There are many books about God’s nature, but few explain it with the reverence and depth that The Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer does. This book has been a favourite for many years because it does more than list God’s qualities. It helps us know the holy God in a way that changes our hearts and lives.
First published in 1961, the book is made up of short chapters, each one looking closely at a different attribute of God. These include His infinity, His unchanging nature, His holiness, and His control over all things. Tozer writes simply but beautifully, combining sound teaching with a deep love for God.
Tozer warns that if we have a shallow or wrong view of God, it will hurt our spiritual growth. We can feel dry and distant from God. But when we come to know God truly, our faith grows stronger, our prayers become more sincere, and our worship becomes full of joy and awe. The book invites us to go beyond just knowing about God, to knowing Him personally through the Spirit, where Christ lives fully in us.
One of the great strengths of this book is that it is balanced. It is not too academic or complicated, but it is also not too simple or vague. It gently guides us to a faith centred on Christ, grounded in Scripture and filled with the Spirit. Some parts may be challenging for those new to the faith, but with prayer and careful reading, the book is very rewarding.
This book should be on every Christian’s shelf. Pastors, mature Christians, and anyone who wants to understand God better will find their view of God’s holiness deepened and their hearts moved to worship. As we learn more about God, we are changed — our faith grows, our love increases, and our lives come more into line with His will.
If you want to know God as He truly is, The Knowledge of the Holy is an excellent guide for the journey.
Key Attributes of God in The Knowledge of the Holy #
| Attribute | What the Bible Says | How it Helps the Believer |
|---|---|---|
| Infinity | God has no limits in time or space. (Psalm 147:5) | It fills us with wonder at God’s greatness. |
| Unchanging | God does not change at all. (Malachi 3:6) | Gives us security, knowing He keeps His promises. |
| Holiness | God is perfectly pure and set apart. (Isaiah 6:3) | Calls us to live pure lives and worship Him in awe. |
| Sovereignty | God rules over all things. (Psalm 103:19) | Brings peace and trust, even when life is hard. |
| Omnipresence | God is everywhere at once. (Jeremiah 23:24) | Comforts us because God is always near. |
| All-knowing | God knows everything — past, present, and future. (Psalm 139:4) | Assures us that He understands us completely and guides us well. |
| All-powerful | God can do all things. (Revelation 19:6) | Gives us hope and courage to trust His control. |
“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.”
— A.W. Tozer, The Knowledge of the Holy
Summary #
- This book helps readers move from just knowing facts about God to truly worshipping Him.
- It combines clear teaching with warmth and love for God.
- Best read slowly, with prayer and reflection.
- Encourages us to check how we see God and lets the Holy Spirit change our hearts.
- Especially good for mature Christians and those wanting to grow deeper in their faith.
~ Godwin.
