In my opinion: a lack of Biblical accuracy on heaven and a personal political statement
Safely Home by Randy Alcorn is a fictional novel based on old roommates going very separate ways for 20 years, until meeting up in China, one character’s home county. This story made up most of the book and is a needed reminder of the persecution Christians face all around the world, and the spiritual battle constantly going on which is so often easy to forget, especial as complacent American Christians who are not forced to stand up for their faith daily. On the other hand, there is a strong and constant charismatic feel throughout and I felt the last half of the book he was trying to throw in as many moral and human rights issues he could find with China, to make his own personal political statement through this book, not that I disagree with him, but it began to feel like personal venting in novel form. Also, throughout the book there are past family members and celestial beings looking down from “heaven”, watching, listening, and discussing things going on to their family below, then, as one characters dies he is allowed to see his living family (although they can’t see him) for his final goodbye. These concepts have always bothered me, considering they are not biblical. When depicting heaven, the author gives the sense that it’s inhabitants, and the Lord Himself are completely consumed by death of Martyrs and judgment of those persecuting them. Lots of wonderful scripture is used, however, my issue was with this being the only thing consuming those in heaven, including God Himself. Further, when the martyr dies near the end, his entrance into heaven is pictured mostly about himself. It goes on about his rewards, experiences, everyone has waited for him, and a great celebration in his honor of his perseverance on earth. I don’t believe heaven will strictly be a praise and worship service, but I don’t think it will be all about our achievements for the Kingdom either. Yes, we will be rewarded, but we will give our jewels and crowns back to the King Himself. I know this is a fictional novel, but considering the author’s best selling book is about and titled Heaven, I was surprised by the concept of heaven he portrayed. I almost want to read the other book of his, just to see what he said about heaven compared to this book. I didn't hate this book, but I didn't like it either. Thus, two stars. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers as a blogger book review and was not required to give a positive review.
If ANYONE knows anything about his book Heaven, and it's nothing like this, I'm curious, let me know!
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