The Shack Forum

Hi Folks,

I am new here and I am going to post a few questions that would be good to have clarified. Note: I loved the book.

On page 126 of my paperback edition, Papa describes the "will to power and independence" as "diabolical". What does Papa mean by this? (I know the definition of diabolical, I would just like a more indepth explanation)

Thanks!

Man's desire for power and independence from God was put into Eve's mind by Satan. It is against God's plan for us.

The is somewhat foundational to understand, as it colors the rest of human history, before Christ's ministry here on earth. The choice of independence away from the relationship with the Godhead was made by Adam and Eve in the garden. The Godhead, in Their mercy, allowed them to escape eternal separation through mortal death.

We see later that the wages of sin (separation) is death. This isn't a punitive punishment, rather it is simply a statement of fact. Relationship, rather than separation, was the Godhead's plan for mankind.

Blessings,
Mike

Well put, Mike.