Books A Living Sacrifice Book by Watchman Nee

A Living Sacrifice

By Watchman Nee

Overview

A Living Sacrifice is the first volume in Watchman Nee’s Basic Lesson Series, offering foundational teachings on practical Christian living. Compiled from a series of messages delivered in 1948 during a training for Christian workers in Kuling, China, the book lays out essential steps for spiritual growth and discipleship. Nee’s approach moves beyond theory, urging readers to embody a deep, whole-life commitment to God, rooted in both personal surrender and concrete, daily practices238.

Structure and Main Topics

Chapters

Baptism

Concluding the Past

Selling All

Consecration

Studying the Bible

Prayer

Early Rising2689

Key Teachings

1. Baptism: Separation from the World

Meaning: Baptism is presented as more than a ritual—it marks a decisive, public break from the old world-system, an outward declaration of new allegiance to God and a new status after salvation.

Spiritual Dimension: True deliverance, according to Nee, is not just from sinful acts but from the world’s fundamental opposition to God, recognizing its condemnation and breaking ties with it18.

2. Concluding the Past

Clearing the Slate: Nee emphasizes the importance of formally ending old patterns, debts, and unresolved matters. Only by dealing honestly and thoroughly with the past can Christians build a solid spiritual foundation.

3. Selling All: Radical Commitment

Cost of Discipleship: Echoing the teachings of Jesus, Nee advocates for a life of total surrender, where believers are willing to relinquish anything that stands in the way of full devotion to Christ.

Internal Surrender: The focus is not as much on outward deprivation, but on the inward act of prioritizing God above all else5.

4. Consecration: Living for God’s Purposes

Voluntary Dedication: Nee distinguishes true consecration as an intentional, willing act—choosing to set oneself apart wholly for God’s service. He uses the metaphor of a purchased servant freely offering allegiance to his master, highlighting willing devotion, not mere obligation5.

Sequence of Offerings: Nee references Old Testament sacrificial types, showing that consecration follows forgiveness and acceptance by God, leading to a life marked by purposeful service.

5. Studying the Bible

“Spiritual Detective” Method: Nee urges meticulous, observant reading of Scripture. He suggests four stages: observation, memorization, interpretation, and application. This practical method aims to ground believers deeply in truth, equipping them for discernment and growth5.

6. Prayer

Anchor of Spiritual Life: Prayer is portrayed as essential communication with God—both a discipline and a living relationship that underpins all other spiritual practices.

7. Early Rising

Prioritizing the Spiritual: Nee advocates beginning each day with God, fostering a habit of seeking spiritual nourishment and direction before engaging with the demands of daily life.

Foundational Principles

Reception and Use

Highly Practical: The book is often praised for its accessible, straightforward discipleship tips, suitable for both new and experienced Christians10.

Building the Church: Nee’s vision is that these lessons provide a spiritual foundation not just for individuals but for the strengthening of the entire Christian community4.

Core Takeaways

True Christian life demands a total, joyful surrender to God.

Effective discipleship rests on both initial, decisive acts (baptism, surrender) and ongoing disciplines (Bible study, prayer, daily consecration).

Spiritual practices are interwoven—a solid foundation is built by integrating all facets of devotion and discipline358.

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