But Packer finds a remarkable way of expressing this tension using the doctrines of justification and adoption: Many have struggled to understand the place of the law in the life of the Christian. To be right with God the judge is a great thing, but to be loved and cared for by God the Father is a greater (207).
Closeness, affection and generosity are at the heart of the relationship. In adoption, God takes us into his family and fellowship-he establishes us as his children and heirs. Adoption is a family idea, conceived in terms of love, and viewing God as father. Justification is a forensic idea, conceived in terms of law, and viewing God as judge. Here are a couple examples from this chapter of his ability to capture profound biblical truth in clear, vivid, and compelling terms: His chapter entitled “Sons of God” is one of the most beautiful presentations of the doctrine of adoption that I have ever read. In this book, Packer brings together two important facets of the Christian faith―knowing about God and knowing him personally through a relationship with Jesus Christ. Packer’s classic has been an important resource for helping Christians around the world discover the wonder, the glory, and the joy of knowing God.
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