Published by Mark Morris on 12 Aug 2008 at 02:00 pm
Questions about “The Shack,” Ask The Author Yourself – Noon Central
So what do you think about the NY TImes best seller, The Shack, by William P. Young?
The book is a craze among students. They are swarming it like ants to a church picnic.
However, many our concerned that the theology falls short.
Many are aghast at the author’s presentation of God in the form of a woman. The storyline makes it clear that God presents himself in such a form to the main character because Mack grew up under a father figure who was an abusive, alcoholic who beat his 13 year old son for two days straight. Ultimately Mack ran away from home after nearly being beaten to death by his father. With that background, how could Mack be receptive to a male representation of the Eternal Father?
If you can get over that issue, there are a few more hurdles.
Another issue discussed among Christians is the fact that the author presents an absolutely equal state of each person of the Trinity. The Trinity is therefore, completely non-hierarchical.
Still others are concerned that the teachings put forth in the book are contradictory on the sovereignty of God.
The list of concerns goes on and on, but others retort:
“This is fiction and it is harmless. Besides, it is markedly Christian and the book holds great potential to draw non-believers into a conversation that could lead to redemptive faith.”
Regardless of what we may think, students and non-students are reading this book like crazy.
If you and I are familiar with the most popular book among students, maybe you and I can speak into their pursuit of the One True God?! Besides, don’t stats show us that of all age groups, young people are the most receptive to the Gospel? Shouldn’t we be ready to speak to them about what they are reading rather than simply condemning the book and closing the door to any conversation?
So, my wife finished the book yesterday and immediately started reading it. I read 100 pages last night and plan on finishing it by Thursday. Why am I pushing to read it by Thursday?
Because I want to understand the craze and I want to be able to speak into the conversation students are having about God. But that’s just one reason.
The other reason I’m pushing to finish it by Thursday is because a friend of mine, Josh Davis has scheduled a 45 minute radio interview with the author at noon Central Time here in Memphis on Kwam 990. Josh’s show is called “The Josh Davis Show: Shining The Light of Truth on our Culture” and it airs just prior to The Dave Ramsey Show. For those not in Memphis you can Listen Live on line at 12pm Central Time on Thursday.
Better yet, if you have questions about the book, send them to Josh tomorrow. I’ve heard him tactfully ask some tough ones so write Josh and he’ll try to work them into the 45 minute interview.
So, if you have an opinion or concern or question about The Shack, don’t ask me, ask the author on Thursday.
Johnny Hunt on 14 Aug 2008 at 3:36 am #
On Aug 13, 2008, at 1:38 PM, Johnny Hunt, SBC President wrote:
I had a lot of the same concerns, hope you will write more, love you friend.
Mary C. J on 14 Aug 2008 at 3:37 am #
William Young is also speaking at a lunch at the AgriCenter on the 21st – that benefits the Palmer Home. Tickets can be purchased around town – think at Davis Kidd bookstore –
I have not read the book – someone told me it was a great book to read….
Thanks,
MCJ
Val Bennett on 14 Aug 2008 at 3:38 am #
God in the Old Testament had many names and He was what the people needed Him to be. I think ‘The Shack’ is a modern version – God is what the people need Him to be. Perhaps to some He needed to be a mom. Very thought provoking! I was bothered at first and then God spoke to me – God is who He needs to be in our lives in the season or issue we are experiencing because He is multi-faceted.
Val B
Gary Carter on 14 Aug 2008 at 3:41 am #
Hey Mark,
I actually had a chance to meet Paul Young personally. We had lunch and he answered every question I had. I do believe that he will certainly ease some anxiousness, as well as shed some light on significant theological issues.
I would encourage you to finish the book before your hear from Mr. Young. Many questions and concerns are answered in the closing chapters of his work. It is a shame that most critics never finish the book, or never really start.
It will be interesting to hear some of his story, why he wrote what he wrote, who he wrote it to, and his theological response.
Please let me know your feelings after you hear from him.
Gary Carter
Journey Ecclesia
Mike on 14 Aug 2008 at 3:46 am #
Thanks Mark,
Everyone’s recommending this book–I bought it to read next week on ‘the road.’ The sense that I have from people is twofold–one is insight into some part of the human condition left untouched (that’s what I sense in people–I haven’t read it yet so this isn’t my observation) and a sense of discomfort– like they couldn’t swallow all of it, but didn’t say what.
I’ve read a number of books lately that have ministered to me–that I probably would not have received ministry from 20 years ago because of something theological I disagreed with–either I am getting more liberal, more tolerant–or, I am able to enjoy God’s truth wherever it is found–I hope I’m not cooking my brain.
I have been moved by 2 of donald Miller’s books–“Blue Like Jazz” and “Searching for God Knows What.” “Blue” is one of my all time favorites–but I am uncomfortable with some of it.
I recently carried two books overseas for friendsl (I read them on the way). They have become 2 of my favorite books-at least for this year. I had to buy them for myself when I got back. “Leadership and Self-Deception” and “Anatomy of Peace” by the Arbinger Institute. I would love to get your take on them. They have profoundly impacted me–and I’m still processing the message.
“Leadership” is a great book for all people–wish it had a different title–it’s a way of looking at life that is refreshing.
When are we going to do coffee? Mike