We Were Made to Worship
Man was created to worship, and institutions that neglect this aspect of human nature are incomplete and unformed.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes that humanity was created for three fundamental purposes: to think, to worship, and to work. He argues that while intellectual development is important, it is insufficient without the element of worship, which connects us to the divine. Tozer highlights that true fulfillment comes from engaging our spirit in communion with God, allowing us to experience His presence and nature. He critiques educational institutions that focus solely on intellectual growth, suggesting that without worship, individuals remain incomplete. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of the need for spiritual awakening through Christ to achieve true life and purpose.
Text
Mans nature indicates that he was created for three things: To think, to worship and to work. But thinking is not enough. Men are made to worship also, to bow down and adore in the presence of the Mystery inexpressible. Mans mind is not the top peak of his nature. Higher than his mind is his spirit, that something within him which can engage the supernatural, which under the breath of the Spirit can come alive and enter into conscious communion with heaven, can receive the divine nature and hear and feel and see the ineffable wonder that is God.
When, therefore, an institution dedicated to the growth and development of the thinking person seeks at the same time to turn this thinker into a worshiper, our debt to that institution becomes all the greater.
So many schools on every level are content to train the intellect, forgetting that they are dealing with but part of the man-an important part certainly, but a part only. The wise of the world who have not learned to worship are but demi-men, unformed and rudimentary. Their further development awaits the life-giving touch of Christ to wake them to spiritual birth and life eternal.
Sermon Outline
- Man's Nature and Purpose
- The Higher Aspect of Man's Nature
- The Importance of Worship
- Institutions that train the intellect should also promote worship
- The wise of the world who do not worship are incomplete and unformed
Key Quotes
“Higher than his mind is his spirit, that something within him which can engage the supernatural, which under the breath of the Spirit can come alive and enter into conscious communion with heaven, can receive the divine nature and hear and feel and see the ineffable wonder that is God.” — A.W. Tozer
“The wise of the world who have not learned to worship are but demi-men, unformed and rudimentary.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Recognize the importance of worship in your life and make it a priority.
- Seek institutions that promote both intellectual growth and spiritual development.
- Acknowledge that true completeness and wholeness come from engaging the supernatural and receiving the divine nature.