect of the book was a helpful reminder that it’s okay to read other people’s thoughts on subjects but it’s really important to hold their thoughts loosely as they don’t have the same level of authority as the Bible. The book does contain a page at the back that lists titles the book derives its chapters from so perhaps it would be helpful for me to read those titles to gain the full context of what Tozer was attempting to convey. While I did find Church to be an interesting and eye-opening read, it didn’t inherently point me to the beauty of Christ or cause me to love Him or His bride more so on that note, I was a little disappointed. However, I do hope to read more from Tozer in the future.
I received Church compliments of Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
Although I enjoyed reading Tozer’s thoughts and certainly have benefitted from them, I was a bit disappointed that they often weren’t accompanied by Scripture references. While it isn’t wrong to have thoughts that aren’t rooted in the Bible, it seems that one who is a pastor would long for readers to see and experience the power of the living and active word of God (Hebrews 4:12) as often as possible. This aspect of the book was a helpful reminder that it’s okay to read other people’s thoughts on subjects but it’s really important to hold their thoughts loosely as they don’t have the same level of authority as the Bible. The book does contain a page at the back that lists titles the book derives its chapters from so perhaps it would be helpful for me to read those titles to gain the full context of what Tozer was attempting to convey. While I did find Church to be an interesting and eye-opening read, it didn’t inherently point me to the beauty of Christ or cause me to love Him or His bride more so on that note, I was a little disappointed. However, I do hope to read more from Tozer in the future.
I received Church compliments of Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
March 6, 2021
Church by A.W. Tozer is a collection of essays that the well-known pastor penned in the twentieth century. Tozer is a beloved writer and has blessed the church with books like The Knowledge of the Holy and The Pursuit of God. Tozer combines a blend of biblical wisdom and warm prose that encourages and admonishes followers of Christ. He has a unique way of drawing readers in, cornering them with the truth, and sending them out equipped and encouraged. The Church is no exception.
This book addresses a series of topics, all related to the church. Tozer focuses on matters that pertain to leadership, organization, unity, and the purposes of the church - to name a few. The book is packed with important challenges that Christians should carefully heed. One such challenge rightly summarizes the essence and tone of the book. Tozer writes, “The Christian must not allow himself to be entrapped by current vogues in religion, and above all, he must never go to the world for his message. He is a man of heaven sent to give witness on earth. As he shall give account to the Lord that bought him, let him see to his commission.”
While Church is a deeply encouraging and challenging book, it is not without its weaknesses. Sadly, Tozer commends the writing of Charles Finney several times. Finney, of course, denied the doctrine of original sin and penal substitutionary atonement and should therefore never be commended. Someone of Tozer’s capabilities should know better.
Apart from this critique, Church is certainly worth reading and will no doubt encourage many readers. May the people of God live faithfully in a generation that has turned away from his Word and his gospel.
This book addresses a series of topics, all related to the church. Tozer focuses on matters that pertain to leadership, organization, unity, and the purposes of the church - to name a few. The book is packed with important challenges that Christians should carefully heed. One such challenge rightly summarizes the essence and tone of the book. Tozer writes, “The Christian must not allow himself to be entrapped by current vogues in religion, and above all, he must never go to the world for his message. He is a man of heaven sent to give witness on earth. As he shall give account to the Lord that bought him, let him see to his commission.”
While Church is a deeply encouraging and challenging book, it is not without its weaknesses. Sadly, Tozer commends the writing of Charles Finney several times. Finney, of course, denied the doctrine of original sin and penal substitutionary atonement and should therefore never be commended. Someone of Tozer’s capabilities should know better.
Apart from this critique, Church is certainly worth reading and will no doubt encourage many readers. May the people of God live faithfully in a generation that has turned away from his Word and his gospel.
January 5, 2020
This book is a collection of sermons, articles, etc. that A. W. Tozer preached or taught concerning the position, role and value of the church in the sight of God. It is helpful as a corrective, but also as an encouragement. It is a quick read, but you will want to take your time and soak it in because it is Bibline in nature.
December 19, 2023
Tozer provides a great manual for pastors looking to better structure their churches. This is not necessarily a book I would recommend for lay people as there are only portions of the text specifically meant for congregants. Still, a classic pick for Christians.
September 17, 2024
These are collected insights so while each chapter is good on its own, it is a bit disjointed at times if you are reading straight through. Lots of relevant issues discussed, but not quite what I thought it would be.
October 4, 2020
A must read.
February 9, 2021
An amazing piece of literature on the church! This is the first book I have read from Tozer! It is evident that he lived God and was filled with the Holy Spirit! Best book on the church I have read!
August 24, 2023
Wonderful. Definitely recommend.
April 24, 2019
I found this recently published collection of Tozer's writings to be helpful, but less so than most of Tozer's work. I am always challenged by Tozer's passion for God and the work of the ministry. I do have a few differences with Tozer when it comes to the nature and mission of the church, so that affects my opinion on these writings.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"To be scripturally valid, any religious activity must be part of the church. Let it be clearly stated that there can be no service acceptable to God in this age that does not center in and spring out of the church."
"Why did Christ come? Why was He conceived? Why was He born? Why was He crucified? Why did He rise again? Why is He now at the right hand of the Father? The answer to all these questions is, 'In order that He might make worshipers out of rebels; in order that He might restore us again to the place of worship we knew when we were first created.'"
"Worship is the normal employment of moral beings."
Tozer's work is always encouraging and thought-provoking, so, by all means, read Tozer, this or one of his other books or compilations.
I received a digital copy of this book for free from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"To be scripturally valid, any religious activity must be part of the church. Let it be clearly stated that there can be no service acceptable to God in this age that does not center in and spring out of the church."
"Why did Christ come? Why was He conceived? Why was He born? Why was He crucified? Why did He rise again? Why is He now at the right hand of the Father? The answer to all these questions is, 'In order that He might make worshipers out of rebels; in order that He might restore us again to the place of worship we knew when we were first created.'"
"Worship is the normal employment of moral beings."
Tozer's work is always encouraging and thought-provoking, so, by all means, read Tozer, this or one of his other books or compilations.
I received a digital copy of this book for free from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review.
August 19, 2019
Originally penned decades ago, A. W. Tozer's insights on the church still ring startlingly true today. Speaking in his signature straightforward yet eloquent style that cuts to the heart of the matter, Mr. Tozer writes of what church should and should not be, as well as the importance of a community of believers, holding to biblical truth.
Mr. Tozer's writings never fail to encourage and challenge, his high esteem of Scripture is evident throughout his writings. I especially enjoyed the chapters on spiritual gifts in the church as well as the one on worship.
His passion for God is infectious, and I appreciate his sound, clear cut preaching that is concise and effective. Like everything else I have read by Tozer, I can't recommend it enough!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Mr. Tozer's writings never fail to encourage and challenge, his high esteem of Scripture is evident throughout his writings. I especially enjoyed the chapters on spiritual gifts in the church as well as the one on worship.
His passion for God is infectious, and I appreciate his sound, clear cut preaching that is concise and effective. Like everything else I have read by Tozer, I can't recommend it enough!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 3, 2020
A rare find
An exceptional book to read.
How amazing that A Tozer spoke about the things that are still happening even now in the church.
This is the one to have in your library if you are a minister of the word, and may it be a reminder of who the church is meant to be before Jesus and in the current society
An exceptional book to read.
How amazing that A Tozer spoke about the things that are still happening even now in the church.
This is the one to have in your library if you are a minister of the word, and may it be a reminder of who the church is meant to be before Jesus and in the current society
January 28, 2019
In a day in age where so many people are “viewing” church online and not actually participating in the body this tome by Tozer is inspiring! Our family is spending this year decluttering our life from excess running around so that we can better participate in our church family. This title was timely for me and quite encouraging. This is also a convicting read on the church and whether Christ is a church’s authority or man. I read Tozer and I cannot believe he died in 1963. These issues have not changed since then and have very likely spiraled downward (well, they have, but that’s conjecture for me as I don’t know much about the state of churches in the first half of the 20th century). I intend to read all of Tozer’s writings. They are timeless and rich!
March 1, 2019
I received an advanced digital copy of this book from Netgalley.com and Moody Publishers Wingspread.
A. W. Tozer's writings on faith are as relevant today as they were when he first wrote them. Similar to C. S. Lewis, he writes movingly about a return to God and our need for God in our lives.
Not for the light of faith, Tozer's writings are uplifting and challenging. An excellent addition to the publications of his works and sermons.
5 out of 5 stars. Highly recommended.
A. W. Tozer's writings on faith are as relevant today as they were when he first wrote them. Similar to C. S. Lewis, he writes movingly about a return to God and our need for God in our lives.
Not for the light of faith, Tozer's writings are uplifting and challenging. An excellent addition to the publications of his works and sermons.
5 out of 5 stars. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews