From one of the best books of our generation by one of the great theologians of our generation, the following quote reveals why this 30-year-old book is still so widely read and appreciated.

“It is not for us to imagine that we can prove the truth of Christianity by our arguments; nobody can prove the truth of Christianity except the Holy Spirit, by his own almighty work of renewing the blinded heart. It is the sovereign prerogative of Christ’s Spirit to convince men’s consciences of the truth of Christ’s gospel; and Christ’s human witnesses must learn to ground their hopes of success not on clever presentation of the truth by man, but on the powerful demonstration of the truth by the Spirit.”

J.I. Packer, Knowing God, 71

Packer’s words about God’s sovereignty in salvation actually compel me to share the gospel every time I read them for at least two reasons.

First, God’s sovereignty eases the pressure I feel to “convert” people. I find great comfort in remembering and pondering “the sovereign prerogative of Christ’s Spirit” to save. I share and God saves.

Second, God’s sovereignty gives me great confidence. I am so thankful a person’s salvation is NOT dependent on my cleverness or ability to prove truth of the gospel. Again, I share and God saves.