J.I. Packer’s Knowing God is a classic find on many Christian bookshelves. This profound piece of theological literature has been instrumental in helping Christians around the world discover the joy and wonder of knowing God more intimately. It has been endorsed by giants of the faith like Billy Graham and Joni Eareckson Tada. If you haven’t read it already, you may be wondering if this should be the next title on your list as you grow in your walk with God.
Knowing God is a practical and engaging guide to strengthening one’s connection with the Lord. Emphasizing the need to know about God and know God through a close relationship with Jesus Christ, Packer combines intellectual and relational elements to deepen our understanding of God and His attributes.
One of the biggest strengths of the book is its continuous draw from biblical passages, demonstrating Packer’s reliance on the Old and New Testaments to support his arguments. He leaves no theological stone unturned, tackling even the most challenging doctrines about God with balance and fairness.
While many will only rave about this book, it is not without its downsides. Some may find the outdated cultural references and densely packed chapters challenging to process. There is also a bit of legalism to contend with. For instance, Packer claims that any and all images of God are unbiblical, citing the second commandment. Many Christians disagree on this issue, saying that artistic depictions of Jesus or the Father’s attributes can serve as a reminder of His presence and greatness. If you are willing to overlook these issues, they are a small price to pay for the abundance of spiritual wisdom this book offers.
In essence, Knowing God is a great choice for those committed to deepening their relationship with God. It encourages Christians to not only know about God but truly come to know Him personally. Because of this, Knowing God is better suited for personal reading rather than group study. It can serve as a guide, providing wisdom and spiritual insights that are as relevant today as they were when it was first written. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that to know God truly, we must let him teach us about Himself through scripture.