Knowing God

John W. Burgeson (burgy@compuserve.com)
Tue, 8 Apr 1997 12:14:46 -0400

Steve Jones asked about a reference to J. I. Packer's comments on "Knowing
God." I had mentioned that Packer had said (paraphrased) that "knowing God"
was a lot more important than "knowing about God."

I checked my daughter's copy of Packer's KNOWING GOD at her place this
evening -- the concept is pervasive throughout that book and is discussed
in some detail around page 34 or so.

I have a friend, Tim, who knows God probably better than I do, yet I am
quite sure I know more about God than he does. Tim, you see, is a 32 year
old guy with Downs syndrome.

Packer argues that "Knowing God" means establishing a relationship with Him
-- or, rather, accepting from Him the relationship he is always ready to
offer. This is important. "Knowing about God" may be done by any
intelligent person -- it, in itself, does not guarantee that this
relationship is established.

Packer's book is recommended.

Burgy