Wrestling With Those Unanswerable Questions
A.W. Tozer explores the profound questions of existence and the limitations of human understanding in seeking answers.
A.W. Tozer addresses the existential questions that plague humanity, emphasizing our collective confusion about existence and purpose. He highlights the universal struggle to find answers to fundamental questions about our origin, identity, and destiny, only to discover that even the most learned individuals are often as lost as we are. Tozer points out that despite the vast resources of knowledge available, true understanding remains elusive, leaving us feeling like strangers in a world filled with unanswered questions. He encourages listeners to seek divine guidance, as human wisdom falls short in providing the peace and clarity we seek.
Text
All of us at some time in our life become suddenly aware that we are in a strange place called the world. We do not remember coming here and we are not sure when or how we are going to leave. A score of pressing questions fill our minds. We must have the answers. Where did we come from? What are we? Why are we here? Where do we go next? What does God require of us? How can we find the heaven of peace? Such questions as these insist upon an answer. But we have no answer. Then we approach someone who looks as if he might know. We eagerly put our question, but we get only a shake of the head and the usual, "I'm sorry.
I'm a stranger here myself." At first we are frightfully disappointed, for we had hoped someone might know.
There are the great stone buildings covered with ivy where the best brains of the world hold forth day after day. There are the great libraries piled with solemn books, each filled with learned words. But the desired answer is nowhere. A few attempt to direct us, but prove by their own bewilderment that they know as little as we do about the whole thing. The philosopher seeks, but never finds. The scientist searches, but finds no data to help us beyond the last hour and the narrow house and the shroud. The poet soars on stubby wings, but soon comes down again, tired and confused. Each one has the same answer: "I'm sorry. . . . I'm a stranger here myself."
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to the human condition - Awareness of existence - The quest for answers
- II points: - Common existential questions - The search for meaning - The role of God in our questions
- III points: - The limitations of human understanding - Philosophers and their struggles - The inadequacy of worldly knowledge
- IV points: - The disappointment in seeking answers - The universal experience of confusion - Finding hope amidst uncertainty
- V points: - The importance of faith - Trusting in God's plan - Seeking peace through spirituality
Key Quotes
“We must have the answers.” — A.W. Tozer
“But the desired answer is nowhere.” — A.W. Tozer
“I'm sorry. . . . I'm a stranger here myself.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Reflect on the questions that trouble your heart and seek God's guidance.
- Embrace the mystery of life and trust in God's greater plan.
- Find peace in faith, even when answers seem elusive.