William (Paul) Young's novel The Shack has been a publishing phenomenon. As you'll hear in our interview with Paul (click 'Listen Again' above if you missed it), a little story written for his kids has now gone on to sell 4 million copies with next to no advertising. The story revolves around Mack, whose youngest daughter Missy is abducted and feared murdered. As her search continues Mack receives a mysterious note from 'Papa' asing to meet him at 'the shack'. Mack takes up the offer and meets God--Father, Son and Holy Spirit, or, rather, 'Papa' (an African American woman), 'Jesus' (a Middle Eastern carpenter) and 'Sarayu' (a misty, colourful Asian girl).
The Shack has been hailed as life-changing for many people--changing the way see God and the Christian faith. Others, however, believe the book contains heretical teaching on the nature of God and salvation. Some of these core concerns were put to Paul Young in the interview.
The links below are gathered to help you explore the issues raised in the book a little further. Is the book heretical? Or simply a good story? Read both sides of the debate then give us your thoughts. Have you read the book? What did you make of it? Got something to share after hearing the interview? Want to share what your personal understanding of God is? Blog away!
Articles Generally Positive about The Shack
- Cindy Crosby's review for Christianity Today magazine
- Derek Keefe's guide to reading The Shack (Christianity Today)
- Wayne Jacobsen's response to the criticisms (Wayne is Paul Young's colaborator in The Shack)
- The Shack website has many discussions taking place about its theology
Articles Generally Negative about The Shack
- Tim Challies' review (for those interested, this article is written from a Calvanist or Reformed theological perspective)
- Ben Witherington's review (written from an Arminian perspective)
- Michael Youssef's comments and sermon
- Glenn R. Kreider's review for Insight For Living
Ultimately, the clearest picture of God's nature is found in the Christian Scriptures, the Bible. For a list of God's attributes, with Scripture references for study and reflection, click here.
