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Love Not the World
In this hard-hitting and controversial book, the great Chinese writer and preacher Watchman nee states that there is a Satanic power behind every worldly thing and that the natural tendency of every worldly system such as politics, education, literature, science, art and music is to move away from God and Towards Satan. How can the Christian live and work in these systems, but not be of the world?
118 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1951
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696 people want to read
About the author
Watchman Nee
594 books629 followersWatchman Nee (Chinese: 倪柝聲; pinyin: Ní Tuòshēng; Foochow Romanized: Ngà̤ Táuk-sĭng; 1903–1972) was a Chinese Christian author and church leader during the early 20th century. He spent the last 20 years of his life in prison and was severely persecuted by the Communists in China. Together with Wangzai, Zhou-An Lee, Shang-Jie Song, and others, Nee founded The Church Assembly Hall, later which would be also known as the "Local churches" (Chinese: 地方教會). or more commonly as (聚會所) meaning "assembly hall"
Born into a Methodist family, Watchman Nee experienced a religious revival, and joined the Church of Heavenly Peace, Fuzhou in 1920 at age 17 and began writing in the same year. In 1921, he met the British missionary M. E. Barber, who was a great influence on him. Through Miss Barber, Nee was introduced to many of the Christian writings which were to have a profound influence on him and his teachings. Nee attended no theological schools or Bible institutes. His knowledge was acquired through studying the Bible and reading various Christian spiritual books. During his 30 years of ministry, beginning in 1922, Nee traveled throughout China planting churches among the rural communities and holding Christian conferences and trainings in Shanghai. In 1952 he was imprisoned for his faith; he remained in prison until his death in 1972.
Born into a Methodist family, Watchman Nee experienced a religious revival, and joined the Church of Heavenly Peace, Fuzhou in 1920 at age 17 and began writing in the same year. In 1921, he met the British missionary M. E. Barber, who was a great influence on him. Through Miss Barber, Nee was introduced to many of the Christian writings which were to have a profound influence on him and his teachings. Nee attended no theological schools or Bible institutes. His knowledge was acquired through studying the Bible and reading various Christian spiritual books. During his 30 years of ministry, beginning in 1922, Nee traveled throughout China planting churches among the rural communities and holding Christian conferences and trainings in Shanghai. In 1952 he was imprisoned for his faith; he remained in prison until his death in 1972.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 19, 2012
This book is based on a series of lessons Watchman Nee gave on the subject of the Christian and the world system from 1938-1941.
Nee points out that it is easy for the Christian to look at such world entities as night clubs as things that are of the world, but he points out that such entities as education, commerce, and science are also part of this same world system. Since we must touch these three things as part of our daily living, unlike the night clubs, then what is a Christian to do? Nee points out that we must walk amongst these things without letting them capture our hearts. Ultimately, when we touch the things of the world, Nee states that the question we must ask ourselves always is: "How is this thing affecting my relationship with the Father?"
Nee states that our deliverance from the world begins, not with our giving up this or that but with our seeing, as with God's eyes, that this is a world under sentence of death. He points out that if you knew a certain bank or school was to soon be closed, you wouldn't go and deposit more money into that bank or, if you were in a teacher in the condemned school, you might go on working in the school but you wouldn't bother with building up a future for yourself there. Thus, we may likewise say of the world that it is under a decree of closure, and not put our hopes there.
"Children of God," Paul calls us, "in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye are seen as lights in the world" (Phil. 2:15). Nee points out that God has deliberately placed us in the world to show it up for what it is. We are to expose the world system to the divine light, for all men to see the world's God-defying rebelliousness on the one hand and its hollowness and emptiness on the other.
My favorite chapter is on "Mutual Refreshing". Here Nee quotes John 13:14-17: "Ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should also do as I have done to you.... If ye know these things, blessed are ye if ye do them". Nee points out that in the Christian life, to stumble and fall and then to flounder in the dust that is the world is sin which calls for repentance and needs God's forgiveness. However, walking through the world, no matter who we are or how careful we may be, it is inevitable that our feet will collect the dust of the world. Of course if we do not touch the earth at all, we certainly pick up nothing, but to achieve this we should have to be carried around by someone else who collects this same dust. It is at this point that we need to be refreshed by other Christians through fellowship and prayer - to have the dust wiped from our feet.
This book is very good, and will probably require repeated readings to really "get" everything Nee is saying. It is the best book I've found that is dedicated to clarifying what the Christian's attitude and relationship to the world system in which we live should be
Nee points out that it is easy for the Christian to look at such world entities as night clubs as things that are of the world, but he points out that such entities as education, commerce, and science are also part of this same world system. Since we must touch these three things as part of our daily living, unlike the night clubs, then what is a Christian to do? Nee points out that we must walk amongst these things without letting them capture our hearts. Ultimately, when we touch the things of the world, Nee states that the question we must ask ourselves always is: "How is this thing affecting my relationship with the Father?"
Nee states that our deliverance from the world begins, not with our giving up this or that but with our seeing, as with God's eyes, that this is a world under sentence of death. He points out that if you knew a certain bank or school was to soon be closed, you wouldn't go and deposit more money into that bank or, if you were in a teacher in the condemned school, you might go on working in the school but you wouldn't bother with building up a future for yourself there. Thus, we may likewise say of the world that it is under a decree of closure, and not put our hopes there.
"Children of God," Paul calls us, "in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye are seen as lights in the world" (Phil. 2:15). Nee points out that God has deliberately placed us in the world to show it up for what it is. We are to expose the world system to the divine light, for all men to see the world's God-defying rebelliousness on the one hand and its hollowness and emptiness on the other.
My favorite chapter is on "Mutual Refreshing". Here Nee quotes John 13:14-17: "Ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should also do as I have done to you.... If ye know these things, blessed are ye if ye do them". Nee points out that in the Christian life, to stumble and fall and then to flounder in the dust that is the world is sin which calls for repentance and needs God's forgiveness. However, walking through the world, no matter who we are or how careful we may be, it is inevitable that our feet will collect the dust of the world. Of course if we do not touch the earth at all, we certainly pick up nothing, but to achieve this we should have to be carried around by someone else who collects this same dust. It is at this point that we need to be refreshed by other Christians through fellowship and prayer - to have the dust wiped from our feet.
This book is very good, and will probably require repeated readings to really "get" everything Nee is saying. It is the best book I've found that is dedicated to clarifying what the Christian's attitude and relationship to the world system in which we live should be
August 21, 2008
Classic Watchman Nee. He had me spinning at the beginning, but it really packed a punch by the end. I've been mulling it over ever since.
May 22, 2020
"Love Not the World" was collected from a series of sermons given by Nee To-Sheng (Watchman Nee) between 1938-1941. Reading his comparatively more eastern perspective on Biblical truth and the nature of the world as Satan's kingdom was fresh and challenging.
My experience of this book was that both the introduction and conclusion of the text-long argument carried heavier personal interpretation from the author than the middle body of the book. I had a hard time weighing Nee's claims in the bookends about the purpose and function of believers in targeting principalities and powers above the pursuit of people. However, in the middle chapters I absolutely loved and gobbled up every page referring to the truth of the believer's identity in the midst of the world (kosmos).
Overall, this work challenged me to take a severe look at the different ways in which I touch the world every day and how natural human life on its own leads me away from God's heart. I rate this book with a 3/5 stars because I'm torn about several points the author makes. All the same, I cannot deny the benefit and blessing that this work has been to me as I have wrestled through topics that are often left untouched in the Western Evangelical conversation.
My experience of this book was that both the introduction and conclusion of the text-long argument carried heavier personal interpretation from the author than the middle body of the book. I had a hard time weighing Nee's claims in the bookends about the purpose and function of believers in targeting principalities and powers above the pursuit of people. However, in the middle chapters I absolutely loved and gobbled up every page referring to the truth of the believer's identity in the midst of the world (kosmos).
Overall, this work challenged me to take a severe look at the different ways in which I touch the world every day and how natural human life on its own leads me away from God's heart. I rate this book with a 3/5 stars because I'm torn about several points the author makes. All the same, I cannot deny the benefit and blessing that this work has been to me as I have wrestled through topics that are often left untouched in the Western Evangelical conversation.
May 24, 2015
Short but deep read about Spiritual dangers in our dealings with the World ( I.e. World system) in our daily walk as Christians. Thoroughly supported by many scripture references. Watchman Née is one of my favorite ministers of Gods Word -highly recommended. 10th book read of Frank Violas top 100.
December 14, 2023
An excellent introduction to developing a Christian worldview. Essentially, it's a warning for all believers to not become consumed with the world's affairs or delights, but to keep our eyes and hearts fixed on Christ alone.
Nee begins by explaining the meaning of the word "world" used in the bible. He analyses the original Greek word used, "kosmos", which translates as "world". It's meaning in the New Testament is threefold:
1: The material earth/universe
2: The people of earth
3: The things of the world
These contribute to an overarching picture of what the "world" is biblically; namely an ordered, arranged & functioning world-system. What the bible makes clear is that ever since Adam allowed Sin to enter God's creation, the world order is completely hostile to God.
The world "knew not God" (1Cor. 1:21), "hated" Christ (Jn. 15:18) & "cannot receive the Spirit of truth" (14:17). Its works "are evil" (Jn. 7:7) & "friendship of the world is enmity with God" (James 4:4). This is why Jesus said clearly "My kingdom is not of the world", that He has "overcome the world" (Jn.18:36,16:33) & that "the victory that has overcome the world" is "our faith in Him" (1Jn 5:4).
Additionally, there is a conscious mind behind the world system. The world's dark force is repeatedly called "the prince of this world" (Jn. 12:31,14:30,16:11), "he that is in the world" (1Jn. 4:4), & the bible states that "the whole world...lies in the evil one (5:19). This shadowy figure is Satan.
So what's the point of this book? To "bible thump" & call everything satanic? Not at all. Nee is careful to say that we must not literally separate ourselves from the world, but live knowing of the darkness that lies behind worldly temptation, lust, greeds and ambition. The world is not your friend when you are Christian, & it is a grave error to try & be friends with it, especially if that means compromising or twisting the faith.
It doesn't matter whether you work as a bus driver, a banker or a pastor. No form of profession makes you "more saved" or "more holy". What matters is whether God or the world is the centre of our lives. Go and live life fully! But do so for the glory of God.
Nee begins by explaining the meaning of the word "world" used in the bible. He analyses the original Greek word used, "kosmos", which translates as "world". It's meaning in the New Testament is threefold:
1: The material earth/universe
2: The people of earth
3: The things of the world
These contribute to an overarching picture of what the "world" is biblically; namely an ordered, arranged & functioning world-system. What the bible makes clear is that ever since Adam allowed Sin to enter God's creation, the world order is completely hostile to God.
The world "knew not God" (1Cor. 1:21), "hated" Christ (Jn. 15:18) & "cannot receive the Spirit of truth" (14:17). Its works "are evil" (Jn. 7:7) & "friendship of the world is enmity with God" (James 4:4). This is why Jesus said clearly "My kingdom is not of the world", that He has "overcome the world" (Jn.18:36,16:33) & that "the victory that has overcome the world" is "our faith in Him" (1Jn 5:4).
Additionally, there is a conscious mind behind the world system. The world's dark force is repeatedly called "the prince of this world" (Jn. 12:31,14:30,16:11), "he that is in the world" (1Jn. 4:4), & the bible states that "the whole world...lies in the evil one (5:19). This shadowy figure is Satan.
So what's the point of this book? To "bible thump" & call everything satanic? Not at all. Nee is careful to say that we must not literally separate ourselves from the world, but live knowing of the darkness that lies behind worldly temptation, lust, greeds and ambition. The world is not your friend when you are Christian, & it is a grave error to try & be friends with it, especially if that means compromising or twisting the faith.
It doesn't matter whether you work as a bus driver, a banker or a pastor. No form of profession makes you "more saved" or "more holy". What matters is whether God or the world is the centre of our lives. Go and live life fully! But do so for the glory of God.
July 24, 2018
AWESOME READ!!
Everyone or every Christian that truly desires to be Christ like should read this book! To break down what being "saved" really means helped me to understand more clearly what I have been saved from. I knew I was been saved from God's wraft but I knew it had to be something more and it is, the world! All I can say, is WoW! Great book!
Everyone or every Christian that truly desires to be Christ like should read this book! To break down what being "saved" really means helped me to understand more clearly what I have been saved from. I knew I was been saved from God's wraft but I knew it had to be something more and it is, the world! All I can say, is WoW! Great book!
May 1, 2021
This book was gifted to me by my partner as his christmas gift and I finished reading it today. It was truly an eye-opener as to what matters the most, not the earthly and wordly things but things from above.
We must be aware and discerning of what we are consuming and diving into because it can lead to idolatry and neglect of our main purpose.
Thank you, Lord. 🙏🥺
We must be aware and discerning of what we are consuming and diving into because it can lead to idolatry and neglect of our main purpose.
Thank you, Lord. 🙏🥺
August 14, 2021
Excellent book! As is the case with almost all of Nee’s books, I’m always challenged by them and grow more and more in my love for the Lord. This book was a great exploration of how a Christian is able to live in the world, but not become like the world. Always grateful for solid Keswick/Exchange Life authors like Watchman Nee!! Highly recommend this book!
August 24, 2021
Typical Nee, Very Challenging
You cannot possibly grasp all of the rich content of this book in one reading. I’ve just finished and I plan to go back and re-read again and again. This book reveals just how soulish and carnal we are as Christians. The words cut deep. It compels you to do some serious introspection and surely repentance will follow.
You cannot possibly grasp all of the rich content of this book in one reading. I’ve just finished and I plan to go back and re-read again and again. This book reveals just how soulish and carnal we are as Christians. The words cut deep. It compels you to do some serious introspection and surely repentance will follow.
October 30, 2024
A Masterpiece!
This book,written by Watchman Nee, is an absolute masterpiece that will help you to understand what is really going on today in the world and who is truly behind it. Your eyes will be opened as to why the world is the way is the way it is, who is the force behind the system and how you can be delivered from it.
This book,written by Watchman Nee, is an absolute masterpiece that will help you to understand what is really going on today in the world and who is truly behind it. Your eyes will be opened as to why the world is the way is the way it is, who is the force behind the system and how you can be delivered from it.
January 1, 2017
Watchman Nee was a black/white thinker - so he's very prone to taking ideas too far... at times dangerously close to heresy. Having said that, eat the fish and throw out the bones. I benefited from reading this book, despite disagreeing strongly with some of it.
July 13, 2020
This scholarly book is quite topical today. This biblical scholar and preacher tackles several profound spiritual issues in this shorter book which is a collection of several lectures and messages. Sin and man's human nature are the first topic which the author sees a spiritual battle. This issue sets up the rest of the book. In turn, the author focuses on the entanglements and temptations which the Christian must grapple with in his/her walk with Christ. It is clear that the believer lives in the world but must not compromise or be in agreement with the with the fallen and its worldly traps. Sin is the chasm which separates man from God. The author offers an explanation of building a 'bridge' between sinful man and the Lord. The Lord explains that has provided a way to battle sin. It is only through having a profound and true relationship with the Lord can one come out of this worldly existence with heaven guaranteed. The author also states that only by being in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit can one battle the evil attacks of Satan. The key is to be profoundly repentant and love not this world.
October 1, 2023
Uff, un libro leído después de mucho tiempo, sin duda imprescindible para que un Cristiano comprenda el significado y trasfondo del;
Mundo, iglesia
La unción debe permanecer y la fidelidad a Dios incondicional es el mejor arma contra Satanás
Mundo, iglesia
La unción debe permanecer y la fidelidad a Dios incondicional es el mejor arma contra Satanás
November 2, 2020
It was ok.
The narration was fantastic and nice to listen too. The book itself was a little long winded at some places.
The narration was fantastic and nice to listen too. The book itself was a little long winded at some places.
December 28, 2020
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
June 9, 2021
Some of this was so good and others of it was hard to grapple with. Definitely worth a read, though.
October 14, 2023
Another classic by Nee, But challenge Postmill. Thinking!
February 15, 2024
"Money is evil in itself" .. dunno, it says "love of money is the root of all evil"
February 14, 2025
I’m suspicious, but I had a pretty good time
November 4, 2025
This book (from the 60’s!) had some hot takes. I need to chew on some of them and others I don’t quite agree with. I appreciate that it made me think.
July 22, 2009
Nee, a 20th century Chinese martyr and theologian defines "the World", or in the Greek, "the cosmos". Fascinating discussions on self-actualization through schooling and medicine--arenas that most Christians find noble venues for self-promotion. Nee urges the believer to disentangle from the cosmos in all of its various forms--the world system as opposed to God's kingdom. We cannot live out of the world, but we do not have to live according to the world's practices. As only one tested and refined in the fires of persecution can, he lays out the high standard without compromise, and provides grace to achieve it.
February 18, 2013
I minister to a lot of people in the world, and when I say the world I mean in a system of thinking contrary to God/Jesus. So at times I feel almost the stench of more than the smell of smoke. Yet, I care about people and I love Jesus and want them to know Him.
This book will give you a clear view of the world and what it means to "love not the world". It will also keep you alert to the world around us.
I found this a great and liberating book when ministering to those who do not know Jesus. I feel like I minister to those in this world with my eyes open to what is going on around me.
Got you a little curious, good get the book! Read it at least a couple times.
This book will give you a clear view of the world and what it means to "love not the world". It will also keep you alert to the world around us.
I found this a great and liberating book when ministering to those who do not know Jesus. I feel like I minister to those in this world with my eyes open to what is going on around me.
Got you a little curious, good get the book! Read it at least a couple times.
January 1, 2014
A classic, this book presents a poignant consideration of the New Testament’s usage of the term “the world” (Gr., kosmos). It has almost a devotional quality to it and would be perfect for a small group topical study. It is a series of talks and is fitting therefore to be talked about. It is learned yet non-academic in style. Don’t let it’s easy-going style obscure the depths of experience it opens up. It is packed with revelation. If you haven’t read Watchman Nee before, this is a perfect one to start with.
November 8, 2015
We live in the world, but not of the world. To love not the World means to be able to drop everything for God at any time. God said that he still desires we live in the world and not live sheltered and away from the things of the world. But question we should ask ourselves is - When we touch the things of the world - How is this thing affecting my relationship with the Father? Need to realise that everything in the world system belongs to Satan and that when the kingdom comes it will all go away.
June 10, 2014
Watchman Nee, the classic Christian writer questions the Christian relationship with "the world". Essentially he treats all of life on earth as if it is naturally evil and something to be ambivalent towards. He doesn't share much about the practical steps for how to implement his solution. As I understand it, his solution could be re-worded as: "Be present in the world but with much fear and trembling lest you fall."
For me this was a little bit discouraging to read.
For me this was a little bit discouraging to read.
March 20, 2016
Simply amazing. This is my first exposure to Watchman Nee, and I was quite simply blown away! This book hit me at a time that the Lord was teaching me from His word many of the same things, but Nee's book put them in a different light that helped me see it even more clearly. This book is thoroughly scriptural and very accessible. At a little over one hundred pages many of you could read this in one sitting. Highest recommendation
December 20, 2016
Wow, there is so much contained in this book. I defiantly will be re-reading this one. Nee has a way of unpacking the Bible in such a clear concise way, which on one hand make him very engaging and easy to read. However to fully appreciate all his has to say, it needs to be re-read slowly probably a few times!
July 11, 2018
A clear and very hard-hitting look on how the Christian is not of this world and so should endeavor to operate accordingly. I like that this book challenged some of my long head beliefs and I gave me a new perspective on how to live a God-centered life in a world that is decidedly Self-centered.
This is a book I would recommend to any Christian who truly want to be salt and light.
This is a book I would recommend to any Christian who truly want to be salt and light.
September 6, 2008
Great read on how to get out of the world system - isn't that what we all want anyway? Watchman Nee is very matter of fact, but that helps nail home his message to quit messing around with your life in a broken system.
November 7, 2016
Everyone who wants to follow Christ fully and hate the world with passion must read this book
This is for those who wanna know absolute surrender
in lives and absolute submission to Christ. Anyone who loves the world is an enmity to God
This is for those who wanna know absolute surrender
in lives and absolute submission to Christ. Anyone who loves the world is an enmity to God
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews