Summary
In "Knowing God," J.I. Packer delves into the profound subject of truly understanding God, emphasizing that it's not just about knowing facts, but a transformative experience. The book opens by highlighting the importance of studying God, not merely as an intellectual exercise but as a vital pursuit for a fulfilling life. Packer argues that without knowledge of God, the world becomes a confusing and meaningless place. He encourages readers to approach the study of God with a practical mindset, seeking to apply the knowledge gained to their daily lives and not just to acquire theological expertise.
The book then examines the characteristics of people who genuinely know God. They possess great energy for God, actively challenging situations where God's honor is at stake. They hold great thoughts of God, recognizing His sovereignty in all things. They demonstrate great boldness for God, unwavering in their convictions. And they have great contentment in God, finding peace in their relationship with Him, regardless of life's trials.
Packer then explores the attributes of God, starting with His immutability – the unchanging nature of His life, character, truth, ways, and purposes. This serves as a foundation for understanding that the God of the Bible is the same God we interact with today. The book explores God's majesty, His wisdom, and the difference between His wisdom and ours, as well as the importance of receiving God's Word as absolute truth.
A significant portion of "Knowing God" addresses the nature of God's love, His grace, and His sometimes misunderstood attribute of jealousy. Packer explains how God's love is an exercise of His goodness towards sinners, displayed most clearly in the gift of His Son. Grace is defined as God's unmerited favor, essential for both pardon and salvation. God's jealousy, far from being a negative trait, is presented as His zeal to protect the love relationship He has with His people.
The book delves into the heart of the gospel, focusing on the concept of propitiation – the appeasement of God's wrath through Christ's sacrifice. Packer argues that this doctrine is central to understanding the Christian faith, and he explains how propitiation makes sense of many seemingly difficult aspects of the gospel, such as the Incarnation and the atonement. He further emphasizes the importance of receiving the gospel as good news of deliverance from God's wrath.
The final section of the book explores the benefits and privileges of being a child of God. It delves into the profound meaning of adoption, the Christian's status as sons and daughters of God. Packer highlights the significance of this adoptive relationship as the basis for Christian conduct, prayer, and the life of faith. He explains how adoption assures us of God's love, clarifies the Christian hope of sharing in Christ's glory, and provides a framework for understanding the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the pursuit of holiness. The book concludes with a powerful message about the adequacy of God, His sufficiency to meet every need of those who trust in Him. Packer encourages Christians to live in Romans 8, rejoicing in God's constant presence, protection, provision, and unwavering love. He emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His wisdom, even amidst trials and uncertainties.