Castles in the Sand vs. The Shack

by John Lanagan
My Word Like Fire

Castles in the Sand, by Carolyn A. Greene, looks like a novel and reads like a novel, but it is something far greater. It is a trumpet. It is intended to warn believers and non-believers about the dangers of contemplative spirituality. Perhaps, after reading this very interesting story, there will be those who turn away from contemplative prayer and other forms of anti-Biblical meditation.

Perhaps. Popular pastor Rick Warren now openly endorses contemplative spirituality.[1] It is tearing through the church and it is…changing us. Its adherents follow the path of the desert fathers and mothers, who sought union with God in the meditative Silence where thoughts are stilled.

As noted in ‘Alcoholics Anonymous and Contemplative Spirituality,’[2] “Roger Oakland writes, ‘When [someone] is introduced to meditation, which produces a feeling of euphoria and well-being, he mistakes this for the presence of God. And thus the foundation of his faith is not on Christ or the Word of God, but rather on this feeling.’”[3]

The Bible tells us, “No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.” (2 Corinthians 11:14)

Historically, around the world, much has been experienced in the meditative silence. Bliss. Spirit-guides. A higher self. Oneness. And there have been false “christs,” wrapped in shining deception, communicating instructions and “wisdom” to some.[4]

You will meet such a false “christ” in Castles in the Sand, encountered by the novel’s heroine through the meditation she has learned in her “spiritual formation” classes. This is actually happening in numerous Christian colleges throughout the United States and Canada.

When Paul Young had his first copies of his novel, The Shack, he went on the public speaking circuit. He is warm, charming, and funny, and people wanted to believe in his false version of “god.” Click here to continue.