Knowing God by J.I. Packer
Week 9: Election and Adoption — Chapters 13–14
Read Chapters 13–14 of Knowing God ("The Grace of God" revisited / Predestination; "God's Children"). Key Scripture: Ephesians 1:3–14; Romans 8:14–17; Galatians 4:4–7
Previewing Week 9 of Knowing God
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 14-week guide when you’re ready.
Packer argues that the doctrine of adoption — not justification, not even regeneration — is the highest privilege the gospel offers, and that few Christians have grasped it deeply enough.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Packer famously argues in these chapters that adoption is "the highest privilege that the gospel offers — higher even than justification." Why does he rank it so highly? Do you find that claim convincing or surprising?
2.Packer distinguishes between the status of "justified sinner" (acquitted in the court of God) and the status of "adopted child" (welcomed into the family of God). Both involve the removal of condemnation, but adoption involves something more. What is that "something more," and why does it matter for daily Christian experience?
3.Packer highlights Romans 8:15–16 — "you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" — as the irreducible mark of the Christian's identity. How often do you actually approach God as Father in this intimate, trusting, child-like way? What tends to prevent it?