Aiden Wilson (A.W.) Tozier 1897 - 1963
AW Tozer is probably the most quoted pastor and author of the twentieth
century. His sermons and writings are not for the modern,
tolerant, compromising and neutral philosopher. He was not afraid
to tell it like it is, whatever the consequences. He was not
interested in tickling the ears of his listeners. Warren Wiersbe
once said of Tozer, "If a sermon can be compared to light, then AW Tozer
released a laser beam from the pulpit, a beam that penetrated your
heart".
His books, like his preaching, were extensions of his prayer life, characterized by an intense spirituality, encouraging the reader to seek and pursue a deeper and more personal relationship with God. His two most popular books which stressed these themes are widely regarded as Christian classics, The Pursuit of God and The Knowledge of the Holy.
In ministry for over forty years, Mr Tozer spent thirty one as pastor of Southside Alliance Church in Chicago, but he probably reached even more people through his writings. He authored almost fifty books and in 1950, he became editor of The Alliance Weekly magazine, doing all this without the advantage of a Bible School education or seminary training. He simply spent hours upon hours down on his knees with an open Bible spread before him. Mr Tozer felt that the best author was not one who taught the reader from his books, but one who inspired the reader to reach for the Bible and allow himself to be taught by the Holy Spirit.
AW Tozer and his wife, Ada lived a very simple life. They never owned a car, preferring bus and train travel, and were content with such basics as food, clothing and his favorite books. He even signed away much of his book royalties to those in need.
Mr Tozer had seven children, six boys and one girl. He died
suddenly of a heart attack in 1963 and was buried in Akron, Ohio.
A simple and fitting epitaph marks his grave,
"A. W. Tozer - A Man of God".
Articles and Booklets
- The Speaking Voice (from The Pursuit of God)