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The Person & Work of the Holy Spirit
In this deeply spiritual and warmly evangelical book, Dr. Torrey first carefully describes who the Holy Spirit is and how one can come to know Him as a person, just as real as Jesus Christ Himself, an ever-present, loving friend and mighty helper, who is always with us. Then he goes on to describe the work of the Spirit -- in the world and in the lives of Christians. His extensive study of the baptism with the Spirit is especially timely. Few people who read this book will come away without a new understanding of the Holy Spirit and a desire for the rich blessings one can realize through Him.
288 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 1910
694 people are currently reading
1050 people want to read
About the author
Reuben A. Torrey
540 books86 followersReuben Archer Torrey studied at Yale and in Germany before taking up a pastorate in the United States. As a gifted intellectual, administrator, and Bible teacher, he went on to pastor Moody Church in Chicago and became D.L. Moody's closest associate. In his later years, he traveled the world as an evangelist speaking to millions in Australia, New Zealand, India, England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Japan, China, Hawaii, Germany, the United States, and Canada. Torrey edited the last two volumes of the monumental "The Fundamentals" and was instrumental in the founding of both Moody Bible Institute and BIOLA University.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
February 2, 2014
The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit, by R. A. Torrey, is a Christian classic that is hard to judge. I had originally come to the book expecting to find so much to apply to my life. Initially, it was wonderful to read, and there was just so much spiritual food to get from the Biblical applications. Concepts such as I had never before considered were presented to me. Important truths that I felt shamed at not realizing. It was a wonderful time of contemplating the hidden truths (to me) of God's Word.
Then, well, then the troubles began. About a third of the way through the work, the charismatic thoughts of Torrey began to surface. The unScriptural heresies that would pollute the otherwise great, God-honoring work of the Azusa Street Revival are evident in this book.
I am not trying to start a theological battle with the Pentecostals and others in the Charismatic movements. I am merely pointing out that many of the pleas to feeling can be just as troubling an extreme as pure, cold logic, with no feeling. Most of the book is filled with these notions.
Also of troubling note in his work, is Torrey's constant reliance on “personal experiences” as evidences, and his assertion that folks should do unhealthy stuff in trust that God will naturally help them. I will be the first to say that feelings can have a beneficial impact on people. Testimonies of how God has impacted the lives of His people are powerful and can communicate powerful truths. I also want to say that we can, and quite obviously should, trust God to help us with our afflictions. Trusting God to help us to overcome our difficulties is something that the Bible attests as a solution to many problems.
The problem with the assertions that Torrey made in these regards is how (despite his cautions not to do so) Torrey seems to put personal experiences on a par with Biblical interpretation. Or rather, on a par with anyone else's Biblical interpretation. So right, so correct, is his interpretation, that the “experiences” that support it, are equal to or superior than, any other interpretation of the Word. Even if his interpretations are novel and new, they so very right to him. The lack of humility was absolutely galling. He outright dismisses any discussion as his personal history convinces him of all he needs to know in validating his ideas.
On the front of receiving God's help in overcoming problems, Torrey seems to not even consider that God may actually want the believer to struggle with said problem. The idea of encouraging a woman with a deep psychological fear of the dark to lock herself up in a dark attic to convince her grandmother of the power of the Holy Spirit, is frightening to me. He claims it ended well, but presuming on God's will, and not accepting some weaknesses and ailments, is to play a dangerous game. God promises to help us do His will and protect us as He sees fit. He does NOT promise to protect us from our foolish or stupid choices, OR to remove those problems He wishes for us to have as part of His plan. As a friend of mine recently pointed out, sometimes God has something to teach us through our difficulties. He sometimes won't rid us of them for that reason.
Despite my severe criticisms of Torrey, I want to present two caveats. First of all, Torrey seems to have realized some of the potential problems with what he was expounding, and while he did not back off of the problematic ideas, he did give some leeway to hopefully aid readers in avoiding any pitfalls. He largely failed, I would argue, but he was cognizant of the potential problems. As well, he really did help me to realize some Scriptural truths that have enormous implications for my life. God is not just God the Father and God the Son, but also God the Holy Spirit, as we all know. But rarely do we think of the import of this. You see, God the Holy Spirit quite obviously means what it says. God Himself is in each and every believer, including me. What's more, He can and will help me to do the Father's will. God the Holy Spirit if grieved when I sin. This is such an important and incredible realization of my responsibility to serve God and the awesome power at every believer's disposal.
The many other specific doctrinal pitfalls I will not discuss. This is a book review, not a separate book itself. I will freely say that such issues are many and troubling, but that the good for the discerning reader is also great. In Heaven, all things will be sorted out, but on earth, caution is needed in such an area as Scriptural interpretation. For those who are willing to be careful. R. A. Torrey has some good fruit. I must caution, however, that you pick up this work at your own risk.
Then, well, then the troubles began. About a third of the way through the work, the charismatic thoughts of Torrey began to surface. The unScriptural heresies that would pollute the otherwise great, God-honoring work of the Azusa Street Revival are evident in this book.
I am not trying to start a theological battle with the Pentecostals and others in the Charismatic movements. I am merely pointing out that many of the pleas to feeling can be just as troubling an extreme as pure, cold logic, with no feeling. Most of the book is filled with these notions.
Also of troubling note in his work, is Torrey's constant reliance on “personal experiences” as evidences, and his assertion that folks should do unhealthy stuff in trust that God will naturally help them. I will be the first to say that feelings can have a beneficial impact on people. Testimonies of how God has impacted the lives of His people are powerful and can communicate powerful truths. I also want to say that we can, and quite obviously should, trust God to help us with our afflictions. Trusting God to help us to overcome our difficulties is something that the Bible attests as a solution to many problems.
The problem with the assertions that Torrey made in these regards is how (despite his cautions not to do so) Torrey seems to put personal experiences on a par with Biblical interpretation. Or rather, on a par with anyone else's Biblical interpretation. So right, so correct, is his interpretation, that the “experiences” that support it, are equal to or superior than, any other interpretation of the Word. Even if his interpretations are novel and new, they so very right to him. The lack of humility was absolutely galling. He outright dismisses any discussion as his personal history convinces him of all he needs to know in validating his ideas.
On the front of receiving God's help in overcoming problems, Torrey seems to not even consider that God may actually want the believer to struggle with said problem. The idea of encouraging a woman with a deep psychological fear of the dark to lock herself up in a dark attic to convince her grandmother of the power of the Holy Spirit, is frightening to me. He claims it ended well, but presuming on God's will, and not accepting some weaknesses and ailments, is to play a dangerous game. God promises to help us do His will and protect us as He sees fit. He does NOT promise to protect us from our foolish or stupid choices, OR to remove those problems He wishes for us to have as part of His plan. As a friend of mine recently pointed out, sometimes God has something to teach us through our difficulties. He sometimes won't rid us of them for that reason.
Despite my severe criticisms of Torrey, I want to present two caveats. First of all, Torrey seems to have realized some of the potential problems with what he was expounding, and while he did not back off of the problematic ideas, he did give some leeway to hopefully aid readers in avoiding any pitfalls. He largely failed, I would argue, but he was cognizant of the potential problems. As well, he really did help me to realize some Scriptural truths that have enormous implications for my life. God is not just God the Father and God the Son, but also God the Holy Spirit, as we all know. But rarely do we think of the import of this. You see, God the Holy Spirit quite obviously means what it says. God Himself is in each and every believer, including me. What's more, He can and will help me to do the Father's will. God the Holy Spirit if grieved when I sin. This is such an important and incredible realization of my responsibility to serve God and the awesome power at every believer's disposal.
The many other specific doctrinal pitfalls I will not discuss. This is a book review, not a separate book itself. I will freely say that such issues are many and troubling, but that the good for the discerning reader is also great. In Heaven, all things will be sorted out, but on earth, caution is needed in such an area as Scriptural interpretation. For those who are willing to be careful. R. A. Torrey has some good fruit. I must caution, however, that you pick up this work at your own risk.
January 18, 2021
4.5 stars. Recommended to anyone looking for practical insights into living the Christian life. While I'm sure most readers would deem him a little "old fashioned," it is hard to contest Torrey's consistent turning to the Bible for answers to our questions.
As the title suggests, Torrey focuses around the Holy Spirit, providing a solid overview of Him as a person, then examining the actions of this person from the Scriptures. The writing reads like a sermon series, and, in addition to bountiful biblical evidence, contains many personal experiences and testimonies of the work of the Spirit in people's lives. These firsthand accounts reveal the author's heart for God and for working to bring salvation to people. Truly beautiful and admirable.
Along with finding a brother to whom I can look up, I was extremely pleased that Torrey frequently answered the "how" question to finish his observations. It was not enough for him to tell about something the Holy Spirit can do for a believer; he looked to the Scriptures to see HOW a believer can gain a partnership with the Holy Spirit in many ways. Since this "how" is pretty much absent from mainstream Christian teachings today, I really valued his insights. On a couple sections near the end, I would seek clarification--how can we both expect immediate baptism with the HS and expect to wait for it? etc. But it is merely clarification I seek, not criticism.
As the title suggests, Torrey focuses around the Holy Spirit, providing a solid overview of Him as a person, then examining the actions of this person from the Scriptures. The writing reads like a sermon series, and, in addition to bountiful biblical evidence, contains many personal experiences and testimonies of the work of the Spirit in people's lives. These firsthand accounts reveal the author's heart for God and for working to bring salvation to people. Truly beautiful and admirable.
Along with finding a brother to whom I can look up, I was extremely pleased that Torrey frequently answered the "how" question to finish his observations. It was not enough for him to tell about something the Holy Spirit can do for a believer; he looked to the Scriptures to see HOW a believer can gain a partnership with the Holy Spirit in many ways. Since this "how" is pretty much absent from mainstream Christian teachings today, I really valued his insights. On a couple sections near the end, I would seek clarification--how can we both expect immediate baptism with the HS and expect to wait for it? etc. But it is merely clarification I seek, not criticism.
November 25, 2025
Over the last 50 years I have read a lot of the writings of Reuben A. Torrey and never found him to be lacking. This book, like all the other things he has authored, is sound, solid, scriptural and interesting. The information presented here is powerful, precise and personal. My recommendation is that you read it and that you heed it.
That is not to say I agree with everything he writes [only about 99.9%] but I respect his reasoning, rationale and responses.
That is not to say I agree with everything he writes [only about 99.9%] but I respect his reasoning, rationale and responses.
November 8, 2024
A solid study of the Holy Spirit that will sure benefit the reader despite conflating the baptism of the Spirit with being filled with the Spirit.
January 20, 2023
Very enlightening
R A Torrey's writing enlightened me on the Holy Spirit, it was if I was being introduce to Him for the very first time and I began to desired hunger for a closer relationship and in deed begin to seek for that now; a refreshing fill of the Holy Spirit, given without measure; Hallelujah!
R A Torrey's writing enlightened me on the Holy Spirit, it was if I was being introduce to Him for the very first time and I began to desired hunger for a closer relationship and in deed begin to seek for that now; a refreshing fill of the Holy Spirit, given without measure; Hallelujah!
January 30, 2023
Marvelous classic biblical teaching about the Holy Spirit
R. A. Torrey, a revivalist in the time of Moody and Finney, left for us this comprehensive textbook about the Holy Spirit who fuels personal and corporate revival. Although the author quotes from the King James and Revised versions of the Bible and writes in the more intellectual and scholarly style of a bygone era which make this a more difficult text than more contemporary works; nevertheless this book is worth the investment of time and effort to read.
The author discusses very systematically who the Holy Spirit is and how he has worked as a connection between God and humanity since the dawn of creation. Torrey has some great instructions on how to be filled with the Holy Spirit and equipped for victorious living in Christ. He concludes his tome with an explanation of how the Spirit’s work in Jesus during His ministry on earth was the perfect example of what Holy Spirit can do for those who receive Him.
Anyone who wants to learn about Holy Sprit should read this book. Its expert use of Scripture quotations, explanations, examples from the Bible and his life and ministry provide excellent insights and practical application regarding almost every aspect of the third Person of our triune God. And while there is certainly an investment of time and concentration to read it, the ebook itself is free!
R. A. Torrey, a revivalist in the time of Moody and Finney, left for us this comprehensive textbook about the Holy Spirit who fuels personal and corporate revival. Although the author quotes from the King James and Revised versions of the Bible and writes in the more intellectual and scholarly style of a bygone era which make this a more difficult text than more contemporary works; nevertheless this book is worth the investment of time and effort to read.
The author discusses very systematically who the Holy Spirit is and how he has worked as a connection between God and humanity since the dawn of creation. Torrey has some great instructions on how to be filled with the Holy Spirit and equipped for victorious living in Christ. He concludes his tome with an explanation of how the Spirit’s work in Jesus during His ministry on earth was the perfect example of what Holy Spirit can do for those who receive Him.
Anyone who wants to learn about Holy Sprit should read this book. Its expert use of Scripture quotations, explanations, examples from the Bible and his life and ministry provide excellent insights and practical application regarding almost every aspect of the third Person of our triune God. And while there is certainly an investment of time and concentration to read it, the ebook itself is free!
May 26, 2025
This book is an essential read for the Christian. It contains so much truth, as these words:
Any profound book is immeasurably more interesting and helpful when we have the author of the book right at hand to interpret it to us, and it is always our privilege to have the author of the Bible right at hand when we study it. The Holy Spirit is the Author of the Bible and stands ready to interpret its meaning to every believer every time he opens the Book. - R. A. Torrey
When you awaken to the Holy Spirit, He gives you power to witness, power to understand, and the peace that passes worldly understanding of the word. He gives the gifts of the Spirit to carry out His plans for each of us, plans for us here on earth. One might be gifting a new language to communicate with the Spirit. There are different gifts for each. The Holy Spirit has a work to do within each of us, and when He is freed to do so, He creates the fruit of the Spirit. (see Galatians 5:22-23)
Any profound book is immeasurably more interesting and helpful when we have the author of the book right at hand to interpret it to us, and it is always our privilege to have the author of the Bible right at hand when we study it. The Holy Spirit is the Author of the Bible and stands ready to interpret its meaning to every believer every time he opens the Book. - R. A. Torrey
When you awaken to the Holy Spirit, He gives you power to witness, power to understand, and the peace that passes worldly understanding of the word. He gives the gifts of the Spirit to carry out His plans for each of us, plans for us here on earth. One might be gifting a new language to communicate with the Spirit. There are different gifts for each. The Holy Spirit has a work to do within each of us, and when He is freed to do so, He creates the fruit of the Spirit. (see Galatians 5:22-23)
June 9, 2018
Very enjoyable read. RA shows an unwavering commitment to what is clearly put forth in scripture. At the same time he puts forth a mass of experience and anecdote in support of the things promised in scripture, but never subverts that order. Much of the book surrounds the key themes of the surety of the promise of the Spirit, the importance of seeking the Spirit in line with what is put forth in scripture, and the primacy of Christian ministry in the working of the Spirit. Torrey does a great job both theologically and pastorally, connecting doctrine and devotion, as he captures the absolute necessity of the work of the Spirit in the daily life of the believer.
August 1, 2025
I great teaching book about a subject not talked enough about today. All serious Christians should read this one. Even if your disagree on some parts it should at provoke some very serious thinking. You just might decide that just maybe he is right in the money.
It’s a great read.
Totally happy I read it. Just might read it again.
It’s a great read.
Totally happy I read it. Just might read it again.
December 18, 2018
Powerful study of the Holy Spirit
Incredible study of the Person and work of the Holy Spirit in the believer and in Christ Jesus earthly mission. The case for a Baptism of the Holy Spirit to equip the believer to the work for which he or she has been called.
Incredible study of the Person and work of the Holy Spirit in the believer and in Christ Jesus earthly mission. The case for a Baptism of the Holy Spirit to equip the believer to the work for which he or she has been called.
May 1, 2020
Most Closest and deepest understanding of holy spirit
Most Closest and deepest understanding of holy spirit..this acts as reference guide to many who are starving to understand holyspirit
Most Closest and deepest understanding of holy spirit..this acts as reference guide to many who are starving to understand holyspirit
April 19, 2021
I give this book 5 stars it gives great details about the person and work of the Holy Spirit!!! Understanding His role, His will and nature. This book is a very good read for anyone who is interested in knowing about the fullness of the divine nature .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2021
Very interesting read! Definitely gave me a better understanding of the HOLY SPIRIT and my relationship with HIM. Would suggest you read it, if you're not really sure about the HOLY SPIRIT and how IT fits into your life.
December 10, 2021
Outstanding!
Considering its original publication, this is stil a very relevant book everyone should read. The author gives a full and accurate depiction of who the Holy Spirit is in our hearts.
Considering its original publication, this is stil a very relevant book everyone should read. The author gives a full and accurate depiction of who the Holy Spirit is in our hearts.
May 29, 2022
Excellent overview of the Person and Work of the Holy Spirit.
This book is a great summary of basic Biblical knowledge for anyone that wants a deeper understanding and growing relationship with the Holy Spirit.
This book is a great summary of basic Biblical knowledge for anyone that wants a deeper understanding and growing relationship with the Holy Spirit.
May 4, 2023
Greater things than this you will do!
Very insightful! The amount of practical application found in this book reads almost like the book of acts! This is the way the Holy ghost should work! Still works, and will continue to work all the way until that trumpet sounds!
Very insightful! The amount of practical application found in this book reads almost like the book of acts! This is the way the Holy ghost should work! Still works, and will continue to work all the way until that trumpet sounds!
May 23, 2023
Clear, Scriptural Explanation of the Holy Spirit
Wonderful description of the work of the Holy Spirit. Torrey skillfully explains scripture and provides helpful examples from his and the lives of others.and
Wonderful description of the work of the Holy Spirit. Torrey skillfully explains scripture and provides helpful examples from his and the lives of others.and
December 10, 2023
Depth. I hadn't pondered the ideas that he put forth. I had never thought of holy spirit to have any purpose or contribution to the trilogy. Humbled, makes me look at my thoughts and actions in a more scrutinizing manner.
August 5, 2024
Great book..
Had to read this book for a ministry class I took..
The Book I have is still in kjv and is hard to read because of the use of the early 1900s language.. it forced me to literally read a paragraph at a time and therefor I learned a great deal about the Hoky Spirit.
Had to read this book for a ministry class I took..
The Book I have is still in kjv and is hard to read because of the use of the early 1900s language.. it forced me to literally read a paragraph at a time and therefor I learned a great deal about the Hoky Spirit.
June 29, 2018
Torrey's a favorite of mine, but this didn't overwhelm me with its insight. I recall it being solid, still, though.
July 3, 2018
Transforming wisdom, Holy Spirit essential capacity under the direction of our Lord.
December 6, 2018
The Believers Victory!
Every be!I ever in Christ needs to read this! He is our every moment companion. We serve a "Living God!"
Every be!I ever in Christ needs to read this! He is our every moment companion. We serve a "Living God!"
February 8, 2019
helped to search deeper for the Holy Spirit
March 27, 2019
Truth, when being truthfully regarded and shared is a unique blessing! Our God, by the Holy Spirit has blessed us beyond measure through His only begotten Son! Delay
July 12, 2019
Classic work on Holy Spirit
Very good understanding and challenge to understand and participated with the Holy Spirit in ministry calling and life as a Christian.
Very good understanding and challenge to understand and participated with the Holy Spirit in ministry calling and life as a Christian.
October 5, 2020
Enjoyed this book as a part of my study of the Holy Spirit. A few parts I didn’t agree with, at least at this early point in my study, so I may come back to this study later and update it.
May 30, 2021
Easily one of the best books about the Holy Spirit that I've ever read!
December 27, 2021
A MUST read for every Christian!!
A MUST read for every Christian !! Great insight. Fairly easy to read. Again, I encourage you A MUST read for every Christian!!
A MUST read for every Christian !! Great insight. Fairly easy to read. Again, I encourage you A MUST read for every Christian!!
April 25, 2023
Powerful! I am so thankful for Holy Spirit! This book made me want to go deeper and know Him more.
May 29, 2024
Good but Not Great
This book is dated. At times it was hard to follow. And I think Torrey is a little off base on the Spirits relationship to the Father and the Son
This book is dated. At times it was hard to follow. And I think Torrey is a little off base on the Spirits relationship to the Father and the Son
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews