How Can a Beginner Use The Pursuit of God as a Bible Study?

A Pursuit of God Bible study for beginners should make spiritual growth understandable without making it shallow. A. W. Tozer writes about seeking God, surrender, faith, worship, God’s presence, and knowing Him personally. These subjects may feel large, but a beginner can approach them one step at a time.

The goal is not to understand every difficult sentence immediately. The goal is to let the book raise important questions, then return to Scripture for truth and direction.

Who is this beginner’s study for?

This study is appropriate for someone who is new to Christian reading, new to structured Bible study, returning to faith after a long absence, or simply unfamiliar with Tozer’s writing. It can also help a more mature believer walk patiently with a newer Christian.

A simple seven-step method

1. Pray briefly before reading. Ask God for understanding, honesty, and a willingness to obey.
2. Read one chapter slowly. Mark sentences about God, faith, surrender, worship, or spiritual hunger.
3. Write the main idea in your own words. Limit yourself to one or two sentences.
4. Read one or two related Bible passages. Scripture is the final authority, not the study book.
5. Answer three basic questions. What does this reveal about God? What response does Scripture call for? What will I do?
6. Write a short prayer. Turn the lesson into praise, confession, thanksgiving, surrender, or a request for help.
7. Take one practical step. Complete it before reading the next chapter.

Beginner-friendly Scriptures to use

Three questions to ask after every chapter

1. What does this teach me about God?

Look for truths about God’s holiness, love, presence, authority, wisdom, faithfulness, and grace. Write one clear statement beginning with, “God is…” or “God does….”

2. What response does Scripture call for?

Look for a command to obey, a promise to trust, a sin to confess, a fear to surrender, or an attitude to change.

3. What will I do before the next study?

Choose one realistic action. Examples include praying through Psalm 63, memorizing John 15:5, apologizing to someone, removing a distraction during prayer, or discussing the lesson with a trusted believer.

A ten-week beginner plan

The Pursuit of God contains ten chapters, so one chapter per week creates a natural ten-week study. Use the same rhythm each week:

• Read the chapter.
• Write a two-sentence summary.
• Read the assigned Scripture.
• Answer the three questions.
• Write a prayer.
• Complete one action.
• Review that action before continuing.

A beginner does not need to master the entire book in ten weeks. The purpose is to establish a repeatable habit of reading, studying, praying, and obeying.

How to handle difficult language or ideas

When a sentence is difficult, read the paragraph again and ask what problem Tozer is addressing. Then write the idea in simpler language. Do not build a major belief on one unclear sentence. Compare the idea with Scripture and, when necessary, ask a mature Christian, small-group leader, or pastor for help.

Common beginner mistakes to avoid

• Reading too quickly: finishing pages is not the same as understanding them.
• Using the book instead of the Bible: Tozer can guide reflection, but Scripture remains the authority.
• Trying to change everything at once: choose one clear application each week.
• Waiting to feel perfectly prepared: growth often begins with a small act of obedience.
• Studying completely alone: questions and accountability are often helpful.

Can beginners study together?

Yes. Two or three beginners can meet for 45 to 60 minutes. Begin with prayer, summarize the chapter, read one passage, discuss one question, identify one application, and pray for one another. Keep the meeting focused and allow everyone to participate.

A study edition for readers who want more structure

Readers who want chapter summaries, study tools, word searches, and practical connections to abiding in Christ and disciple-making may find The Pursuit of God (Annotated): A Modern Study Guide to A. W. Tozer’s Classic on Abiding in Christ and Making Disciples helpful.

Frequently asked questions