I have copy and pasted this book review from Julie's blog sight. She lives in America and has a devotional blog sight. This book "The Shack" is selling very well in America at the moment and I am sure it will soon reach our shores if it hasn't already. So I asked Julie if I could let people know what she thought of the book so we had some info before we were faced with it.
The Shack
I bought and read The Shack a few days ago on the emotional recommendation of a friend who admitted that while he was not an avid reader this book moved him to tears.
The Shack is a book written by William Young that is flying off the store shelves. People are buying a copy , then coming back to buying several more to pass out to family or friends. The emotional reaction triggered by The Shack seems almost unprecedented and the book is enthusiastically endorsed by Christian bookstore staff as THE book to read !
But wait !!I don’t know if you have read the book yet or not… if not, it is only a matter of time before someone hands you a copy or encourages you to run out and buy your own.I am writing this post for those of you who have read the book and are wondering what to think about it.
We are called to be discerners of good and evil, of truth and error. We are called to test all things and to be on guard.“Prove (test , examine) all things.. hold fast that which is good !” (I Thess. 5:21)And we are warned that we need to be even more on guard as the end approaches when "The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers and they will turn their ears away from the truth and be turned aside to fables...." ( II Tim. 4:3,4)These are frightening words and should stir us up to be doubly careful and take to heart the admonition following in verse 5.."But you be watchful in all things"!!
Is this book what it is hailed to be ? A book on par with John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress -- or is there something dangerously deceptive lurking in its pages?Have you questioned what you read in light of scripture ?
To be honest - I am very troubled by the book…. not because there is nothing good in it …the best deception has the MOST truth in it…. but because the foundation on which the truth is laid is not the same as the foundation we find in the pages of our bibles.
Is God ever pictured to be like a large black woman in an apron swaying to funk music?No, of course not…and I know the defenders of the book will be quick to say that the author was employing his analogy to break people loose from a false preconceived idea of who God is ..Granted … but consider this …what if your daughter is a chain smoker and out of concern for her health you endeavour to free her from her smoking habit by introducing her to alcohol instead . Not an advisable treatment plan, is it?So also - to present a God so contrary to the God of our scripture is not setting anyone on a solid rock.
The Papa of the Shack is God stripped of His majesty, His glory, His Holiness. I personally am not attracted to the playful, at times silly god of The Shack, the god that would laughingly feed his child a dish of greens that would make him sick.The God I know is Holy and Righteous and One to whom I gladly bow my knee… but how I love Him, knowing that He is my Father and I know I can run to Him any time , sit at His feet with my head on His knee and listen to His amazing Words of truth and comfort.".... and Holy is His name!" (Luke 1:49)
The god of The Shack winks at sin and the consequences of sin, reassuring Mack that there is not one child of her’s that she will send to hell…but all will be brought into relationship with her in the end. And then she shows Mack that his abusive, cruel father who died in a drunken stupor after drinking his poisoned liquor - is indeed enjoying the delights of heaven.“Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor DRUNKARDS, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” (I Cor. 6:10)
The Shack also takes license to change the Words of scripture. When Mack accuses Papa of deserting Jesus at the cross, Papa reassures Mack that this was not so. She insists that at no point did Papa ever turn away from Jesus on the cross but was there with Him the whole time. Really? What does William Young know that Jesus did not?“My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?” is Jesus cry from the cross. (Matt.27:46)
Papa also teaches Mack that she does not require anything of him other than relationship. She has no intentions of turning any one into a Christian. Expectations and responsibilities are only part of a dead relationship …be it between you and God or in a marriage relationship.Consider , my friend! Think of your best relationship…be it marriage or friendship. Is it free of expectations or responsibilities? Does a wife not expect certain things of her husband? I know I do .. I expect my husband to be faithful to his marriage vows “for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health” , I expect him to care for me, I expect him to react in certain ways in certain circumstances .. I expect him to be true to how I know him to be., I expect him to be home for dinner. … And yes , he has responsibilities as well. It is his responsibility to make sure our vehicles are in good repair, his responsibility to fix whatever goes wrong in the house, his responsibility to take out the garbage.What Young seems to have overlooked is that expectations and responsibilities are not wrong in themselves… they can become bondage only when the LOVE dies in a relationship. Where love is strong, expectations and responsibilities are fulfilled with joy !“You are my friends, IF you do whatsoever I command you !” (John 15:14) "He that says, I know Him, and keeps not His commandments is a liar and the truth is not in Him." (I John 2:4)
In the writing of The Shack, William Young employs a couple of clever literary tactics.A foreword of a book is usually written by someone other than the author for the purpose of introducing the author and speaking for his credibility. Young writes his own foreword to introduce and give credibility to the main character of his story , going so far as to explain why he himself is part of the story. Because a foreword is expected to be factual, I know of several people who were convinced that this book was the real experience of a real person.Then in a clever plot twist at the end of the book the author divorces himself from being held accountable for any doctrinal positions he presented by revealing that the whole shack experience may have been nothing more than the imagined images in the mind of a man in a coma.
If this book was meant to be nothing more than a well written piece of fiction with a clever and entertaining plot… then why is it having such a deep spiritual impact on its readers?What is the power in and behind this book?Is it the power of the Holy Spirit?Or is it an example of the ‘winds of doctrine’ we are warned against? (Eph.4:14)
Does this book align itself with scripture or is it presenting another Jesus, another God?These are questions that must be asked.Truth is never threatened or offended when questioned."And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free !" (John 8:32)
70 comments:
I actually helped put this book together for publication and I am sorry that you've chosen to post comments from someone else about a book you've never read.
While I think the person you quote means well, she has distorted and misinterpreted a lot of what is in THE SHACK. People are free to read and question it, enjoy what helps them see God more clearly and toss out those things that don't.
But casting aspersions on an author she doesn't know simply because parts of this book challenged some of her religious preconceptions seems a bit unfair. Maybe she missed the point, rather than the author being from the pit.
This is an excellent look at a relational God, but anyone can take the analogy too far and see something in it the author or publisher never intended.
Let people read it for themselves and decide. It is connecting with people in a powerful way...
Wayne
Dear Wayne
I appreciate that you felt the need to defend a book that you have associations with and will ultimately profit from but I also have the right to print any review I wish of any book/movie etc.
I shared your response with Julie and her reply is below
Dear Wayne….
I understand that you would want to defend your friend, William Young, (author of The Shack) especially since you have endorsed each other’s books.
I am quick to defend my friends too… but I am even quicker to stand in defence of God when I see that He is ill spoken of or falsely represented.
You said,” People are free to read and question it, enjoy what helps them see God more clearly and toss out those things that don’t”
I did just that... I questioned and tossed out!! Did it offend you that I did it in a public forum? The author made his thoughts public …. Does that not give me the right to respond publicly? Or give Nicki the right to post my thoughts on her blog if she trusted my opinion?
I learned from your site ( http://www.lifestream.org/LS.Reading.html) that “The Shack” was rejected by religious publishers and ‘Windblown Media’ was ‘birthed’ for the purpose of getting the book out. I think that says something about the content of The Shack – publishers are usually willing to go a fair distance into controversial material … The Shack was obviously beyond their comfort zone.
You also said “This is an excellent look at a relational God, but anyone can take the analogy too far and see something in it the author or publisher never intended “ What did I see that was not intended? Where did I take the analogy too far? If the analogy doesn’t work except in the author’s mind… why did he use it?
And “my religious preconceptions”? It was not my own religious views that were challenged by the book but its very conflict with the scriptures themselves! Show me where in my post I represented the Word in an erroneous fashion.
You also said, “Maybe she missed the point!” What point did I miss? Or as you say “She has distorted and misinterpreted a lot of what is in The Shack” -- what did I distort and misinterpret?? You gave no examples, nor did you specifically refute anything I said… I was careful to represent as clearly as I could what I saw that offended me. I am not the only one to be offended … and I wrote my review to give those who have or will read the book and be disturbed by it some support – as I articulated in my post.
People are of course free to read the book and decide for themselves – but I think I have a responsibility to raise an alarm if I see there is need for one. If I come across a washed out section of highway around a curve... I’m not going to say “Oh well, I’ll let the next vehicles just find out for themselves..” No, I will put up flags or signs to warn oncoming traffic of danger ahead…so that they can proceed with caution.
I stand by my original concern with this book and I think the simple fact that ”it is connecting with people in a powerful way “ is not a good enough endorsement. So does the “The Secret” (Rhonda Byrne) connect with people in a powerful way.
Sincerely… julie
I have read this book and I tried really hard to like it, after all, my best friend felt "transformed" by reading it. But, for awhile I could not quite put my finger on why I felt so troubled deep down. The main thing that bothered me was that not one person of the Trinity quoted scripture. Not that they HAD to quote chapter and verse...but when they did speak, their vocabulary was not seasoned with the Word at all. Not even a hint. I was also bothered by the New Age leanings like the colorful aura's around people, and the fantasy feel of the story. Most of the "profound quotes" felt like the slipperyness of New Age Mumbo Jumbo. It was an interesting story/tale, but my greatest concern is that so many readers are taking it as "God-breathed Word". Watered down Christianity is fertile ground for such a tale as this.
Wayne replied "I actually helped put this book together for publication and I am sorry that you've chosen to post comments from someone else about a book you've never read."
Wayne, this is why, even without reading the entire book, we should be careful whenever we see false doctrine and teaching antithetical to the Scriptures! Since Eugene Petersen endorsed this book so highly, I'll use his loose interpretation first...
The Message Bible
2 John 8-9And be very careful around them so you don't lose out on what we've worked so diligently in together; I want you to get every reward you have coming to you. Anyone who gets so progressive in his thinking that he walks out on the teaching of Christ, walks out on God. But whoever stays with the teaching, stays faithful to both the Father and the Son.
2 John 10-11If anyone shows up who doesn't hold to this teaching, don't invite him in and give him the run of the place. That would just give him a platform to perpetuate his evil ways, making you his partner.
and in another place
6-10You've been raised on the Message of the faith and have followed sound teaching. Now pass on this counsel to the followers of Jesus there, and you'll be a good servant of Jesus. Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion.
Good News Bible
2Jn 1:9 Anyone who does not stay with the teaching of Christ, but goes beyond it, does not have God. Whoever does stay with the teaching has both the Father and the Son.
2Jn 1:10 So then, if some come to you who do not bring this teaching, do not welcome them in your homes; do not even say, "Peace be with you."
2Jn 1:11 For anyone who wishes them peace becomes their partner in the evil things they do.
Wayne said "While I think the person you quote means well, she has distorted and misinterpreted a lot of what is in THE SHACK. People are free to read and question it, enjoy what helps them see God more clearly and toss out those things that don't.
Good News Bible
1Co 5:6 Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?
1Co 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:
1Co 5:8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
and again in another place
Tit 1:9 He must hold firmly to the message which can be trusted and which agrees with the doctrine. In this way he will be able to encourage others with the true teaching and also to show the error of those who are opposed to it.
Tit 1:10 For there are many, especially the converts from Judaism, who rebel and deceive others with their nonsense.
Tit 1:11 It is necessary to stop their talk, because they are upsetting whole families by teaching what they should not, and all for the shameful purpose of making money.
1Ti 6:3 Whoever teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the true words of our Lord Jesus Christ and with the teaching of our religion
1Ti 6:4 is swollen with pride and knows nothing. He has an unhealthy desire to argue and quarrel about words, and this brings on jealousy, disputes, insults, evil suspicions,
1Ti 6:5 and constant arguments from people whose minds do not function and who no longer have the truth. They think that religion is a way to become rich.
Wayne saidBut casting aspersions on an author she doesn't know simply because parts of this book challenged some of her religious preconceptions seems a bit unfair. Maybe she missed the point, rather than the author being from the pit.
She never said the author was from the pit, but she did quote the Bible which says that if you don't abide in the doctrine of Christ you do not have God. William Young denies the power of Christ as God, in his own words he said
On May 24, 2007
"The second element is this: if Jesus drew occasionally upon his 'God' capabilities, then how could he qualify as my representative and substitute, let alone model a dependent human life - I can't do that? He would have ceased being a truly human sacrifice.
I am personally convinced that Jesus was born, lived, died, was raised and now reigns as a fully human being, and has not drawn upon his deity ever in that process."
This is the epitome of Romans 1 :16-25
Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Rom 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
Rom 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
Rom 1:19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
Rom 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
Rom 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
Rom 1:22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
Rom 1:23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
Rom 1:24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves:
Rom 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
Websters defines aspersions as
"a false or misleading charge meant to harm someone's reputation "
What were the "aspersions " you were referring to? The aspersions I saw in "The Shack" were against The Trinity of the Bible, and His Word. Preconceptions?
Websters defines that as"to form (as an opinion) prior to actual knowledge or experience"
By religious preconceptions, do you mean the doctrine of Christ as we have been taught from the Scripture? You put yourself in dangerous company when you make that accusation.
Rom 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
Rom 16:18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.
Watch and Pray, that you fall not into temptation. There are many false deceivers, anyone reading the "Shack Book" would be well off to read the book of Jude and study it, because it is what is happening in the church because of emergent false teachers and advocates.
Jud 1:11 Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.
Jud 1:12 These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;
Jud 1:13 Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.
Thank you for posting this site. I was sent a copy of the shack by a dear friend who has been mailing it off to people in bulk mail numbers. I was instructed to read it and then report what I felt. I'm afraid my friend would not like my report. I was told that even people who did not read many books read this and were "changed" by it. I, heartily dove into it immediately. As I labored through the first half, I could neither picture my spouse or son reading through so much background before getting to the "meat". When I did get to the "meat" I was troubled; both in mind and spirit; yet, thought there was something wrong with me. After all, this book had been flying off the shelves downtown. Thank you, Hutleys, for helping me know what felt so wrong about it all. As I read your review, I kept saying, yes, that bothered me too. I'm terrible about reading the ending of books before I finish the middle, and against all advice, I did this with the Shack, so I just thought that maybe I missed something as I skimmed through the "god" encounter in the shack. I did not have a spiritual encounter that I enjoyed as a result of the book. I resolved to go back and read it word for word, paragraph for paragraph, but something (The Holy Spirit, perhaps...hmmm) told me to look up reviews on the net outside of the official shack website. Now, there is no need to pick it up again or try to convince anyone else to do so. The cover is enticing...and wow, what a marketing ploy is the "Missy Project". All well and fine if this was a book I could really defend. If a book gives you a headache and an ache throughout your body, then take heed... If this book is truly annointed then I should have not have felt that way and it was my first indication that something was not right about it...which goes a long way to say that the Holy Spirit does truly minister to us even when we can't discern things with our minds, of which I'm ashamed to say now considering how obvious the New Age bent is. The Great Sadness is that I bought into the lie... Thank you for helping me see through it.
Thank you for continuing to be bold and not intimidated in proclaiming truth and calling out error where you see it. Stand strong in the full armor of God.
I wanted to refer to Nicki's comments that God would never give food to someone that would make them sick. I believe this is true however this is not what the book said. Elousia, Papa who represents the Father in the book warned him not to eat to much of these greens because they have the tendency to cause the runs. The emphasis is on eating to much of a good thing makes you sick but it will not harm you if done in moderation. Jesus when he was on earth made wine at a wedding feast after all that was had ran out.
And not only that but he made it taste better than what they already had which may have caused the guests to drink more than they should. This could have caused some who might not follow the biblical practice of moderation to get drunk or sick or possibly get the runs if it was really just grape juice which I highly doubt. This is one example of distortion in this book review that Wayne talks about. The only comment that I thought may have been accurate and a fair review was the comment on why was Mack's father in Heaven. I thought about that too? I am just so thankful that we don't have to be the judge of who is walking in Jesus's grace in relationship with him but stuggling with sin issues and who is just abusing Jesus's grace
Did we forget that "The BiBle" as well as "The Shack" were both written by mankind so who is to say who is right.
I just finished reading the book and concluded that there are a main few points that the author wants to leave the reader with. 1) God takes care of each one of us in all situations 2) we must forgive in order to be free 3) we are to stop judging because everyone will someday be dancing in the eschatological laser light show where full forgiveness and relationship is restored, and the most important thing 4) God in Jesus loved us soooooo much that he committed suicide for us so we could experience his love.
Roger
I think some here are getting caught in the legalistic. Clearly God calls us to question those who come in His name. However, I think the Shack wants us to look at God and His relational nature. Please know that this is what makes the God of The Bible different than gods of other religions. I also think The Shack is warning us that we (modern Christians) have a tendency to become Pharisaical. As we get hung up in the paper God of The Bible some can lose sight of the relational God described in the Shack.
This is what I believe God wants from us. He wants our ALL and we (American Christians) don't do a very good job of giving that to him. If The Shack causes you to read your Bible in a new light I don't think you should be critical. The author is not claiming The Shack to be the inherent word of God. He is not Joseph Smith.
I also think some of the reviews posted here have some factual misrepresentations here. For example, Papa never claims that no one goes to hell. He only claims a desire to reconcile with the murder in the book which, as God He would know if He accomplished in the future.
Grab your Bible and read it, but I hope The Shack lets you read it in a different light. It did for me.
I have been reading alot of different things about the shack.
Then I came here to read some review/info insight to pass time.
BUT
the fact that you say that he is in a coma
if that is the end of the book, thanks for ruining it for me fucker.
regardless if you like it or not giving the ending away is the most ignorant thing to do.
"Then in a clever plot twist at the end of the book the author divorces himself from being held accountable for any doctrinal positions he presented by revealing that the whole shack experience may have been nothing more than the imagined images in the mind of a man in a coma."
Thanks alot for ruining a decent read. You might be a good reviewer or whatever but as far as a smart person your not.
You dont post the end of a book in a review. Why read it then.
Fucking stupid.
You really pissed me off with this. Sorry but you did. You do NOT POST THE END OF A BOOK IN A REVIEW UNLESS YOU ANNOUNCE THE FACT THAT THERE IS SPOILERS COMING AHEAD SO THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE NOT FINISHED IT ARE NOT RUINED BY SEEING/READING THE ENDING.
Fuck.
Thank you fucker
Yours truly
a struggling christian
Idid not help write this book nor do I benefit from the sales in any way...and I agree with Wayne 100%. Scripture also tells us to Judge a tree by its fruit! oes this book lead people closer to Christ or does it deceive them into leading lives of sin and debauchery? If the main crux of the story is relationship with God, it doesn't take a genius to put two and two together to know that sin separates you from God and therefore this book is about as anti-sin as you can get. Come on people, lets use the intelligence that was gifted to us by Love Himself.
Thanks for this post. I'm hearing a lot about this book but haven't actually seen a copy of it. Why do people choose to read everything they can about religion when they have the Bible? That's where anyone should turn if they want to know about God.
Rita
I have read this book and would like to respond to a few of the original comments for the benefit of those who haven't read it and may be considering it or who have and are thinking about what they've read.
First of all, to some of the quotes which have been incompletely detailed:
Papa (read Abba) personifies Himself as a large, gregarious Black woman who is the embodiment of everything Mack (the main character) would never preconceive God to be. He also personifies Himself later as an older white man. Neither seems Holy, Majestic or Glorious because they are humans - and God is not human. He is totally 'other' as we would be well to remember (and says so to Mack). However, neither of the personifications should be likened unto a death-bringing addiction to alcohol.
Second: Papa does not 'wink' at sin or it's consequences. In fact, pages and pages are devoted to the darkness and separation that has resulted because man wanted to go it on his own and be independent of God (Ch. 8 and 9, see pg 120, 135-136). The fact that 1Cor 6:10 is chosen to proof text this point reveals perhaps the need for a visit with Sophia (Lady Wisdom), who helps Mack understand just to what depth he has placed himself as judge over mankind as well as God.
Do we stop sinning after we become "Christians"? Don't we still need to confess and ask forgiveness (even though it has already been given)? Mack's father is described as a Christian struggling with alcoholism. How can I presume he would not be in Heaven as a redeemed sinner (the way I humbly hope to be) unless I am judging his heart (only God can reserve this right). I would point to John 12:44-50 if you require a proof text (I should add the clear wording of Matt. 7:1-5 to be complete, but I have to say that proof texting has been used to justify self-righteousness and doesn't always point to God. See page 186 and 198).
God loves the whole world (John 3:16) and wants that none should perish, but everyone to come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9). Papa never says that all will be redeemed no matter what they believe. He simply reiterates that reconciliation is a two way street and that He has done His part (pg. 192). And in specific reference to Jesus, that "Everything's about him, you know." pg. 191. At the cross, Jesus died for the sins of all mankind and for the redemption of all things, "whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross." Col. 1:19-20
Regarding responsibility and expectation: Papa and Jesus explain to Mack that changing these nouns to verbs better illustrates what can be described as a godly relationship, i.e., one based upon the example of the Trinity. For example, we come to God alive with expectancy (hopeful waiting) and He gives us the ability to respond to whatever circumstances we encounter (including wives with long "honey-do" lists). This stands in opposition to expectations we have of others (including God) which if they go unfulfilled, lead to disappointment, anger, bitterness, resentment. Responsibilities are to be fulfilled as we exist in this world but not of it. A distorted sense of responsibility can lead to a performance based faith or worse, guilt and shame (the handprints of the enemy to be sure). I agree wholeheartedly that responsibilities are fulfilled with joy when love is what drives them and God is love. But absent a love relationship with Him, grace is absent and selfishness prevails.
Third: The comment that Papa made that implied God never left Jesus at the Cross is made in the context of explaining the Trinity: (John 14:10-11) Jesus, fully human and fully God. The turning away at the Cross has been a debated theological point. If Jesus was not also fully God as the sacrifice was made, would it have the same atoning power? (again Col. 1:19-20). This is unclear to me, but I know God knows the answer and I trust that alone. I just don't like to hear what sounded like sarcasm and arrogance in chastising another over the great Mystery that is Faith. I am deeply troubled by it....(Col. 4:6)
[As an aside to the 4th point made in summary by Roger: suicide defines a selfish act of desperation committed by a human being overcome by darkness. What Jesus did on the Cross was self-sacrificial and motivated by Love and Light]
Finally, the subtle implication that the author and those who helped publish this as a book are motivated by money to deceive is just inappropriate and uninformed. William Young clearly states on his website that he wrote this story for the benefit of his six children, never writing with the intention of publishing for wider audiences. I'm not sure if your statement that "a foreword is expected to be factual" is literary law, but I didn't read it as such (it was written by "Willie", a character in the story - no full name or credentials are given after his signature). Again, the cynicism and presumptiveness deeply trouble me....
I guess that's all I have to say. I know I have probably stirred your pot, but I felt compelled to contribute a little more depth and a little less judgment (though I'm asking forgiveness already).
Be blessed by His Love and full of His Grace,
Michele in Texas
People, I have to tell you... before I was saved I was down in the depths of darkness. I have smelled the breath of the dragon. I weap sore with thankfullness at how Jesus, Lord of Lords, pulled me out unto salvation. From the moment my sister uttered the words "The Sack" (which I had never heard before) my blood ran cold! I recognised that instant that old serpent! I wanted to contact her Pastor so he could warn the congregation about the book. I figured he would nip it in the bud and I wouldn't have seem like I was in judgement of my beloved sister whom I have never so much as quareled with. I found that her pastor (Sean of North Coast Calvery Chapel Aberdeen) was the one that gave it to her when she was seeking help with her marrage. I was shocked and said I didn't think it was of God. He drove straight to my sisters house and villified me. My sister and I have not been close since. There is an evil power behing this book. To ALL WHO HAVE HAD THEIR BLOOD RUN COLD WHEN MET BY THIS BOOK... be of good chear...the Holy Spirit is with you indeed. Forgive my spelling and Love in Christ!
This book is a theological disaster.
See my review -
donholmes.blogspot.com
Don Holmes
I heard about people reading this book 7 times. I could not wait to purchase it. Last night I read the first 80+ pages. I felt the "real" Holy Spirit stirring within me--sending a warning. I have always prayed for this warning to be ever present. I could not sleep--in fact I was scared. That's God--He is ever present. Nothing needs to be added to His Holy Word. Thank you Almighty God for your love and your justice.
Deb Reed
I just recently began to read this book after a friend of mine gave it to me with much excitement. She gave me a general overview and as soon as she said that that the guy meets God in a shack all of my red flags went up. Meet God face to face? The bible says that we could not survive that. He is too holy. She really wanted me to read it and give her my opinion. I started it but after reaching the point where the shack changes into a beautiful cabin and he is greeted by female god, I quit. I began to feel afraid. After many years dwelling in spiritual darkness and getting a little too chummy with the occult, I recognized that fear... the warning. Don't go there. I will not finish it, in fact it will not be in my home. Thank you Father, the only real Father, for your true Holy Spirit who guides us in the truth and warns us when danger is present!
I also was mislead by this book. We have friends that tragically lost 2 children in an accident. I began to the read the book, taken in by the familiarity of the loss. As I read on, red flags went up. Such as God making cooking in the kitchen and Jesus wiping up the mess. The whole Holy Spirit, Asian woman thing and God as a female African-American were warnings. But then, God (Elouisa?) says that Jesus did not do anything that we could not do - he was just closer to God. That began that whole New Age (Church of Oprah and The Secret mumbo-jumbo) Granted I don't know a lot of why's after our loss however, I still hold on to my faith. If it is just a song, repeating a verse all day or just praying, that makes a whole lot more sense than this book. I also would like to state that to know Jesus is to KNOW PEACE. - When I start to feel uneasy, I usually know that it is warning. I appreciate Mrs. Hutley's page as I googled the book for some answers. May God Bless you and your family and your strong faith! - Kirbiejo (Southern California)
I, too, came across your blog simply by doing a google search. A good friend of mine highly recommended the book to me, saying I needed to "buy it," not just borrow it from the library. All these comments remind me of all the books I see in the "Religious" section of a bookstore. Many of these books focus on financial success, and "being a better you." Why aren't there more books about looking at all the starving children, or standing up to big corporations that ultimately screw millions of people in another country. Why is the secular world responsible for exposing these types of sin? Aren't we Christians the ones truly responsible for the unfed and unclothed? I'm sorry for my lack of staying on topic. I'm now convinced this book should just stay on the shelf, unread.
Guys, chill. It's a book of fiction. If you didn't enjoy reading it..fine. Not everyone enjoys the same books. But just because I don't enjoy a book doesn't mean I go bashing it and saying it's basically from the devil. I personally read it and enjoyed it. It made me laugh and it made me cry. I loved the personalities given, but I also know that it is, in fact, a book. If you don't want to read it, then don't. If you don't like it, fine. But seriously. Let it go. Kay?
I am so SICK of hearing people say that because this book is fiction, then it is okay to spread false doctrine! Would Jesus say that? No. When the temple was being used for any purpose other than what God set forth for the temple to be glorifying God and, honoring his character and drawing sinners to him, then it is not OKAY!
Yes, I feel passionate about this!Why. There is the FICTIONAL books of Harry Potter that teach children witchcraft and rebellion to the Lord. There are the 3 Brian Mclaren Emergent books that he wrote and uses to spread his poison! In fact, I even just saw a book that was written as a children's book about 2 waves talking to each other and the mature one is teaching the young wave to Eastern style meditate and Buddhism! It is written to your children and mine to endoctrinate them into false religon, with a FALSE FICTION piece that has ONE PURPOSE beyond entertainment, and that is to TEACH YOU A WORLDVIEW!
Let's just cut to the chase here. Whether the book is non-fiction or fiction, everything that you put into your mind is about creating a worldview, expecially if it is about religous materials. I do not want to entertain the fact that the Shack is ok, simply because it is written in the fiction. The bible calls us to challenge everything that comes into our mind by saying that we are to take every thought captive to Christ. That statement is about watching what makes up your worldview about life and about God.
Next, I was HORRIFIED when my once solid Calvary Chapel of 10 years brought this book into our church and began supporting it and selling it and pushing for it and then taking 2 weeks on WEd to teach it. We tried to tell the church leadership about the dangers of this book, but we were called "negative Nellies" and they did want to entertain our concerns, which I thought was disgusting. No room for dialogue in the body of Christ, that is support to be at the same level of "importance", and only the Lord high above and the #1. After being treated like that and seeing that heresy was being taught from the pulpit, we as a family left!
This book was something I managed to stomach as I read it. I did find several good things that enlightened me to a concept or two and I marked that. But I was also very busy with a pen marking problem passages that were half truths or lies outright. I marked almost 3/4th of the book out or true objectivity and I was shocked that people are at such a low level of understanding the Word and the Character of the Holy Lord and a terrrible lack of discernment are what I found wrapped up in this book, The Shack. I was offended by this book because the god in it looked and acted NOTHING like the scripture based GOD ALMIGHTY.
I do not hate the writer, but I am saddened that he wrote that theological mess to his children to confuse them on the most important issues of life. I do not hate the writer, I think he needs to be schooled better on these issues of the bible before he pens anything thing to teach or encourage others. I hate this book!It is terrible!
I love how people in one breath are saying to relaz because the book is a work of fiction, so no big deal. But then in the next breathe are saying that this book is life changing and moving people. So, does it have the power to teach and change the minds of people on these important issues of not? Spot the contradiction yet? Even Wayne says "it is connecting with people in a powerful way..." That is the whole point. It is connecting with people with false twisted teachings that ovewr emphasize some areas to help sell the book, while white washing the gospel. When I compare the biblical Father and Son to the ones in this book, the false Papa and Son fall so very short. What a terrible book. Shame on Christians that are endorising this book!
I have just recently read The Shack, and I must say that although I did not agree with everything it says, i did find it to be well-written.
First off, I am currently a Theology student, albeit still only partially through my Bachelors and from my somewhat limited understanding of the greater picture of theology, I did not find anything major in error.
In regards to 'Papa' - it states clearly that God is neither female or male - a theologically sound point - and in scripture we actually have "feminine" metaphors for God such as a eagle gathering her young, etc... So this isn't as anti-biblical as it appears.
The Trinity - a theology which has been complicated to explain for years upon years - again, it was explained well. Did it tend to err to much in the direction of 3 distinct persons? Perhaps. But J R Moltmann holds a "social trinity" view which is well accepted in theological circles and it would appear that was the basis for this. And the actual word "Trinity" is not in the bible nor is much of how we describe it.
Overall, there was some phenominal messages throughout about Christianity being about RELATIONSHIP with God, not performance (which we too often fall into) and it does tackle on a good level, but simple enough for most to understand, some of the greater complexities.
Keeping in mind that this is a work of fiction, i believe it has the power to be a very helpful book for many. After all, Pilgrim's Progress is also fiction, as is Narnia, as is many other books that have helped people gain a better revelation of who God is - and I dare say anyone who says they have the full understanding of who God is would be on shaky ground.
I've had a lot of friends say that they have read The Shack and loved it. The way its portrayed gives understanding to some people and opens a new perspective on thinking of how a relationship with God can be had.
I love Christ and loved THE SHACK. I am very disappointed that you posted almost all negative comments concerning this book. The encouragement of this book is to have a vital, real relationship with a living God who is so very complex that we cannot even fathom. His word is alive and true....how does this book pull you away from our holy Lord? I will not endorse your blog when you slam a fictional book that some people believe is annoited by the Holy Spirit. Read the author's testimony before you allow your legalists (which God abhors!) to cast their arrogant views.
Isaiah 55:6-13
Anyone who reads this book and winds up being offended is probably just not comfortable in their own faith. It IS just a work of fiction afterall, and no one has suggested otherwise. People who comdemn the book and warn others of the "evil within" have COMPLETELY missed the entire point!!!
The original reviewer DID misrepresent parts of the book. Just to give one example, the eating of the greens. Mack liked the food so much, he would have eaten it to excess. Papa told him to be careful not to do that, and later, as Sarayu, gave him a medicinal plant to counteract any intestinal issues he may have had. Because, he didn't listen to Papa, and he did eat too much. The reviewer made it sound like Papa (God) intentionally fed Mack food to make him sick. That's just wrong. Rather, Papa let Mack make his own choices, guided him about it, and then was there for him in the end to help him when his excess and bad choice would have hurt him. Reviewer, if you can't even get this simple analogy straight, what ground do you have to stand on to debate the whole of scripture?
It's such a trivial part of the book, but in misrepresenting it, it shows how the original reviewer is the one who is deceiving readers!!
Look, at the end of the day, this is a book that is a work of fiction. Fiction. Not meant to be read as some New Age view of the world, but rather a work of fiction told in a compelling way to make a point. And the point is that we can each have a personal relationship with God, and that God loves us in a way that we can just barely begin to understand. It's a positive message. It encourages people to work on their relationship with God, to stop being judgemental of other people, to realize that there are stories greater than our own, and to open our hearts with and through love. How and why can that be distorted into a dangerous message?
The people who are so horrified by this book, saying that it spreads poison, and is a danger, THOSE are the people I'M AFRAID of!!
Seriously? These are the same people who think that Harry Potter turns people against God because of the use of magic. These people are ultimately -- no matter what they say - so insecure in their own convictions.
I'm just flabbergasted by their idiotic need to bash something. THAT doesn't sound very Christian to me, and yet these people are the first to jump in and condemn -- the book, the author, anyone who finds something positive in it.
To anyone who reads these posts, whether it is this book, or any other, read it for yourself and make up your own mind!!! Be most wary of people who are threatened by opening their minds and expanding their horizons. Be wary of people that will take a positive message and find fault with it. Those are the truly scary people!
At the end of the day, if this book -- a work of FICTION -- is making people want to work on their relationship with God, or giving people hope or peace, or the will to become a better person, we should rejoice for those who are affected. Don't turn something positive into something ugly.
It all goes back to the beginning where Nicki posted 'Truth is never threatened or offended when questioned." And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free !" (John 8:32)'.
Twisting things to make it an offense to question what you don't agree with is always the best way to make yourself feel better and believe that you are right.
I'm never afraid of anyone who doesn't agree with me, but I also tell people what I believe to be the truth and help them see their error. Janet - you contradict your own argument. I don't think you could actually read the shack and know whether it is teaching truth or not. You throw out a few catch words here and there but that is just so-called Christian jargon for the Biblical illiterate.
Some people say the book is well written. I thought it was like a first draft of my masters papers - very poorly written and needing a lot of editing. The writing didn't impress me above being very amateur.
Young is not the real author. Sure, he invented the story but two other guys sent months rewriting it to promote their own theological view.
The $300 promotion budget is a lie except for those who want to use that as evidence the spirit is in it - what spirit I ask? Anyone who believes that only spent $300 had better pull their head out of the toilet before someone flushes it.
This book will continue to be a hit until someone finds a more creative way to rewrite the Bible and convince the Biblical illiterates that it is truth.
Let me set the record straight.
First, this book IS a work of fiction.
Second, for many people it is life-changing.
The first statement can be easily verified by comparing it with Scripture; nothing inside holds up. The second is harder to prove, but will be verified on "that day" when Judgment comes and the deceived are judged for rejecting the gospel of Jesus Christ and following men who taught things that were pleasing to them instead.
I pray that everyone who thinks this book is "life-changing" will wake up to the deception and hear the REAL voice of the shepherd who watches over His sheep.
For those of you who see this book for what it really is and are concerned about it, keep defending the faith. But, I fear, this time of deception is growing darker by the day...
Peace & Blessings,
Simple Mann
I loved this book. I do not believe that it is a new Bible, written to be studied and followed as Holy Doctrine. It is a great story, fiction. It does make you think about GOD in a few different ways. My opinion would be that GOD is more complex than anything that I could ever understand. Proverbs 3:5-6 says - Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. This book like the sermons of all of today's preachers are given to stir thought and study. I had rather give a non-believing friend a copy of this book and have them ponder the possibility of a black female as part of the trinity than them refuse to believe that a loving GOD could exist at all. It is even possible that this books purpose is to encourage conversation between believers and non-believers rather than explain the limits we place on a limitless GOD. The book also explains why Papa was a female in the beginning. Mac would have trouble with a father figure because of his past. When the time was right Papa did take the male form to lead Mac. Once again, I enjoyed this book and I hope friends will have questions that we can answer together.
I can't believe that you have left the April 25th Anonymous post in your comments and on your site. It was VERY offensive to me while reading the comments about the book.
Liz
I don't have the text, but I would like to paraphrase a statement made at the end of the forward:
"by the way, Mack says if you don't like it, that's okay. It wasn't meant for you...or was it?"
I respond to Waynes comment, that this book is "connecting with people in a powerful way"...I'm pretty sure because its just the touchy-feely stuff people want to hear.
I remember the book 'Embraced by the light' had the same effect on some people a few years ago, pure new age garbage.
I pray christians will have conversations about this book that cause them to go back to their Bibles and know the Truth for themselves.
To Roger who said, "Janet - you contradict your own argument. I don't think you could actually read the shack and know whether it is teaching truth or not. You throw out a few catch words here and there but that is just so-called Christian jargon for the Biblical illiterate."
I never indicated that I thought The Shack was teaching truth -- or not. I clearly stated that I viewed it as a work of FICTION -- a work of fiction that has had a positive affect on a number of lives. For that you indicate that I am Biblically illiterate? Roger, sounds like you are the one throwing out a few catch words here and there! It's rather condescending and egotistical on your part to "tell people what I believe to be the truth and help them see their error." So, what YOU believe is truth, and what other people believe is ERROR? Hmm.
I'm not afraid of anyone who doesn't agree with me, either, and neither should anyone out there be afraid of such a thing. What is scary is when someone takes something that has been positive for some people, and mangles it into something ugly.
When it comes to The Shack, the bottom line is whether it was a positive read for someone, or not. It's not meant to be anyone's a new bible, or the ultimate truth. It's a story with a good underlying message.
Look, to anyone out there who has read the book, or is thinking about reading it, if you get something positive out of it, good for you. If you don't, move on.
I just finished The Shack and found it to be a huge help with a problem I've dealt with since I was six. I'm now 21.
My parents divorced when I was six and I have never been able to forgive either of them. I've had a huge burden on my heart that has kept me from growing a new mature relationship with them. And like most do, I blamed God.
This book helped me realize I can talk to God as a friend. That I can just say exactly how I feel to Him. The story also made me realize I can forgive my parents completely and move on. I could relate to the way Mackenzie reacts to his situation. Not understanding why.
I guess my point is that although this book is not written like the bible, there are great messages within The Shack. Messages and lessons that could change someone's life.
I loved this book and found no biblical errors. The reason people don't like it is probably because it is offensive to their religious spirits, amoung other things.
And like my mom always said, if you have nothing good to say, don't say anything.
If you can't find anything good or even great about this book, its a sad, sad day.
Steve
I wonder if God the Father desires a relationship with me like I desire a relationship with my son. Does he love me as much as I love my son? Does he feel that breathlessness that I feel when I am away from my son for an extended period of time? Is it righteous indignation that he feels when I sin or does his righteousness allow him feelings at all?
Recently my young twelve year old son made some choices that were extremely damaging to himself and definitely far short of the standards of our home. I wasn’t angry. I wasn’t hurt. I wasn’t offended. I felt physically ill and my heart was broken for my son. My base instinctual reaction was to hold my son and let him know that my love for him had not changed one bit. I wanted him to know that having our sin exposed gives us the opportunity to run toward God, not away from him. It was an opportunity to teach him about the sin-shame-separation cycle that deeply affected my life into my 30’s.
I wonder if God the Father loves me with the same unreasoned intensity that I love my son.
I wonder if the Father actually wants to know me.
Danny -- Father God already knows you; He is just waiting for you to 'see' that.
I had no idea this book was really meant to be fiction. Even though it is clearly labeled as such, the foreward and subsequent story were so believeable.... I now feel a bit deceived.
Tracy
This is to Danny:
Jesus told us this
"Would any of you give your hungry child a stone, if the child asked for some bread? Would you give your child a snake if the child asked for a fish? As bad as you are, you still know how to give good gifts to your children. But your heavenly Father is even more ready to give good things to people who ask."
You taught your son a life-saving truth, now it is you yourself who must start to believe that God is a far better Father who loves you...
As for the book I'd like to quote 1 Thessalonians 5
"Don't turn away God's Spirit or ignore prophecies. Put everything to the test. Accept what is good and don't have anything to do with evil"
This book to me was like a viewfinder on a camera that turned my focus to the relational aspect of God and his love and plan for his creation. It resonated the deep longings in my heart for redemption, grace, being alive and living out the true meaning of life: "You will know that you are one with me, and I am one with you" (Jesus in John 14:20) In other words: relationship!
I can look beyond forms the writer chose, it was just a way to get to the centre of the message. Why the Father in the Shack chose to let Mack see him as a woman should be clear if you read that Mack had a destructive relationship with his own father. God can be quite personal in taking care of his children as you can read in the bible (psalm 131 or Isaiah 66:13)
Mack needed to work out that father-issue first before he could start to trust God as a heavenly Father.
To all people who are warning people not to read this book i have a question. Does God use fear, panic, anxiety or blood running cold to tell us something is wrong? In the book there is a small passage on Mack and God telling him not to worry or be afraid of a poisonous herb as long as His Spirit is with him (pg 132-133) That goes as well with literature. Stay close to God when reading, use his Word to seek what is truth and what not and listen closely to his Spirit. No need for fear.
It pains me to see that a fictional book causes people to break off relationships, and cause schisms in churches. There should not be an over-valuation on a fictional book even if it is life-changing for some. The bible should always be the guideline to the solid ground from what we base our faith and the Word-who-became-flesh is that base. Jesus, the jewish carpenter who showed us his Father by dying to save us.
In His Grace connected to all of you brothers and sisters.
Martin
I am presently reading this book, only because I was intrigued that someone could claim it as great as Pilgrims Progress!Puleezze! It is soo boring and poorly written! I found myself making fun of the book laughing at the insanity of it, ok I am only on page 109 but am I honestly expected to take this seriously,I wonder how hot will those who blaspheme burn?
I figure it's worth finishing so that I may understand the enemy more, if this book is ever considered for a movie trust me they will cast Oprah as God. Maybe Paul Young had seen one too many Oprah shows when he got his inspiration for the book.
While reading The Shack, I kept thinking it would be great if there was a study/discussion guide to go with it. I finally decided that God was urging me to write one. I would be glad to send you a copy that you are welcome to copy and share with others. Email me at prayerdigm.bookstudy@yahoo.com
Trish Pickard
You guys said that" And then she shows Mack that his abusive, cruel father who died in a drunken stupor after drinking his poisoned liquor - is indeed enjoying the delights of heaven.“Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor DRUNKARDS, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” (I Cor. 6:10)" this verse means that if you are one of these things and you dont love God then you will go to hell... but we ALL sin and fall short of the glory of God. If we accept Jesus and love Him as our savior, then no matter what we have done we WILL inherit the kingdom of God. Who are you to judge who gets in and who doesnt?
Hilarious is the word I use for Wayne's posting above who had a part in putting the shack book together. I saw an interview of the author in a canadian coffee shop. Excuse me but that poor shlub doesn't have basic common sense let alone the wisdom of God in him. I read the book and nevermind that it's poorly written, it's also nonesense. God presents himself as OUR FATHER and Christ said "this is how you shall pray OUR FATHER who art in heaven..."
Wayne get over yourself.
Ps its connecting with people "in a powerful way" becuase it reveals that God is actually OPRAH!
Pilgrims Progress is a real christian novel.
I have read all the posts. I recieved the book as a Christmas gift- I nderstand the need for people to have their heart touched and to know God is real and close as our kitchen sinks but the book really caused more hurt and pain. I have come forom great abuse and have been whipped, I had a aocholic father and suffered great abuse, which I have spent years with God helping and healing, this just opend old wounds and hurts, It also leaves a sent of fear in the book -if you dont see it ..I will not point it to you..it is not a refreshing book. our society needs to know God is with us through all and he certianally is as Iam proof of that. I hated this book and it caused me great grief. I have been stalked....It says well bad things happen but God loves us anyway and cant do anything about it...but is there to heal us and love our wounds away... well he is but he dosent want these things to happen, I wanted to vomit as he said he was with this child through he being abducted and she was brave.It is a sad book....Glad people are thinking about God....I do hate this gbook and I ripped it up and threw it in the trash...it may want to mirror God but it is foggy and upens wounds just to say yes she was brave but still dead....I sufferd much more than I can write here and It is still a fact but I have been healed and this is a can of worms to it..I did not have to feel this and I felt no refreshing from God which is far better than this book....
I have struggled with so much painin my life. blaiming god for so much of what ha happened to me. Also blaming my parents for not protecting me and myself. While this book is no meant to be taken word for word it is enlightening. It lifted me up. Gave me a new way to look at god. Not from the hypocritical christians that are all around me that have caused me not to believe but to question my faith. This book tryly did encouarage me and helped me understand that God loved me through all of my pain, and will still... and that he wants me to let go of the guilt and blame and live in his love. this book never said that people wont be punished, but dont you think we punish ourselves? This book is great! I would highly reccomend it to anyone who isnt closed minded enough to beleive every word the pastor of a church has told them and nothing more... also the old testiment is great but when Jesus died on the cross it made a way for us to live in his love and forgiveness... nothing else is needed... no amount of good works or how many sundays you went to church will help... in the end its whats in your heart... remember that when judging this book...
After meeting Young personally, I must say that I truly felt inspired to hear a Christian preach the love of God in such a relational way as it was intended to be. The way he portrayed the Trinity is so beautiful and shows this wonderful relationship. Refer to Baxter Krueger.
It can be hard for some people to accept that God is love and not condemning and by looking at some of the comments that have been published against the Shack, you can see this quite visibly. It is sad to see people so anti it.
God Bless
I just finished this book, and I thought it was wonderful. Perhaps it is not 100% factual, but I feel like some of the people commenting have put God in a little box. I believe in a God that can do anything. What if this really happened? God has done some miraculous things in the Bible, and he still does these things today. I think that if the book can bring you closer to God, than it has done its job.
God Bless!
Pauljammer
I have serious concerns with someone speaking out so strongly against the book when they haven't read it. I'd recommend that skeptics read the book. You don't have to like it; you don't have to agree with it. But you do have to read it so you can make a truly informed decision. Many of the criticisms of the book have been taken out of context.
In the big picture, I think this is simply an act of creativity. Think of all our images of Jesus and other scenes from the Bible. They were painted by people who weren't there and were inspired expressions.
This book is simply a creative and artistic look at our relationship with God. This is not meant to replace scripture, nor does the author every indicate an agenda that he wants to supplement the Bible in any way.
Our understanding of the Trinity remains uncertain, and it differs across the Protestant faiths. In fact, the word "trinity" isn't even in the Bible.
I will say, though, that the people who are so extremely critical of the book are welcome to be critical, but they really don't show a spirit of love or reconciliation towards those who don't agree with them, especially "Julie" in the first post.
Julie, you may have a harsh reponse to Wayne, but are you praying for him? Does your heart bleed for the lost who may be misguided by the book? Are you offering an outstretched hand of love and life from the Gospel to those who are lost and hurting?
Rather than spending our energies to tear down and lash out at those who may disagree, why not try to reach out to them and pray for them to have wisdom and understanding. Being rude, condescending and combative, never helped to save anyone's souls.
I have read this book "The Shack" after having my own tragedy come my way it was recommended to me.
Well... I could not handle the book. The question of god in such circumstance, and how one does feel after something horrible has happened, does not just change cause you learn to forgive, or you learn to love. The whole 3 gods, formed, and teaching him lessons, and ways to accept god was far from the point of dealing with what Mack had been dealing with personally. People realte to god in many ways yes, however, the way it was written, was confusing, and just a preaching of what many hear, and don't get answers to in the relation of god. I guess I would say it is so far from god. That it is far from what people actually deal with in terms of tragedy. I wonder if the author has ever dealt with such tragedy that would ever question if god existed. The Shack, honestly made me believe more that he does'nt when I never thought that before. Although it is fictional, it is too far out, to even understand when dealing with emotions such as Mack. A terrible dissapointment, from one Canadian, to another Canadian. The only good thing, is I donated the book. I hope someone can find something good in it from that donation.
I must admit I picked up a copy of this book based on people telling me "everyone who reads this is moved significantly". I read literature with an open mind and allow myself to be influenced by what I READ, not what others tell me to get out of it. That being said - I did NOT enjoy the book. It had the same stench as The DaVinci Code. It is just another work of fiction that has made its fortune by masquerading as a non-fictional, autobiographical account of a very personal experience with God. An event that is purely fiction. One reading this book with zero background information might very well be tricked by the foreword. I am glad I read it, but will go back to living by my mantra of not reading POP CULTURE or anything else "everyone" is reading.
I am not telling anyone not to read it. Go ahead and read it. But remember it is a work of fiction. It is NOT based on a true story, or influenced by a true story, or even remotely true in any way, shape or form. Much to the author's chagrin, I believe.
When reading and interpreting the Bible the scriptures are quite clear that the Holy Spirit should be our guide. The ability, however, for the Spirit to instruct us also requires us to educate ourselves so that the Spirit can organize our thoughts.
Ever wonder why nearly all descriptions of God in the Bible were related to a King? Because the individuals who wrote it had no other way to communicate His greatness that would have made any sense to people at that time. If God had chosen to reveal Himself in this day and age, the writers would have had to use images that we revere. My point being that as the world changes so does the means by which people can be shown the truth. I'm quite certain that at the time that Pilgrim's progress was written there would have been some of the same criticisms leveled at Bunyan as Young gets.
I recently finished reading the Shack, found it very interesting... I knew that like anything that dares to suggest we as christians should for a moment take a look at a picture again; take a look again at what we feel we know so well, would immediatley give licence not to the`gate keepers` but to the `gate shouters`- which is by far is what takes place across the internet under the banner of exposing heresy.
And guess what it didn`t take me long to find those shouting heresy! The trouble is if you`re going to shout heresy- and indoing so set yourself up as the gate keeper, then you better know what your talkin about yourself.
Because it`s no use quoting scipture out of context and using it anachronastically yourself - it gives no credibility at all.
For example if this `gate keeper`is using I Cor 6:10 to support a critque regarding hell, by implying that `kingdom of God`is the phrase used for heaven - then it`s really quite misleading, when any first year bible student should know that`s the phrases ``kingdom of God`` and the ``kingdom of heaven`` have nothing to do with `heaven.`And then it immediately happens again. I am lead to believe that the author of The Shack is way off base as I read
``The Shack also takes license to change the Words of scripture. When Mack accuses Papa of deserting Jesus at the cross, Papa reassures Mack that this was not so. She insists that at no point did Papa ever turn away from Jesus on the cross but was there with Him the whole time. Really? What does William Young know that Jesus did not?“My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?” is Jesus cry from the cross. (Matt.27:46) end of quote...
At this point I`m thinking `now you got him`until you understand that scholars and theologians across the world maintain that Jesus was infact quoting the beggining of Palm 22... when I read Palsm 22 it puts a whole nother slant on what Jesus is saying and doing.... All I`m saying if you are going to set yourself up as a `gatekeeper`and that`s exactly, yet again, what`s happening here - make sure you are being a `gatekeeper`and not just another `gateshouter` Becuase if you do have anything useful to say it`s thrown out the window with your own inaccuracies.
Isnt it great that this little book has got us all talking? The reason that it is flying off the shelves is that it does have a spiritual value. Most sheep are not in the pen. They want to be but are put off by the bickering and zealousness of religious application. Jesus said love one another. If this book enables the sheep to come closer to the pen then that is a good transitional arrangement. It serves no good to distance recruits by applying such rigour.
I must say, may we not be presumptuous to assume that feeling chills down your spine or cold feet towards this book = Holy Spirit. There are those who will read this book and find the Holy Spirit guiding in ways that the Lord decides, maybe some warning, maybe others calling forth. I will agree that I find several theological problems in this book, conclusions that, when logically laid out, don't stand as well as they might seem. It's tempting to listen to a book that finally (and interestingly very quickly) answers some of the greatest questions that have plagued humanity throughout so much of history: Why does God let evil happen? Why is there evil? Why doesn't everyone believe, and even further, if we believe Christianity is truth, then why is it among the minority in the world percentages? But as before, many of these "answers" do not play out as well as they seem.
Many of them also lack some of their Scriptural/theological counterparts. Where is the concept of sin? I do not mean our actions, but the concept of sin as a "power" as Paul talks about it. Papa in the book says she has "done her part, been reconciled to the world, and has opened the way." But what was stopping God from being reconciled beforehand? If love "opened the way," what was opened, or what was blocking the way?
Papa (God) says love is not forced, but then why does Papa say that she knows it will take 36 attempts before a certain person will "hear me clearly and AGREE with me." Is that not, in some sense, forcing? What about those who will never hear?
I think if God chooses, our Lord can work through the book if He so desires. I think it's important for our church leaders and others theologically versed to stand up and address theological/Scriptural problems with The Shack. (It's the Da Vinci Code all over again, aye aye aye .) I think we can trust though that God is bigger, and His Word will accomplish what is was meant to do.
I live in Nigeria and have been born again and standing right since 1983 (26 years now). I just finished reading 'The Shack' and just thot to look out for reviews on the net. I am amazed at the negative comments I have read here.
Yes, its not the best written book and I was bored reading through the early pages but that changes as I read on. Yes, the book challenges many of the commonly held perceptions that our God is up there and we are down here, unable to reach nor touch him. Christ clearly showed us that God was our father, God is with us, and indeed, in us. Before Jesus left (in John 17:21) he prayed that we may be one with him and God. Its the ultimate relationship. That is the message of The Shack. Its ok if some people don't take this message from the book. But many people have been blessed in this way.
And so what if God appears as a black woman? How does this change our faith. Its only a pictoral representation; perhaps, the author deliberately put that in to challenge the minds of those who have some misconceptions about black women, who knows?
Hey guys! I've read the book. I've been blessed immensely. I love God, Jesus, The holy Spirit even more. I have found a new path in my relationships, I have learnt (once again) that God is love (1 cor 13).
Please do not condemn the book because it challenges some long held opinions that may not be biblical. Let the Bible, and God speak to your heart and if there is a message from him in The Shack, then take the message and become a better christain.
Ade
While I am not a "theological genius" like some of the posters here, I do have an inkling as to who "I AM" is. My God has taught me about himself through so many varied methods most especially the bible. But certainly not limited to the bible. He even saw fit to reach deep inside my current sad state through this book.
Again he has moved me, and brought about a change in me and a deepening in relationship with Him.
I almost always get a kick out of people who get so desperate to prove something to themselves (and others) that they lose sight of who God is. If they have any real understanding of who He is then it stands to reason that they would not be so desperate to criticise.
You types actually remind me of something Christ Himself was persecuted by. The Pharisees.
If the shoe fits!....
I just finished reading the Shack. I too was encouraged to read it by a new friend of mine at church. The comments on the cover of the book had me hopeful that this book would indeed change my life, that maybe some Truth of God would bleed through the pages and affect me as never before. I could not have been more wrong. It is obvious that William Young has had to endure great suffering in his life, and for that I am very sympathetic. However I must also say that suffering often prompts us to see God in various extremes, usually as a very bad God who is at the root cause of our suffering, or as a loving, kind God who would never allow such a thing and who lays the blame at the feet of others. The Biblical Truth lies somewhere in the middle of these two extremes. William Young has written a terrible, confusing book that does great diservice to the Awesome God of the Bible. The Shack should be avoided and spoken out against everywhere. It is not theologilicaly or doctrinaly correct. It is false and ultimately sad. William has tired to ease his pain by trying to explain what is very difficult to explain in the here and now.
I have read and heard "The Shack" Book and I can say, that this book is awesome. Yes, it is not religious correct, but a great encouragement for downtrodden believers to go on with this wonderful God.
Welcome Home!
Andreas
Breaking up all the comments the first one i cam across was:Is God ever pictured to be like a large black woman in an apron swaying to funk music?No, of course not…and I know the defenders of the book will be quick to say that the author was employing his analogy to break people loose from a false preconceived idea of who God is ..Granted .
Well maybe that was what the Author was thinking but what about this thinking : 1 Corinthians 9:22
I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.
I really believe that this is God being everything to everyone whether some one needs a mother,friend or even a daughter, God can be & fill that persons shoes.
Let me get this straight...Many say that although this book is not entirely defensible from scripture, it brought them closer to God? Such people also say that this book portrays God in a new way. It troubles me to see people cling to a fictional story, instead of the non-fictional, purposeful, everlasting, infallible, Word of God. I see such exertion of emotion on this board such as: "OMG!!! This book really changed my view of God!" How can someone read the Bible and then need another source to understanding God? I wish I could stumble upon a message board where people are saying: "OMG!!! I read Romans and John this week, and it gave me the only valid view of God!"
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And I have faced it.
Although I have not read The Shack, I have seen a dvd wherein the author gives his story to an unsuspecting church in Santa Cruz (read: shameless self-promotion), while claiming a disinterest in selling books... Simply from the content of his presentation, I surmised that he was not a person to whom I would turn for spiritual (much less theological) counselling. I work at a Christian school, and our principal showed us the dvd in order to promote the book; what for, idk. Anyone with more than a rudimentary understanding of the Word will immediately recognize the heresy contained in the book (having not read it, I know this by the author's own mouth). To the Christians out there, whom the enemy is attempting to turn from the faith of their fathers, I say: welcome to the "apostasy", or falling away, of II Thess. 2:3. Does anyone else find it amusing/disturbing that the publisher that was "birthed" to distribute this book is called "Windblown Media"? Go read Ephesians 4:14.
Hutleys,
In 2008 I read your Post on The Shack. It was shortly after I read the book, and I was appalled.
I have written a lot about this heresy since then, and you probably know that the author of The Shack actually wrote a paper in 2004 advocating "Christian universalism," i.e., even unbelievers go to heaven. Everyone goes, whether they know the Savior or not.
Since 2008, The Shack had brought much ill into the Body of Christ.
I am very grateful for your early, passionate, and very Biblical response to this book.
John
http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2011/05/04/the-shack-author-on-music-boat-gig-with-chris-tomlin-newsboys-mercy-me/
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