I am constantly amazed, but people still want to know what to do with The Shack. Certain Christians hate it, saying there is nothing of redeeming value in it. Others think it is a wonderful opening for people to get to know God in a more personal way, especially those who have gone through terrible things.

So, who should we agree with? Is it meant to be so cut and dry? As usual, I think both sides need to listen a bit more to those with whom they disagree. The Shack is not the worst thing in the world, nor is it the best. There are good and bad things in it. The question is if we should spend much time on it.

I think we should spend some time on it. I think it can not only help us work through the close relationship believers have with God, but also work through major points of theology that everyone is discussing because of the book. Why pass up an opportunity like that?

I do have a different way to approach it, though. I hope you enjoy it and maybe even learn a bit.

I have an idea. I want to take a look at The Shack by reading along with two men. The first is a young man named Tim who has recently become a Christian, but he has also just experienced a terrible tragedy. The second, James, is the older mature Christian who is leading Tim through his own “great sadness.” These two men are writing back and forth as they think about The Shack book and I think it would be helpful for us to “read along.” Here is taste of the first letter we have.

Dear Tim,

I know you have been struggling lately with all that has happened these last few months. It breaks my heart not to be there for you. You know how dearly I love you and I would be on the next plane if I could, but God has not worked that out for us just yet. In the mean time, I guess letters will have to do.

The last time we talked, you mentioned you were looking for something else to read in addition to scripture. Can I make a suggestion? How about we read something together and discuss it? If that interests you, I even have a suggestion of a book. Have you heard about The Shack? I know, the Christian community at large has been up in arms about that one, and some of what has been said is very true. You are probably wondering why I would even suggest it then. Let me say a few things about why.

1. While there are some problematic things in it, the book can be a good exercise in discernment. Even though you have only been a Christian for a short time, you still need to learn to see through error and embrace truth. What better way than to read something that contains both and discuss it?

2. With God’s providence in your life over the last month and a half, I think the story might be helpful if we strip it down a bit. There is always something beneficial we can learn from unbelievers and believers alike, no matter where in that spectrum you think Wm. Paul Young might fall. (By the way, is he any relation to you? Just thought of that! Probably not since Young is such a common last name.)

3. This book deals with God’s character and His love. No matter if we agree with it or disagree, we still get the opportunity to think about and discuss our great God. What better thing could we contemplate?

4. Last and not least is the fact that millions either are going to or already have read it. It is good for us to be familiar with something about God that is so popular.

Let me know if this interests you. I would be glad to arrange for a copy of the book to be sent to you.

Lily sends her love. If there is anything at all we can do, please let us know. We are limited in our abilities right now, but God can accomplish amazing things. We hope to see you soon, but until then we will continue to lean on the love of Jesus and trust His timing.

Your brother,

James

Tags: book discussion, controversy, Discernment, discipleship, letters, The Shack