May 2ndQuote of the Day

The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, “Sir, we would see Jesus.”–John 12:21

Toward anything like thorough scholarship I make no claim. I am not an authority on any man’s teaching; I have never tried to be. I take my help where I find it and set my heart to graze where the pastures are greenest. Only one stipulation do I make: my teacher must know God, as Carlyle said, “otherwise than by hearsay,” and Christ must be all in all to him. If a man have only correct doctrine to offer me I am sure to slip out at the first intermission to seek the company of someone who has seen for himself how lovely is the face of Him who is the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the Valley. Such a man can help me, and no one else can. A. W. Tozer

One of my favorite authors, ever since I first read The Pursuit of God has been A. W. Tozer. For several years, I have subscribed to a daily email devotional that has been compiled from his writings by Literature Ministries International. Every year when this quote comes around, I just want to shout Amen! The only reason I can possibly see to listen to someone else — especially in the church — is if they know God “otherwise than by hearsay.” Without that, preaching is nothing more than hot air, and possibly harmful hot air at that. I can forgive a preacher a lot of imperfections if he can help me see Christ more clearly. But no amount of suave or polish or correct doctrine can ever make up for the absence of a heart that burns from time spent with Christ.

Bonus: I was really pleased to hear from my dad, long after my grandpa died, that he, too, was a big fan of A. W. Tozer. Neat thing to have in common with him.