When the book, "The Shack," became a best-selling novel in 2008, Christian leaders spoke out. There was a big debate about the book. Now that the movie based on the book was released in theaters on Friday, March 3, 2017, the debate continues. Even though the book and the film are fictional, they contain so many inaccuracies that go against Christian beliefs that it could confuse those who read the book and watch the movie.

The Christian Post

Carmen Fowler LaBerge of The Christian Post and host of "The Reconnect" radio program believes both the book and the movie pose a problem for christians on many levels.

LaBerge's main concern is that tens of millions of people are going to see the movie and will rely on the movie instead of the Bible for their spiritual development. The fictional movie is more for entertainment than for spiritual development. Christians, along with LaBerge, are saddened to see people embrace William P. Young's rendition of what's in "The Shack" instead of what's in the Bible, which is the word of God.

William P. Young, the author

The author of the book appeared on "The 700 Club" on Friday, March 3. The 61-year-old author explained that he wrote the book and made 15 copies at Office Depot to give to his six children as a Christmas present. It served its purpose after he put his thoughts on paper.

He never knew his manuscript would become a best-seller that would be turned into a movie. Young was quick to say that he wrote how he saw God in his circumstances.

There are many distortions or heresies in Young's book that sold over 10 million copies. One of the strongest criticisms is that God is not part of the Trinity as the Bible clearly states.

Plot of 'The Shack'

The film follows Mack Phillips, played by Sam Worthington. After a family tragedy, he becomes depressed and questions his beliefs about God. He receives a mysterious letter that tells him to go to an abandoned shack. There he has conversations with three strangers. One is "Papa" as God, played by Oscar-winning actress Octavia Spencer.

Jesus is played by Avraham Aviv Alush. The Holy Spirit is physically manifested as an Asian woman named Sarayu, played by Sumire Matsubara. Well-known singer Tim McGraw also appears in the film.

Some people say Christians are making a big deal about the movie even though it is fictional and never claimed to be biblical. While that is true, it might confuse people, including new and even seasoned Christians. Besides, the book was advertised as a Christian novel, and the film is promoted as a Christian drama.

Heresies in 'The Shack'

Al Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and host of "The Briefing," shared his thoughts on his website last week. He explains that Christians who believe the book and film have no biblical discernment.

Therefore, Mohler warns people to be aware of the many errors that don't line up with the word of God.

Dr. Michael Youssef, a well-known theologian and pastor, posted 13 heresies found in "The Shack." Youssef's "Leading The Way" international ministry reaches millions. He wants his worldwide audience to be aware of the many misconceptions from "The Shack." Christians who watch the film will definitely see that the portrayal of God in the movie is not the way God reveals Himself in Scripture.
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