Weakness Is the Way by J. I. Packer

GENRE: BOOKS, NON-FICTION, CHRISTIAN LIVING
PUBLISHER: CROSSWAY PUBLISHERS
RELEASE DATE: MAY 31, 2013

J. I. Packer is one of the most well-respected theologians around. Author of the highly popular, Knowing God, when Dr. Packer speaks, he oozes Christ-exalting wisdom. So when I heard he was releasing a new book on weakness, I was immediately interested. Weakness Is the Way is a small book that packs a big punch; and the swings might not come from the direction you would expect.

Based on 2 Corinthians, Dr. Packer begins by laying a foundation of what weakness is in its very practical, as well as theological forms. The reader is taken to the mind and motivation of Paul as he is writing to the church in Corinth. This section is solid.

Where Weakness Is the Way takes an unexpected turn for me, is when addressing the Christian’s giving in chapter 3. Dr. Packer takes a look at the role money should have for the Believer. Now, if I am writing a book about weakness, I am not sure I would spend a 1/4 of the book on money. However, to Dr. Packer’s credit, he ties it in beautifully to the theme of the book. And to be honest, the fact that so many of us seek security, comfort, and  strength in money shows that this portion of the discussion is much more needed than I would have given it credit for. Way to go Dr. Packer.

The book closes with a focus on where we “weak” beings can find our hope. These sinful and broken bodies are not the end. There is something better, after this, to look forward to.

All-in-all, this is classic Packer. Deep thoughts, broken down to the point that just about anyone can understand it. He is relatable, gentle, humorous, and ferociously about glorifying Christ throughout. It might not take the reader long to get through this little book, but the depth of the content is likely to have a lasting impact.

 

I received this book for free from Crossway in exchange for an honest review.