The Shack Part Two

Quite awhile back I posted part one of a review of a book that is all the rage of Christian bookstores, a book titled The Shack. Somewhere between work and weddings I lost the file and couldn’t post part two! Thankfully I found it, and so after much waiting, here it is!

 “The Shack is Wrong About Salvation

How does a person get to heaven? This question, arguably the most important you can ever ask,is never answered in The Shack. Instead, we are treated to mindless jargon that sounds similar tothe words of a Buddhist monk. Here’s an example, an exchange between Jesus and Mack:

Jesus: “I have no desire to make them Christian, but I do want to join them in their

transformation into sons and daughters of my Papa…”

Mack: “Does that mean that all roads will lead to you?”

Jesus: “Not at all. Most roads don’t lead anywhere. What it does mean is that I will travel any road to find you.”

This exchange, found on page 182, should raise some red flags. At first glance, you might think that Jesus is simply painting a beautiful picture of grace; demonstrating that He’s willing to do whatever it takes, go down any road, to reach mankind. However, I don’t believe this is what the author means. Throughout the book, there are a repeated chances to explain salvation. But at every opportunity, the author veers off course and makes some statement that smacks of universalism. In the discussion on hell (chapter eleven), it is implied that, perhaps, God doesn’t really send anyone to hell.

 

This kind of thinking is foreign to the Bible. Jesus preached about hell, and we should too…with tears in our eyes. And we should steadfastly proclaim Christ’s message of salvation that The Shack never once mentioned: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one cometh unto the Father but by me” (John 14.6).

 

The Shack is Wrong About the Trinity

Probably the most heretical moments in The Shack involve its portrayal of the Trinity. I know that heresy is a serious word, and must only be used with great care. However, after carefully evaluating The Shack, I am forced to conclude that this book is heretical in its depiction of the Trinity.

 

In The Shack Mack has an opportunity to hang out with God for a weekend. As we know from Scripture, there is only one God (Deuteronomy 6.4), yet He is a Trinity, composed of Three divine, coequal persons (Matthew 28.19). The Bible tells us of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In The Shack, Mack gets to meet all three. He meets Papa (an African American woman), Jesus (a middle eastern man), and Sarayu (an Asian woman).

Most people are probably shocked when they see God portrayed as female. The basic problem, however, is that God is portrayed at all. The Bible makes it clear that no man can see God (John 1.18). This is why the Son was incarnated, clothed in human flesh so that He could be the representative, the mediator between God and men (Hebrews 1.1-4 & John 1.1-18). If you want to see the Father, look at the Son (John 1.14-18). If I want to visualize God, I should visualize a middle eastern man, since Jesus was a Jew. I should not imagine the Father as a white, gray bearded father, nor should I imagine a black woman “Papa.” Both conceptions are wrong, and miss the point of the incarnation.

 

I do not believe that we should use creative license when we describe God. He is a holy, unapproachable light, and we cannot merely conjure up images of Him. And since He calls Himself our Father, it is blasphemous to portray Him as our mother. I know that God is neither male nor female. But I also know that He ALWAYS refers to Himself with masculine pronouns. For us to depart from the biblical description is to mess with the person of God…and that’s not something I want to do.

 

These are the three major problems, but there are some more minor issues as well. Throughout the book the author consistently advocates a philosophy of feminism, he works in his liberal environmentalist themes, and he discredits the idea of authority structures.

 

Conclusion

What are we to think when spiritually mature Christians recommend that we read The Shack? I, for one, do not wish to reject those who appreciate this book; I’ll be happy to hang out with you at Starbucks any time. However, I hope that our conversation can be based upon the Bible, rather than upon emotion. Because of The Great Sadness, the book seems to strike a sympathetic cord in the hearts of those who read it. Consequently, it can become a highly charged and personal issue. I would urge every reader of The Shack to try and set aside their feelings as they read, so that they can evaluate this book in the piercing light of God’s Word.

 

Sola Scriptura!

Stephen Stallard”

And now to try out this handy-dandy new application…

 (And as always, feel free to email me if you want to discuss this)

A Devoted Life Shawna Edition

Several months ago (maybe even a year ago), I just happened to stumble on someone’s wedding slideshow. I didn’t really know this person, but I fell in love with the pictures. This was right around the time that photography was beginning to completely captivate me. I had always liked different pictures and styles, but never found that perfect sweet spot of photography. This slideshow was amazing. It took my breath away, and I knew that I had found it. I began to stalk the blog of the photographer, just drinking in the beautiful art, and breathtaking photos. However the time came for me to start my blog. Also almost at this exact same time Shawna posted something on her own blog saying she wanted to hear from all her silent readers. Well, I posted something, and I think I asked if she could email me about me linking to her blog on my blog. Well that tiny email gave me just a glimpse of the wonderful person Shawna is, but the thing that blew me away was her friendliness. She acted like I was a friend. I was ecstatic to say the least, and told all my friends I had finally met my “favorite photographer.” She has continued to be a good friend, and and endless fountain of glorious photography wisdom. I knew that Shawna would be my next interview, and she graciously fit time into her crazy schedule to answer my questions. I am blown away even more reading her answers, and seeing a true depth to her life. Thank you so much Shawna! You are an inspiration, both in everyday life, and in photography. Without further ado, ladies and gentlemen, Shawna Herring!

What is your greatest concern for girls today—what do you think they “don’t get”?

That identity is defined by what the world says, or worse, some guy. Girls don’t get that they have unspeakable VALUE and that they should honor themselves by not participating in premarital sex.

What are you currently studying in your times with the Lord? What is one aspect of God’s character you’ve learned about this past year?

I am loving the book “UnChristian” by David Kinnaman. It’s about what a new generation really thinks about Christianity. It’s like a hard punch in the gut. I want to be effective in reaching the lost and to do that, I have to understand what the “lost” think about me as
a Christian. His ability to love unconditionally. How hard it is for me to do that and how much I want to.

We know you don’t have much spare time, but what is one extracurricular activity that you make time for at this stage of life?

um….pass. I wish I could say the gym but it is still just an intention

What in your opinion, is the most urgent challenge that Christian women face today?

Not being afraid to be bold and real. Seems like women are WAY too concerned about putting on a good appearance instead of just being honest. It hinders relationships, it keeps them in bondage and it just rips people off. We are too concerned about what others think and not concerned enough about what God thinks

Starting from the very beginning: where did you grow up and how would
you describe your family and childhood years? When did you come to know Christ?
I grew up in Utah with one older sister. I was diagnosed with Diabetes age 7. My parents divorced when I was 9. My dad was an abusive alcoholic and my family was pretty dysfunctional. My mom worked 3 jobs which left us “latchkey kids” and my dad remarried and had 2 children. They later divorced and she died from alcoholism. My mom remarried and he was not a nice guy either. ( also later divorced ) My sister got pregnant and moved out at 16, and I was left in a home that felt unloving and strict. I went to the Mormon church ( it was really the only option!) with my best friend until my sophmore year when I had lots of questions and dropped out of seminary ( the mormon
doctrine class in every public school in Utah). I looked for love in all the wrong places and moved out of the house 2 days after turning 18. I can talk about these things easily because i have been set free from all rejection and childhood sadness because of the work of the cross and Jesus. I didn’t have a lot of fun growing up. I was confused and i cried a lot. Never had an example of what a Godly marriage was like until I found Jesus at 30 years old and my pastors pretty much adopted me. I am not who I used to be so I am grateful for the childhood and family I had because it led me to the Lord. I went back to Utah last year and got to see my sister be baptized and help her baptize my mom. Praise God!!! I moved to Hawaii after high school and thought I found freedom. It wasn’t Utah, there were no Mormons pointing the condemning finger at me. It was paradise. Really. Beach all day, I waitressed at nights and made a ton of money. I partied, did drugs, fell in and out of love, continually looking for that deep elusive peace. You name it, I did it. I thought I had the life. I was really a mess inside. I married at 24, gave birth to my daughter at 27 and was a single parent at 28. He was unfaithful and left us. I was broken and returned to Utah for 6 months and moved to california. I began to ask God if He was real to please help me. My life was a mess. Bbecause of my momon experience ( not good to say the least ) I refused to look for God in a church but began to seek everywhere else. Books, Budist temples, new age…nothing worked. One of the first friends I met in California ended up leading me to the Lord…after a year of praying for me and being there for me, I gave in and said I would go to church with her. It was a Vineyard church ( John Wimber ) and I went, cautiously, and within the first 5 minutes, the Holy Spirit basically knocked the wind out of me and I cried and cried and cried and even had snot bubbles coming out my nose at the end of the service. I was totally undone. It is the most wonderful day to think of and remember. The day I found love. The day I surrendered everything to Jesus. My life has never been the same and 9 years later I am still crying at the mercy and goodness of it all. He is so wonderful.

You probably know me as:
Outspoken, passionate. .

I’ve been married for:
3 years, 3 months

I was born in:
American Fork Utah

The best “spiritual” book I’ve ever read (besides the Bible) is:
The Revelation of the Cross by Cesar Castellanos

Right now I am reading:
UnChristian by David Kinnaman and Foundational Truths for Christian Living by Derek Prince

The movie I’ve watched more times than any other:
Braveheart.

The music you would find me listening to right now:
I have been stuck on Jack Johnson’s Sleeping through the Static for over 3 weeks. I am a big fan of music, Sean Feucht and Shawn McDonald are big favorites lately too.

My favorite food:
Toasted bagel with avacado, sunflower seeds, cholula, red onion and Jane’s Krazy salt. I could eat that every day. (Editor interjection here: Shawna, I think you just named pretty much every food I don’t eat, haha)

In the morning I drink:
Too much coffee

My favorite place in the world:
The ocean.

A Bible verse I return to often:
I love Isaiah 61

Woman I most want to be like:
My Pastor’s wife, Denise Page ( in California ) she has been to most influential woman in my life. Ever. Her example of a mother, friend, disciple, and lover of Jesus comes to my mind multiple times in a day. The power of SEEING an example is not compared to anything else. You can hear about something all day long but until you see it, you’ll have questions.

What is a “typical” day like for Shawna Herring?
Taking care of my 17 month old most of the day, answering emails and
returning phone calls when she naps…housework, pick up Madi at 2:30,
housework, dinner, family time, put kids to bed at 9, work till
midnight on photography related stuff.

Can you tell us about your children? What are their names and how old
are they? What is your favorite part about being a mother?
Madison is 11 today (Editor edit: HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADISON!!!!) . She is amazing. Zoe is 17 months old. The best part about being a mom is the constant reminder of the
Father’s love towards me. Also that I have the ability to shape a mold a life to make a difference.

What do you think is one of the greatest needs among mothers today
and how would you encourage them?
It’s so easy to get caught up in the speed of life and go for convienience when it comes to TV, food, Games, etc. I think it is super important to spend time with your children. Turn your TV off, it’s mostly junk anyway, don’t let them watch movies that promote values that are not your own. It’s not ok to play violent games for entertainment or have freedom on the internet. I think you can’t be too careful with your children. Be a hawk. Know what they are doing and don’t try to be their friend. They have friends, they need a mom. There is no greater role you will ever play than that of raising your child and you will be rewarded for investing in them.

I know that you work extremely hard. What are some of your favorite
ways to rest and relax?
I love being outdoors and spending time with family and friends.

What is one question you wished I had asked and what is your answer?
Q: What do you feel is the purpose of life? ( ha ha )

A: To win the lost ( tell the world about Jesus and demonstrate His love) and make diciples ( give away what you have, commit to people for life and be faithful in walking along side them, shoulder to shoulder.

I also asked Shawna to explain what the WPJA is, and how she is involved:

Leading the way in Wedding Photojournalism, WPJA represents the most discriminating
talent around the world technically, creatively and visually. Qualified members hold industry-leading standards, skills and business integrity.

The Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA), an International, membership-based organization, represents professional photographers skilled in the documentation of weddings and events in a candid, unobtrusive style. The WPJA was founded to uphold excellence in the area of wedding photojournalism.

It is really an amazing organization that has fabulous talent. I am inspired by the work that is displayed. There are quarterly image contests held and those are always very stressful but exciting. I have placed 3 images that have won a blue medallion which increases my status within my state. I love this association. I have booked many weddings and am continually challenged to stay fresh and creative.

Thank you so much Shawna!

(Photograph copyright Shawna Herring Photography)

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Life 101

My life has pretty much returned to normal. Granted, it is definitely prone to crazy moments, but pretty normal. I finally got over my illnesses. Hopefully a month and a half was all there was to it, and I can enjoy the beautiful spring sunshine. (Did I mention how much I L-O-V-E Spring?!) I am praying about so many things right now, but don’t really seem to have the answers hitting me on the head, so I’m learning to rest in this moment. Even though my circumstances aren’t what I would ever have planned God is teaching me that only rain grows the flowers. I am resting in God’s will for my life, and giving Him my hopes and my dreams. I do have two very specific things I would ask everyone to pray for.

1. Continued Health. I have really struggled ever since those back problems, and each day it feels like I’m on the verge of another spasm. That is no way to live (but hey, Amy Carmichael did it for 20 years!) and I would like to be able to get back to more normal. Even simple things like turning over when I’m asleep can’t happen. Pray that God would heal it completely, bring it down to a workable pain, provide provision for doctors etc., or teach this wimpy little girl to hang in there and get over it!
2. I need a job. In the modern world we live in too many things require one thing. $money$. I would be content with a little house, growing my own food, walking to town, but that’s not the way things work in the middle of civilization. I have been praying that God would provide me with a nanny job (I LOVE kids, and always wanted to be Mary Poppins or Maria Von Trapp), or a steady photography job. Both of those things I love, and as I’ve learned from my many years at that horrid Chicken Place you really do need to love your job. Don’t get me wrong, at this point I will take whatever job I can do and honor God with, but it just makes it so much better to love what you do for a living.

Anyway, I would just appreciate your prayers for me on those issues. I am daily reminded of these verses:

” But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” -  Philipians 4:19-20

“As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.” – Psalm 17:15

A Devoted Life

Something I have wanted to do on my blog, even before I had it, was interview various godly women (and men too…maybe.) This first one is so very special to me. I met Hannah Kimbrough at a time I when I was going through so much and just trying to figure out what to do with myself. Hannah has listened when all I can do is talk through my problems and situations, and she is always ready to encourage and advise. We have so many crazy memories together. From dressing up, to going to the lake (finally!), to taking millions and millions of pictures. She has been, and always will be, one of my dearest friends, and close sister in Christ.

1) How and when did you first come to know Jesus as your Lord?
When I was six years old I asked Jesus to come into my life and be my Saviour. My teen years were full of doubting struggles, from which I learned a lot. Today I praise God for saving me, and I know that my faith is in Christ alone.

2) What has been the biggest change in your life as a result of salvation?
knowing who I AM. I suppose that is obvious, but being changed and knowing what changed are two different things. A realization of what salvation did changed my life. I am perfect, whole, complete in HIM.

3) What is your favorite thing about Jesus?
“Casting all your care on Him, for He careth for you”. That is so amazing to me. He died for me, He lives for me. He cares…even about the little things!

4) What do you feel God’s purpose for your life is?
To spread His glory! If I had to “specify”, I would say that my burden is to assist others in coming to personal freedom, spiritually and emotionally.

5) What is the hardest thing for you to live out as a set apart woman?
Not being able to change things. I see the need for so much, and I find that frustrating at times.

6) What woman has impacted your walk with God more than anyone else?
Just one? I can name three off the top of my head who have greatly impacted my life: Mrs. Owen who has offered me so many tidbits of wisdom and truth. My grandmother who has given me “how to’s” of a Christ filled life and offered an example of a victorious life… and last but not least, My Mom, who has not only taught me the Truth, but has lived it out on a daily basis before me.

7) In your daily walk with God, what are a few things that you do to remain renewed and focused on God? There are two things that have helped me tremendously (besides just Bible reading and prayer): keeping a journal of progress and struggles. A place where I can look back upon what God has done. And then my favorite, recording in “my book of promise” Scripture verses that are of particular help in specific areas. THis gives me a place to go where I can recall the specific ways God has been and IS faithful.

8 ) If you could say one thing to other Christian girls what would you say?
It will be worth it all! Never give up. Faith is walking according to what God HAS said. Base your life on the Words of Life, and He who has called you will be faithful also to do it!

9) What do you do to entertain yourself?
I like to read, run, write, talk, play the piano, take pictures, paint, laugh, eat….

10) What are some of your favorite books?
I love historical fiction and Christian fiction, Christian biographies, and inspirational works. I love to read and I have soo many favorites! To name a few: Captivating, The Heavenly Man, Cries of the Heart

11) What is one of your favorite things to do in the course of a day?
Go outside at least once! or sit outside at night and see the moon and stars…but thats not during the day

12) What is your favorite bible verse?
I have several, but on the top would be 2 Corinthians 12:9. HIs grace is sufficient!

13) As far as music goes, who is your favorite artist and why? (Also name a couple of your favorite songs) Oh my. I love music. I have never had a favorite artist or song, because it is ever changing. I would have to say though one of my very favorites is “Before the throne of God above”. My testimony song!

14) Can you describe yourself in one word?
Nope. But I will try. Umm, “random”. It seemed to fit at the time. Right.

15) What is your favorite quote? (From someone other than Christ)
Out of my list of many, here is one of my favorites: “Our life will not be judged by how much we do for God, but rather by how much we allow Him to do through us”

16) What is your favorite thing about this blog (or author) ?
The blog: Relevance. It has purpose and substance. The author: a beautiful heart, devoted to pleasing one person, Jesus Christ!

Hannah has been such an encouragement in my walk with the Lord, and I pray her testimony will strengthen your faith as well.

Photograph copyright 12:9 Photography

*Thanks to Kaysie at Alabaster Box for these questions and idea.

Where Your Treasure Is

“If we could be satisfied with less
we should be less dissatisfied…
Contentment is
the crown jewel
of a happy life.

A Man may have

so much of this world

that he misses the next.“
~C.H. Spurgeon

~~~~~~ 

“If ye then be risen with Christ,

seek those things which are above,

where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

Set your affection on things above,

not on things on the earth.”

~Colossians 3:1,2

~~~~~~

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth,

where moth and rust doth corrupt,

and where thieves break through and steal:

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven,

where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt,

and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

For where your treasure is,

there will your heart be also.”

~Matthew 6:19-21

~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Portion

My Vow:
Whatsoever Thou sayest unto me, by thy grace I will do it.My Constraint:
Thy love, O Christ, my Lord.My Confidence:
Thou art able to keep that which I have committed unto Thee

My Joy:
To do Thy will, O God.

My Discipline:
That which I would not choose, but that which Thy love appoints.

My Prayer:
Conform my will to Thine.

My Motto:
Love to live, live to love.

My Portion:
The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance.

“Teach us good Lord, to serve Thee as Thou deservest; to give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not to seek for rest; to labor and not to ask for any reward save that of knowing that we do Thy will, O Lord our God.”

By: “Amma” – Amy Carmichael