Evangelism and God’s Sovereignty

Written in 1973, 'Knowing God' by J.I. Packer is a seminal work that divides into three main sections. The first section, 'Knowing the Lord,' focuses on how and why we know God, emphasizing the importance of listening to God’s word and understanding His nature. The second section, 'Behold Your God,' delves into the attributes of God such as His love, grace, wisdom, justice, and sovereignty. The third section explores the practical applications of knowing God, including the gospel message and what it means to live as a Christian. Packer stresses that knowing God is not merely intellectual but involves a heartfelt and voluntary application of truths about God to daily life, leading to a deeper fellowship with Him and a life of worship and obedience.

J. I. Packer's "Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God" addresses the apparent tension between God's sovereignty and human responsibility in evangelism. Packer argues that God's sovereignty doesn't negate the importance of evangelistic efforts. Instead, it underscores the need for reliance on God's power in the process of conversion. The book explores the theological underpinnings of evangelism within a Calvinistic framework, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit and the necessity of prayer. It challenges common misconceptions about Calvinism and its implications for missionary work. Packer's work remains influential in shaping evangelical approaches to evangelism.