Rediscovering Holiness

J. I. Packer's strength, I am convinced, lies in his understanding of sanctification. His depth of Biblical insight and practical counsel makes this an excellent volume on Christian holiness. Various areas of the subject are discussed at length. Packer shows how sanctification relates to the entire salvation process, putting the pursuit of holiness in the context of God's overall saving purposes. He also provides some excellent bounderies in his discussion, which will keep us from many an extreme. Of particular value is a chapter called "Holiness: The Panoramic View" which focuses on six different strands of teaching regarding sanctification that are often presented in isolation from each other, taking part for whole. Packer shows that each tradition emphasizes aspects of truth - and when they are all taken together, a very comprehensive, Biblically-oriented, and well-rounded theology of sanctification emerges. The seven propositions concerning holiness developed in Keep In Step with the Spirit (see my review) are gone over more briefly here. But there is much which is new. An excellent chapter focuses on repentance as a lifestyle, using the saintly English Reformer/martyr John Bradford as a model. There is also a sustained focus on the necessity of God's empowering us in our pursuit of holiness - and of our need for endurance - thus, a balance between a life of dependence and a life of perseverance is maintained.As is so characteristic of Dr. Packer, this book combines deep theology with lucid style, simple illustration, and Biblical exposition, leaving us with a very readable rediscovery of a vital biblical truth. I highly recommend it!

I have given away more copies of this book than any other. There is no other book (other than the Bible!) that I have read that explains more clearly the relationship that God desires to have with us. Packer is not an easy read, but you will be challenged and humbled by his writing. I pick this book up and read pieces of it at least a few times a week.