The Shack (Windblown Media, 2007) relates a story of extreme loss in the context of Christianity. Mackenzie Allen Philips is a man whose life is broken when his daughter is kidnapped and possibly killed by a brutal serial killer.
In the years following her disappearance, Mack falls into a period of The Great Sadness. On a snowy day, Mack finds a letter seemingly from God directing him to return to the same shack where his daughter was likely killed. Though torn by what to do, Mack cautiously returns to the scene of the crime. The unbelievable discovery will challenge and change him in more ways than one.
Religious Ideas Explored
Perhaps even more than presenting a gripping tale of suspense, Young chips away at key stumbling blocks often held about Christianity. The main theme of the book addresses where an omnipotent God is during tragedy and loss. Young reveals that God is, above all, loving and compassionate. Further, He does not want humanity to be a set of puppets on strings whom He controls. He bestowed humanity with free will that He will not violate. His glory comes when His children willingly come to Him and desire to submit to a lifestyle pleasing to God.
Young does more than offer an answer to the often troubling question of why a good God would allow pain and suffering. He goes on to tackle such big theological ideas such as the very nature of God, free will vs. God's will, the Trinity, submission, and the dire need for a personal relationship with God. It is very likely that readers, both Christian and non-Christian, will walk away from this book with a deeper understanding of key aspects of the Christian life.
More than Christian Fiction
Though billed as "Christian Fiction," The Shack is an intellectual novel that is well-suited to a much broader audience. As the story of a victimized family unfolds, they slowly progress toward acceptance of that tragedy. Young also explains that although the nature of how God designed humans with free will prevents God from intervening in hardship, God can use tragedy for good if the person permits it. The actions of the characters in the story may facilitate healing for readers with similar burdens.
Those who cannot personally relate to the plot but who struggle to understand God as Christians know Him, may also find Young's book enlightening. Young knocks down the common thought that God is a being who manipulates what happens to people. He illustrates with clarity that God is not a god who administers joy and pain haphazardly according to His own delight. Rather, life is shown to be the result of the choices that people make, not a punishment or reward from a controlling God.
Finally, Christians firm in their faith may be challenged at some of the realizations provided in the book. Have they been guilty of pigeon-holing God? Have they arrogantly stood in judgment of God? Have they truly grasped the power of the Holy Spirit? Have the erred in assuming God's Will rather than seeking it? This book may have Christians in tears and on their knees as their own spirituality and relationship with God is transformed and strengthened.
Criticisms of Young's Novel on an Encounter With God
As is typical of fiction that touches on tenets of the Christian faith, The Shack has been subjected to some criticism. There are those who are displeased with the characterization of the Trinity - God, Christ Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Of particular concern to some is the thought that Young fails to address God's Sovereignty over humanity. Others are appalled that Young omits that unrepented sin will be punished. The Bible tells us Grace must walk hand in hand with Biblical Truth, the call to behave as is pleasing to God, and some believe that Young does not adequately address that fact.
Refuting the Challenges
Certainly, readers should grasp that The Shack is a work of Christian fiction. It is the result of one man's imagination who has attempted to reveal his personal beliefs about God through a modern story. No book is a good substitute for the Word of God. However, what can happen is that Young's modern and relatable story will break down the walls that prevents people from exploring the Scriptures or from accepting many of the components fundamental to Christianity.
The Shack may inspire readers to explore the faith, to question the reservations and misconceptions that they had about what it means to be a Christian, and to seek out or improve their personal relationship with God. When held in that context, The Shack can be a comfort during tragedy and a catalyst for strengthened faith.
