Comments on: Don’t hate me ’cause I don’t like The Shack http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/ feed the curiosity Thu, 08 Dec 2011 23:50:24 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3 By: Dysfunctional Parrot http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-41359 Dysfunctional Parrot Fri, 16 Sep 2011 05:43:51 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-41359 The confusing thing is that the Shack is being marketed as Christian, when it really is not much more than Young working out some personal issues on paper. Aside from that, theologically it's a just a flat out train wreck. After reading it myself, I just couldn't figure out what all the hype was about because the book is not that good at all. BUT...the vocal minority ( whoever they are? ) seem determined to keep the controversy alive. I guess even bad press is good! The confusing thing is that the Shack is being marketed as Christian, when it really is not much more than Young working out some personal issues on paper. Aside from that, theologically it’s a just a flat out train wreck.

After reading it myself, I just couldn’t figure out what all the hype was about because the book is not that good at all. BUT…the vocal minority ( whoever they are? ) seem determined to keep the controversy alive. I guess even bad press is good!
Dysfunctional Parrot´s last [type] ..HIP HOP ABS ( aka. Nerds Can’t Dance )

]]> By: Arby http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39504 Arby Mon, 02 Aug 2010 02:44:42 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39504 I was encouraged to read The Shack by a pastor friend who uses the book in his recovery ministry. He has a very large and very successful recovery ministry on the west coast. One of the issues that he regularly deals with is people who are so damaged emotionally from abuse in their lives that they cannot begin to read the Bible and learn the Christian faith through the traditional course of action that the average Christian would take. He also deals with people who have been damaged by Christians who use the Bible as a bludgeon to beat their victims rather than demonstrate love. I think Cynthia was dancing around that last issue in her comment. She does not yet understand that Christians are not perfect people and never have been. Christians are sinners, and sinners sin. She should expect to see Christian sins. She'd meet a right old sinner if she met me. That does not negate Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. I think the appeal of The Shack for him is that the book can show people that God’s love is accessible to everyone, in words that are easier to understand than the prose of the Bible. The fundamental problem that I have with The Shack is that it attempts to put a face and a personality to God. If God wanted us to know what He looks like He would have given us a picture of Him in the Bible. There are no words that an author can string together that can adequately capture the glory of God. At the least, trying is folly. At the worst it is leading people spiritually astray. A second issue of equal importance is that God gave us a book to read to get to know Him and understand His will for us. It is the Bible. I remember when reading the Bible was a complete mystery to me. I remember all too well feeling lost, confused and alone. I found help when I stopped trying to accomplish it on my own, when I reached out for help from other people, when I prayed for guidance, and when I found people more learned than myself to instruct me. There is value in the struggle to read and learn the Bible, to pray and come closer to God, to learn that Christ paid for our sins 2,000 years before we were born. There is no need for The Shack. There is a better way. P.S. I never did read it. I was encouraged to read The Shack by a pastor friend who uses the book in his recovery ministry. He has a very large and very successful recovery ministry on the west coast. One of the issues that he regularly deals with is people who are so damaged emotionally from abuse in their lives that they cannot begin to read the Bible and learn the Christian faith through the traditional course of action that the average Christian would take. He also deals with people who have been damaged by Christians who use the Bible as a bludgeon to beat their victims rather than demonstrate love. I think Cynthia was dancing around that last issue in her comment. She does not yet understand that Christians are not perfect people and never have been. Christians are sinners, and sinners sin. She should expect to see Christian sins. She’d meet a right old sinner if she met me. That does not negate Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

I think the appeal of The Shack for him is that the book can show people that God’s love is accessible to everyone, in words that are easier to understand than the prose of the Bible. The fundamental problem that I have with The Shack is that it attempts to put a face and a personality to God. If God wanted us to know what He looks like He would have given us a picture of Him in the Bible. There are no words that an author can string together that can adequately capture the glory of God. At the least, trying is folly. At the worst it is leading people spiritually astray. A second issue of equal importance is that God gave us a book to read to get to know Him and understand His will for us. It is the Bible. I remember when reading the Bible was a complete mystery to me. I remember all too well feeling lost, confused and alone. I found help when I stopped trying to accomplish it on my own, when I reached out for help from other people, when I prayed for guidance, and when I found people more learned than myself to instruct me. There is value in the struggle to read and learn the Bible, to pray and come closer to God, to learn that Christ paid for our sins 2,000 years before we were born. There is no need for The Shack. There is a better way.

P.S. I never did read it.

]]> By: Tag http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39496 Tag Sun, 01 Aug 2010 07:36:29 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39496 I was just surfing the web in search of articles of inspiration and accidently stumbled upon this discussion. I thoroughly enjoyed the Shack and was fortunate enough to have read it before the web was littered with opinionated reviews. I believe the author did a superb job not only in telling his story but also by capturing his audience with emotion and leading them through a barrage of unexpected events. A theme of un-predictability became clearly apparent after several dozen pages which I believe was an intention of the author. The portrayal of God as a black full figured middle age woman was a new interpretation for me.However, I could see my Grandfather rolling over in his grave and unfortunately wrongly so..... I found it to be an opportunity of grounding while reminding me of my fleshly tendencies to make ignorant assumptions, judgements, and conclusions about spirituality and life in general. The Lords Spirit is with me, always... yet, how often is my spirit open or available to walk in union???? I was just surfing the web in search of articles of inspiration and accidently stumbled upon this discussion. I thoroughly enjoyed the Shack and was fortunate enough to have read it before the web was littered with opinionated reviews. I believe the author did a superb job not only in telling his story but also by capturing his audience with emotion and leading them through a barrage of unexpected events. A theme of un-predictability became clearly apparent after several dozen pages which I believe was an intention of the author. The portrayal of God as a black full figured middle age woman was a new interpretation for me.However, I could see my Grandfather rolling over in his grave and unfortunately wrongly so….. I found it to be an opportunity of grounding while reminding me of my fleshly tendencies to make ignorant assumptions, judgements, and conclusions about spirituality and life in general.

The Lords Spirit is with me, always… yet, how often is my spirit open or available to walk in union????

]]> By: Beth McKamy http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39493 Beth McKamy Sun, 01 Aug 2010 01:59:25 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39493 I don't even know where to start! First, let me say, I loved the book. I believe that the reason Paul Young used a young girl, and a horrible picture of her kidnapping, and brutal murder, was to use the most horrible thing he could think of to show us what true forgiveness can mean. Let's not forget that God sees all sin the same, whether it's murder, gossip, or over eating. We don't, so it's easier for us, as humans, to forgive a lie from a friend, then a brutal murder of our children. I, personally, like what the author did with the Trinity. Who are we to say how God can appear to each of us. God uses different things, in different people to get a response or commitment. Why would anyone be offended by Jesus saying He wasn't a Christian? A Christian is a follower of Christ. Jesus isn't a follower of Christ. He is Christ...God in flesh, come to Earth to show us how we can live with God in us, everyday. Are we truly Christians, and do our churches resemble the 1st church that is depicted in Acts? Do we live our lives following in Jesus steps, asking ourselves what would Jesus do, in all situations? I think not. If we did, there would be no wars, no hunger, no murder. Most individuals put God in a box, only to bring Him out on Sundays and Wednesdays. Do we truly live our lives daily for God, giving Him all that we are? Do we understand the what the Trinity means, or what it meant for Jesus to come to Earth in the flesh, having all the same temptations and struggles that we have. Do we understand the Cross, and the true meaning of God's grace and love for us? For me The Shack was not about Theology, it was about having an intimate relationship with God, and about what that takes, including living a life with God holding my hand, and knowing the voice of God, and truly loving everyone, even those that harm us. If I truly love God, then I can't help but love others. Then forgiveness isn't even a struggle. In fact, if I understand the Cross and grace, then nothing is a struggle, because the victory over everything in my life has already been won at Calvary, therefore I don't even have to fight the battle. When you stop fighting battles, then our lives become an opportunity to serve God and others, because when you serve others, you serve God. That's serving without rules, restrictions, or limits. Someone asked me where do we draw the line on service. I said, we should serve as far as God leads us to serve. It might be money, it might be time, it might be a shoulder, it might be an email, it might be a phone call, or it might be a smile or nod to someone on the streets. We plant the seed and leave the results to God. People are trying to analyze Paul Young's motives for this book. Who are we to say whether it came from his soul or it came from God to him? We don't know that. For those who didn't like the book for the reasons you have said, that's fine. Everyone looks at things differently. Jim Baker went to prison for things he did in his ministry, but I can promise you God used Jim to bring children to His Kingdom. Right or wrong, God can use everything for His glory. Before I read anything, I ask God to speak to me in whatever way He wants, so I can usually learn and grow from any book. It's like going to a church and sitting and listening to the preacher. I've been in services that people have said that the Pastor was not speaking from God, that he didn't get his message from God. My response to them was that what the Pastor preaches is between him and God. What we get out of the messages is between us and God. If I have an open heart, to letting God work in me, doesn't matter if the pastor got his message from God or not, God will still speak to me. Did I like everything in The Shack? No, but God still spoke to me, and as a result, my walk and relationship with my Savior is awesome. I learned a lot from the book. Not theology, not whether I believe God is a big, black woman, but that I can come to God, just as I am, a sinner in need of a Savior, and He will love me unconditionally. Never again will I be a hostage to the past, or be uncertain about the future. This is a temporary home, and I shouldn't get used to it, so much that I would rather stay here than to go home, when God calls me!It's ok to have a home here, but not if activities, and materialistic things get in the way of our service to God. Like I said, if you didn't like the book, I respect your opinion. It's not for everyone, but it is for some, so let's respect, not only them, but the Author, who also has a walk with God. I don’t even know where to start! First, let me say, I loved the book. I believe that the reason Paul Young used a young girl, and a horrible picture of her kidnapping, and brutal murder, was to use the most horrible thing he could think of to show us what true forgiveness can mean. Let’s not forget that God sees all sin the same, whether it’s murder, gossip, or over eating. We don’t, so it’s easier for us, as humans, to forgive a lie from a friend, then a brutal murder of our children.

I, personally, like what the author did with the Trinity. Who are we to say how God can appear to each of us. God uses different things, in different people to get a response or commitment. Why would anyone be offended by Jesus saying He wasn’t a Christian? A Christian is a follower of Christ. Jesus isn’t a follower of Christ. He is Christ…God in flesh, come to Earth to show us how we can live with God in us, everyday. Are we truly Christians, and do our churches resemble the 1st church that is depicted in Acts? Do we live our lives following in Jesus steps, asking ourselves what would Jesus do, in all situations? I think not. If we did, there would be no wars, no hunger, no murder. Most individuals put God in a box, only to bring Him out on Sundays and Wednesdays. Do we truly live our lives daily for God, giving Him all that we are? Do we understand the what the Trinity means, or what it meant for Jesus to come to Earth in the flesh, having all the same temptations and struggles that we have. Do we understand the Cross, and the true meaning of God’s grace and love for us?

For me The Shack was not about Theology, it was about having an intimate relationship with God, and about what that takes, including living a life with God holding my hand, and knowing the voice of God, and truly loving everyone, even those that harm us. If I truly love God, then I can’t help but love others. Then forgiveness isn’t even a struggle. In fact, if I understand the Cross and grace, then nothing is a struggle, because the victory over everything in my life has already been won at Calvary, therefore I don’t even have to fight the battle. When you stop fighting battles, then our lives become an opportunity to serve God and others, because when you serve others, you serve God. That’s serving without rules, restrictions, or limits. Someone asked me where do we draw the line on service. I said, we should serve as far as God leads us to serve. It might be money, it might be time, it might be a shoulder, it might be an email, it might be a phone call, or it might be a smile or nod to someone on the streets. We plant the seed and leave the results to God.

People are trying to analyze Paul Young’s motives for this book. Who are we to say whether it came from his soul or it came from God to him? We don’t know that. For those who didn’t like the book for the reasons you have said, that’s fine. Everyone looks at things differently. Jim Baker went to prison for things he did in his ministry, but I can promise you God used Jim to bring children to His Kingdom. Right or wrong, God can use everything for His glory. Before I read anything, I ask God to speak to me in whatever way He wants, so I can usually learn and grow from any book. It’s like going to a church and sitting and listening to the preacher. I’ve been in services that people have said that the Pastor was not speaking from God, that he didn’t get his message from God. My response to them was that what the Pastor preaches is between him and God. What we get out of the messages is between us and God. If I have an open heart, to letting God work in me, doesn’t matter if the pastor got his message from God or not, God will still speak to me.

Did I like everything in The Shack? No, but God still spoke to me, and as a result, my walk and relationship with my Savior is awesome. I learned a lot from the book. Not theology, not whether I believe God is a big, black woman, but that I can come to God, just as I am, a sinner in need of a Savior, and He will love me unconditionally. Never again will I be a hostage to the past, or be uncertain about the future. This is a temporary home, and I shouldn’t get used to it, so much that I would rather stay here than to go home, when God calls me!It’s ok to have a home here, but not if activities, and materialistic things get in the way of our service to God.

Like I said, if you didn’t like the book, I respect your opinion. It’s not for everyone, but it is for some, so let’s respect, not only them, but the Author, who also has a walk with God.

]]> By: Joy Dvorak http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39492 Joy Dvorak Sun, 01 Aug 2010 01:24:48 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39492 I did not enjoy the book. I felt it was too simplistic and immature. The author's style seemed focused on "explaining" God to those who are lost in their faith or seeking help. My description in my book club's review what that I felt spiritually invaded. The only book I've EVER thrown in the trash, so as to not offend another reader. I did not enjoy the book. I felt it was too simplistic and immature. The author’s style seemed focused on “explaining” God to those who are lost in their faith or seeking help. My description in my book club’s review what that I felt spiritually invaded. The only book I’ve EVER thrown in the trash, so as to not offend another reader.
Joy Dvorak´s last [type] ..Method Monday

]]> By: Tarasview http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39489 Tarasview Sun, 01 Aug 2010 01:01:57 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39489 I really liked it :) I really liked it :)

]]> By: Monica Brand http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39487 Monica Brand Sun, 01 Aug 2010 00:45:51 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39487 <i>Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law- a man's enemies will be the members of his own household. </i> That's Jesus in Matt. 10: 34-36. That doesn't sound much like unity to me. Cynthia, I appreciate your taking the time to comment. There is much in what you say that I disagree with and I don't want to get into an argument with you. Let me encourage you to read the Bible for yourself to see what Jesus really had to say about evil, Satan, our enemies and why he came to earth. Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law- a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.

That’s Jesus in Matt. 10: 34-36. That doesn’t sound much like unity to me.

Cynthia, I appreciate your taking the time to comment. There is much in what you say that I disagree with and I don’t want to get into an argument with you. Let me encourage you to read the Bible for yourself to see what Jesus really had to say about evil, Satan, our enemies and why he came to earth.

]]> By: Cynthia http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39486 Cynthia Sun, 01 Aug 2010 00:05:11 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39486 Wow, I never dreamed so many ppl didn't like The Shack. I personally thought it was a great way to bridge the old Christian thought patterns to a more mature and enlightened forgiving way of looking at things. I loved that Jesus said he wasn't Christian. Remember, he also said he was for everyone. I found that as a great relief, in my mind. He was not meant to divide the world, he was meant to unite it in my opinion. Or at least show the world the capacity of humanity, imho. In the remake of The Phoenix with Dennis Quaid, an asian type character was asked about his religion. He said he finds religion divides and spirituality unites, or something like that. That's how I see most religions, "if you're not like us, you are an outsider,and you'll be soooorrry.. ." mentality. What happened to brotherly love, for everyone? I accept Jesus into my heart 100% but I'm definitely not a Christian. They seem to want to talk more about Satan and things like that, etc.. .I love them as HUman beings, as I love all of life, but I feel so sorry for them, most of them anyway. They seem so stuck in a rut and dogma. They don't seem to live straight off spirit. In the NOW. In the Being presence. They seem to often like to talk about how everyone should be this or that.. . They seem to often like to think of heaven as a far away reward place, when heaven is right here in the NOW, just like Jahweh said- I AM. I'm not saying it's not there too, but it is now, NOW. Jesus said we have the kingdom within. We have the kingdom within and we can realize right here, right now. If anyone would know he would. I've yet to see most Christians grasp this concept. They seem to use the word Evil a lot. Why talk about something you don't like? Why keep on harping about it, I ask you? Like the three monkeys= hear no blank, see no blank, speak no blank. (evil). That is one of the wisest sayings there is practically but do most Christians practice it or even grasp the concept? Jesus was all about love, and love thy enemies, etc.. I don't get that much of that from Christians unless you are one of them and do exactly as they think you should to the letter, or you're a charity case or something. They're on the lookout for evil, I guess.. .Oh, and a chunk of them will hate you bcuz you like The Shack, thus being very "un-Jesus like" but very often Christian like, unfortunately. Not all Christians are like that, at all even, but just the group as a whole. These are my humble opinions, to each his own. I thought The Shack's time has come, and that's why it was such a huge best seller. PPl want the holy spirit, but the churches and religions are not necessarily providing it. Being in the NOW, and Being in the presence of the I AM beingness, can make everything clear, very clear. The taste of heaven is in the NOW.. . Thanks for reading and enjoy whatever you're into.. .with love... .c :) Wow, I never dreamed so many ppl didn’t like The Shack. I personally thought it was a great way to bridge the old Christian thought patterns to a more mature and enlightened forgiving way of looking at things. I loved that Jesus said he wasn’t Christian.
Remember, he also said he was for everyone. I found that as a great relief, in my mind. He was not meant to divide the world, he was meant to unite it in my opinion. Or at least show the world the capacity of humanity, imho.

In the remake of The Phoenix with Dennis Quaid, an asian type character was asked about his religion. He said he finds religion divides and spirituality unites, or something like that. That’s how I see most religions, “if you’re not like us, you are an outsider,and you’ll be soooorrry.. .” mentality. What happened to brotherly love, for everyone?

I accept Jesus into my heart 100% but I’m definitely not a Christian. They seem to want to talk more about Satan and things like that, etc.. .I love them as HUman beings, as I love all of life, but I feel so sorry for them, most of them anyway. They seem so stuck in a rut and dogma. They don’t seem to live straight off spirit. In the NOW. In the Being presence. They seem to often like to talk about how everyone should be this or that.. . They seem to often like to think of heaven as a far away reward place, when heaven is right here in the NOW, just like Jahweh said- I AM.

I’m not saying it’s not there too, but it is now, NOW. Jesus said we have the kingdom within. We have the kingdom within and we can realize right here, right now. If anyone would know he would. I’ve yet to see most Christians grasp this concept. They seem to use the word Evil a lot. Why talk about something you don’t like? Why keep on harping about it, I ask you? Like the three monkeys= hear no blank, see no blank, speak no blank. (evil). That is one of the wisest sayings there is practically but do most Christians practice it or even grasp the concept?

Jesus was all about love, and love thy enemies, etc.. I don’t get that much of that from Christians unless you are one of them and do exactly as they think you should to the letter, or you’re a charity case or something. They’re on the lookout for evil, I guess.. .Oh, and a chunk of them will hate you bcuz you like The Shack, thus being very “un-Jesus like” but very often Christian like, unfortunately. Not all Christians are like that, at all even, but just the group as a whole. These are my humble opinions, to each his own.

I thought The Shack’s time has come, and that’s why it was such a huge best seller. PPl want the holy spirit, but the churches and religions are not necessarily providing it. Being in the NOW, and Being in the presence of the I AM beingness, can make everything clear, very clear. The taste of heaven is in the NOW.. . Thanks for reading and enjoy whatever you’re into.. .with love… .c :)

]]> By: Monica Brand http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39197 Monica Brand Fri, 11 Jun 2010 20:47:22 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39197 And that's my problem with The Shack. Folks using it as a theology book, not as a work of fiction for entertainment. Thanks for commenting, Laura. And that’s my problem with The Shack. Folks using it as a theology book, not as a work of fiction for entertainment. Thanks for commenting, Laura.

]]> By: Laura (Tampa BookWorm) http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-39195 Laura (Tampa BookWorm) Fri, 11 Jun 2010 20:11:32 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-39195 I read this a while back after putting it off for as long as I could. I actually ended up enjoying it, but I am able to separate my beliefs and look at it as 'entertainment'. .-= Laura (Tampa BookWorm)´s last blog ..<a href="http://tampabookworm.blogspot.com/2010/06/hop.html" rel="nofollow">Hop!</a> =-. I read this a while back after putting it off for as long as I could. I actually ended up enjoying it, but I am able to separate my beliefs and look at it as ‘entertainment’.
.-= Laura (Tampa BookWorm)´s last blog ..Hop! =-.

]]> By: Suzanne http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-38929 Suzanne Thu, 25 Mar 2010 01:17:19 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-38929 Didn’t like this at all. The back cover shares about how if you are going through a great sadness (like the main character) then maybe this book will help you too. But wait, Mack meets the actual, physical Jesus, GOd and the Holy Spirit. He talks directly to them all. They are real. He has proof that they exist. So how is this a book about faith? HE meets them in the flesh. He no longer has a need for faith. I don’t get it. Also the part about “I am especially fond of you” Would God say that? Sounds so superficial – like a used car salesman or a fraternity brother on a first date with a girl. I don’t get this book at all. I thought it was truly awful. And the dad reunion? He runs to his Daddy? But he was severely abused... But because Daddy has colors shooting out of him it means he loves his son? What? I was laughing at that part. OH about Jesus and his nose being big? And they laughed at his comment that he was a Jew? That was clearly an anti-semetic remark. I thought this book really was awful. Didn’t like this at all. The back cover shares about how if you are going through a great sadness (like the main character) then maybe this book will help you too. But wait, Mack meets the actual, physical Jesus, GOd and the Holy Spirit. He talks directly to them all. They are real. He has proof that they exist. So how is this a book about faith? HE meets them in the flesh. He no longer has a need for faith. I don’t get it. Also the part about “I am especially fond of you” Would God say that? Sounds so superficial – like a used car salesman or a fraternity brother on a first date with a girl. I don’t get this book at all. I thought it was truly awful. And the dad reunion? He runs to his Daddy? But he was severely abused… But because Daddy has colors shooting out of him it means he loves his son? What? I was laughing at that part. OH about Jesus and his nose being big? And they laughed at his comment that he was a Jew? That was clearly an anti-semetic remark. I thought this book really was awful.

]]> By: Suzanne http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-38923 Suzanne Sun, 14 Mar 2010 17:25:00 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-38923 I felt that once we met the Holy Trinity in their physical incarnations it ended being a book about faith. Faith is belief in something you can't see and Mack could see them all. I didn't care for this book. I felt that once we met the Holy Trinity in their physical incarnations it ended being a book about faith. Faith is belief in something you can’t see and Mack could see them all. I didn’t care for this book.

]]> By: forcryeye http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-38827 forcryeye Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:59:14 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-38827 I was so happy to find a place where there were others that did not have the profound connection to this book, as so many of my friends had. There is an interesting review of this on Amazon where an English teacher reminds us that putting a physical charachter to God is actually heresy. I thought it was so disrespectful. Oddly enough, my idea of God, is a light-hearted kind God, who loves all of us the same...but this was just over the top...and Mindy...it was soooooooo boring! .-= forcryeye´s last blog ..<a href="http://forcryeye.blogspot.com/2010/02/how-art-saved-me.html" rel="nofollow">How Art Saved Me</a> =-. I was so happy to find a place where there were others that did not have the profound connection to this book, as so many of my friends had. There is an interesting review of this on Amazon where an English teacher reminds us that putting a physical charachter to God is actually heresy. I thought it was so disrespectful. Oddly enough, my idea of God, is a light-hearted kind God, who loves all of us the same…but this was just over the top…and Mindy…it was soooooooo boring!
.-= forcryeye´s last blog ..How Art Saved Me =-.

]]> By: Mindy http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-38677 Mindy Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:10:34 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-38677 I didn't care for "The Shack" for several reasons. Right off the bat it was difficult to get past the stilted writing. I know this is Young’s first published work, so I'll forgive him that, but it really did affect my attitude as I tried to digest the message of the book. The dialogue bugged the dickens out of me. . . how Papa, Sarayu and Jesus all “discussed” one topic at a time, giving it different metaphors and explanations , beating it into the ground until it was all I could do to keep from skipping ahead entire boring pages at a time. Theologically, my views differ here and there from the author’s, which was a minor issue. This was a story. But he plays the book off as an allegory, when it’s not. It’s not about symbolism and interpretation. It’s an in-your-face monologue about the author’s personal beliefs. Mostly I’m disappointed at what a yawn-fest the book was. So many times I wanted to just stop reading it, but many of my friends and family members had spoken highly of it and I just couldn’t understand why I wasn’t feeling the same way. I thought I had to be missing something, so I kept reading, hoping the good parts were just another page away. But good parts never came. Instead, I went back and forth between sheer boredom and being aghast at how corny the whole thing was. It’s a shame, because the topic is a magical one, and I was hoping I would feel that when reading the book. Instead, I felt no emotional connection to it and its characters, and it has not changed the way I feel about, or relate to, my God. I didn’t care for “The Shack” for several reasons. Right off the bat it was difficult to get past the stilted writing. I know this is Young’s first published work, so I’ll forgive him that, but it really did affect my attitude as I tried to digest the message of the book. The dialogue bugged the dickens out of me. . . how Papa, Sarayu and Jesus all “discussed” one topic at a time, giving it different metaphors and explanations , beating it into the ground until it was all I could do to keep from skipping ahead entire boring pages at a time. Theologically, my views differ here and there from the author’s, which was a minor issue. This was a story. But he plays the book off as an allegory, when it’s not. It’s not about symbolism and interpretation. It’s an in-your-face monologue about the author’s personal beliefs. Mostly I’m disappointed at what a yawn-fest the book was. So many times I wanted to just stop reading it, but many of my friends and family members had spoken highly of it and I just couldn’t understand why I wasn’t feeling the same way. I thought I had to be missing something, so I kept reading, hoping the good parts were just another page away. But good parts never came. Instead, I went back and forth between sheer boredom and being aghast at how corny the whole thing was. It’s a shame, because the topic is a magical one, and I was hoping I would feel that when reading the book. Instead, I felt no emotional connection to it and its characters, and it has not changed the way I feel about, or relate to, my God.

]]> By: Tony http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-37280 Tony Sat, 09 May 2009 19:22:59 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-37280 I totally agree with you. I'm almost done reading it, and I can't stand this book! And yes, I thought the EXACT same thing about Papa: it's like they stole the persona of the Oracle from the Matrix. I was hoping for a more spiritual book (that follows somewhat along what the Bible teaches) and expecting a lot more. Unfortunately for me, I have been terribly disappointed. I totally agree with you. I’m almost done reading it, and I can’t stand this book! And yes, I thought the EXACT same thing about Papa: it’s like they stole the persona of the Oracle from the Matrix. I was hoping for a more spiritual book (that follows somewhat along what the Bible teaches) and expecting a lot more. Unfortunately for me, I have been terribly disappointed.

]]> By: Jen http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-37237 Jen Sat, 02 May 2009 00:14:12 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-37237 Half way through and I hate the book.. Sorry, I just do. The Matrix connection also ran through my mind. I invested money in the book, so will finish the read, but I have to force myself. Half way through and I hate the book.. Sorry, I just do. The Matrix connection also ran through my mind. I invested money in the book, so will finish the read, but I have to force myself.

]]> By: Juli http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-37140 Juli Thu, 09 Apr 2009 02:26:55 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-37140 I had a hard time with the kidnapping, torture, and gruesome murder of the young girl. I know this was an emotional set up to create an atmosphere from which to present a different perspective of God, but I didn't like it. As to the concepts presented, I don't have a problem with them, and have, in fact, already read them many other places within a much less disturbing context. I don't mind that others enjoyed the book. I was just disappointed after having so many people that I know recommend it. I had a hard time with the kidnapping, torture, and gruesome murder of the young girl. I know this was an emotional set up to create an atmosphere from which to present a different perspective of God, but I didn’t like it. As to the concepts presented, I don’t have a problem with them, and have, in fact, already read them many other places within a much less disturbing context. I don’t mind that others enjoyed the book. I was just disappointed after having so many people that I know recommend it.

]]> By: sara http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-37132 sara Tue, 07 Apr 2009 05:20:14 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-37132 I agree with Monica. I don't like the book. No, I hated it. At least Monica is open to opinion, I am not. I agree with Monica. I don’t like the book. No, I hated it. At least Monica is open to opinion, I am not.

]]> By: Monica Brand http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-37098 Monica Brand Sat, 28 Mar 2009 00:44:50 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-37098 Oh, I thought you meant to create fiction from your soul/gut/heart. As a writer, those are the same to me. I may write something that comes from my soul, but it's not like I want folks to study it, underline passages and memorize it like we do with the Bible. Thanks for coming back to comment again. Oh, I thought you meant to create fiction from your soul/gut/heart. As a writer, those are the same to me. I may write something that comes from my soul, but it’s not like I want folks to study it, underline passages and memorize it like we do with the Bible. Thanks for coming back to comment again.

]]> By: Lon http://paperbridges.net/2009/02/12/dont-hate-me-cause-i-dont-like-the-shack/comment-page-1/#comment-37097 Lon Fri, 27 Mar 2009 21:57:11 +0000 http://paperbridges.net/?p=1072#comment-37097 Well...there is only one Bible - only one collection of writings that God Himself has set aside as the ultimate written authority for the Church (and everyone!). But I believe God is still in the business of communicating to us by His Spirit. The Bible itself refers to things spoken by and done by God that are not included in the Scriptures. (John 21:25) And this same Jesus appeared supernaturally to Paul (at that time Saul) on the road to Damascus. And since He is the same "yesterday, today and forever" then it should be no surprise that He would, by His Spirit continue to intimately communicate with us. "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth;" (John 16:13) And that is what I mean when I say that this man wrote the book from his soul. Yes, every book written has some connection with the writer's soul (mind, will and emotions), but not every book is one that God has encouraged a person, by His Spirit, to write. Well…there is only one Bible – only one collection of writings that God Himself has set aside as the ultimate written authority for the Church (and everyone!). But I believe God is still in the business of communicating to us by His Spirit. The Bible itself refers to things spoken by and done by God that are not included in the Scriptures. (John 21:25)

And this same Jesus appeared supernaturally to Paul (at that time Saul) on the road to Damascus. And since He is the same “yesterday, today and forever” then it should be no surprise that He would, by His Spirit continue to intimately communicate with us.

“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth;” (John 16:13)

And that is what I mean when I say that this man wrote the book from his soul. Yes, every book written has some connection with the writer’s soul (mind, will and emotions), but not every book is one that God has encouraged a person, by His Spirit, to write.

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