Sorry I'm entering this thread late, I'm new.
Again and again I've heard from friends and read on forums that "oh it's just fiction!" and then in the very next breath went on and on about how it has changed their lives and affected their theology, their very understanding of God's nature. So... is it just fiction? The proponents and defenders of it themselves admit it's a lot more powerful (for good or for bad) than that.
In response to the bolded part, in fact the author wrote this story in order to try and teach his children doctrine. He hadn't intended to have it published for mass consumption initially. But yes it was meant to explain doctrine.
From the interviews I've seen of this fellow, he certainly is a universalist. That's an extremely serious heresy that has crept into the church.
As for those who attempted to compare The Shack to Pilgrim's Progress, please remember you're comparing a postmodernist non-Biblical piece of fiction to a thoughtful allegory written by a gifted preacher of God who spent years imprisoned for sharing the Gospel message. Apples and oranges.
If there are any who are interested in The Shack, here is an even-handed detailed evaluation of it. It should give you all you need to know to decide if it's worth your time. http://www.challies.com/archives/book-revi...iam-p-young.php
I have no problem with reading other things than just the Bible. In fact I quite enjoy reading a variety of authors. But as God's people it is prudent that we carefully discern what we are willing to expose ourselves to (in books, media, etc.). Yes, you can find at least a little truth in just about anything. That doesn't mean it's worth our time or that we're immune to the subtle deceptions also there. You want to know God better, relate to Him better? I recommend coming to Him on His terms, through His word, guided by His spirit, in obedience to Him. The Bible is the only sure written thing we've got. When in doubt, go THERE.
