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  Review: Alive in the Spirit by A.W. Tozer

  Nov 26, 2016

  Alive in the Spirit by A.W. Tozer is perhaps the most personal collection of Tozer’s teachings. This material has never been published before. It is a book directed to the individual and the indwelling/baptism of the Holy Spirit. The book assumes that the reader is already a born again Christian, and understandably so as the material is derived from sermons that focus on the work of the Holy Spirit after conversion. If you are not familiar with the Christian faith, you may want to read Tozer’s Total Commitment to Christ or The Pursuit of God first.

  That said, this is an important book for those seeking a deeper relationship with God. Tozer’s testimony and personal experiences with the Person of the Holy Spirit inspire reflection and application. You will learn the Holy Spirit’s part in the Trinity, recognize His work and value in your life.

  One of my favorite chapters is “Chapter 6 The Penetrating Voice of the Holy Spirit”. But here a modern apologist may stand apart from Tozer who states on page 67 that faith is “Not a matter of reason at all.” I, an apologist wanna-be, would say faith, which is not blind at all,  is the most reasonable thing in the world. But that apologist would agree that “Our faith does not rest upon nor depend upon historical evidence, but upon the invisible presence witnessing to the inner life and our response to that voice.” (pg 66)

  “Chapter 11 The Holy Spirit: An Uncomfortable Presence” is also notable. I appreciate that Tozer never sugar coats a relationship with God. This chapter points out those things in our character that would be challenged by a life submitted to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

  Dr. James L. Snyder, the award winning author and pastor who compiled and edited the book, states in the introduction that this is not a book “to be read in one sitting.” I heartily agree. This is a book to digest slowly, meditating and making applications as the Lord leads. Application questions follow each chapter to guide you. This book is a keeper; repetitive readings would be beneficial.

  If I have any criticisms it may be the few times that seem to make references to Tozer writing the book as in Chapter 1 on page 14 where it says, “Later on I will devote a chapter...” It was confusing to me as I thought these chapters were compiled from sermons, and it created a break in my concentration. Hardly reason to put down the book, however.

  I highly recommend Alive in the Spirit to those wishing to take the next step after conversion. I also think it would make a great study for small groups.

  I received my copy of the book free from Bethany House.

  Tags: #HolySpirit, #God, #BookReview, #Tozer, #AWTozer, #AliveintheSpirit, #JamesLSnyder

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