J I Packer

J.I. Packer, born in England in 1926 and later becoming a Canadian citizen, was a prominent evangelical theologian and writer. He is widely recognized for his significant contributions to theological literature, particularly his best-selling book 'Knowing God,' first published in 1973. Packer was deeply rooted in the low-church Anglican and Calvinist traditions, advocating for a conservative evangelical stance on biblical inerrancy, notably as a signer of the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy.

His career included extensive teaching, serving as a professor at Regent College in Vancouver from 1996 until his retirement in 2016 due to declining eyesight. Packer also played a role in significant ecumenical dialogues, such as 'Evangelicals and Catholics Together,' and was involved in the development of the English Standard Version (ESV) Bible. Despite his conservative theological positions, he also engaged with broader Christian movements and discussions throughout his long and prolific career. He passed away in 2020.

James Innell Packer was born in Gloucestershire, England, in 1926. His childhood was marked by a significant head injury at age seven, which limited his participation in sports and fostered a love for reading and writing. He received a typewriter at age eleven, an object he treasured throughout his life. Packer attended The Crypt School, focusing on classical studies, and was confirmed in the Anglican Church at fourteen. He later earned a bachelor's degree from Oxford University, where he experienced a pivotal commitment to Christian service and was introduced to the writings of the Puritans. During his Oxford years, he also heard lectures by C.S. Lewis, whose work became a notable influence.

After university, Packer taught classics and pursued theological studies at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford, earning advanced degrees. He was ordained in the Church of England and associated with the evangelical movement. His early ministry involved pastoral roles and teaching at various institutions, including Tyndale Hall in Bristol. During this period, he published his first book, 'Fundamentalism and the Word of God,' a defense of biblical authority. He was instrumental in founding Latimer House, an evangelical research center in Oxford with John Stott. Packer's influential book 'Knowing God' emerged from articles he wrote for the Evangelical Quarterly.

Packer moved to Vancouver in 1979 to teach at Regent College, where he held professorships until his retirement. He was a prolific writer and speaker, contributing to publications like Christianity Today and serving as general editor for the English Standard Version (ESV) Bible. In his later years, Packer engaged in ecumenical efforts, including 'Evangelicals and Catholics Together,' a move that drew criticism from some within the evangelical community. He also took a stance on issues within the Anglican Church, leading to his relinquishing of his license from the Bishop of New Westminster. He received honors for his contributions to Christian theology and ministry.