Not the Way It’s Supposed to Be

Description

Cornelius Plantinga Jr.’s Not the Way It’s Supposed to Be: A Breviary of Sin is a theological exploration of the concept of sin and its pervasive impact on human life, society, and creation. The book is deeply rooted in Christian thought and offers a nuanced understanding of sin as more than individual moral failings—it is a systemic force that disrupts the biblical concept of shalom, which represents universal flourishing, harmony, and peace.

Key Themes
Shalom and Sin:

Plantinga defines shalom as the state of wholeness and flourishing intended by God for creation. It encompasses right relationships between God, humanity, and nature.

Sin is described as the “vandalism” of shalom. It fractures relationships, corrupts social systems, and introduces chaos into the world. Sin is not only personal but also systemic, affecting societal structures like institutions and economies.

The Nature of Sin:

The book categorizes sin into deliberate disobedience, ignorance, and neglect. Deliberate sin involves conscious wrongdoing driven by selfishness or malice; ignorance stems from a lack of understanding; neglect arises from apathy or inaction in the face of moral responsibilities.

Sin is portrayed as parasitic—it thrives by distorting good things and infecting relationships, communities, and even cultural practices. Plantinga emphasizes that sin’s effects are insidious and far-reaching.

Sin’s Impact:

Sin creates fragmentation within individuals and societies, leading to injustice, distrust, and broken relationships. It distorts human desires and moral compasses while undermining societal well-being.

Plantinga also highlights addiction as a manifestation of sin—a neglected dimension that reveals how sin entangles individuals in destructive patterns.

Redemptive Hope:

Despite the grim picture of sin, Plantinga offers hope through Christian redemption. He underscores the transformative power of grace, repentance, and forgiveness made possible through Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

Redemption restores shalom, offering believers a vision of ultimate renewal in God’s kingdom—a future where harmony is fully realized.

Conclusion
Plantinga’s work challenges readers to confront the reality of sin in all its complexity—personal, social, and systemic—while pointing toward the hope found in Christian salvation. By diagnosing sin’s pervasive effects on creation and human life, he emphasizes the necessity of redemption through Christ to restore shalom. This book remains significant for its theological depth and accessible treatment of a profound topic.