ISLAM: From God or Man? Class 4 – Reaching Muslims through Jesus Christ

ISLAM:ISLAM:From God or Man?From God or Man?

Class 4 – Reaching Muslims Class 4 – Reaching Muslims through Jesus Christthrough Jesus Christ

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TODAYTODAY A Quick Look at the NumbersA Quick Look at the Numbers Some 1.6 billion Muslims worldwideSome 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide

>> one person in four>> one person in four Fastest growing religion on earth (including the U.S)Fastest growing religion on earth (including the U.S)

Over 80 % of all Muslims have Over 80 % of all Muslims have nevernever heard the heard the Gospel.Gospel.

So how many “Church of Christ” missionaries?So how many “Church of Christ” missionaries?

>> 450 world wide (TOTAL) from U.S. >> 450 world wide (TOTAL) from U.S. About 1 “Christian” missionary per every 1 million About 1 “Christian” missionary per every 1 million

MuslimsMuslims

22

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At least 42 nations are almost completely

Islamic.

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Did you know?

Comparative chart - number of Muslims to those claiming Christian faith:

“Christian” Muslim1900 world population 26.9% 12.4%1980 world population 30% 16.5%2000 world population 29.9% 19.2%2025 world population (PROJECTED) 25% 30%

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Spreading of IslamSpreading of Islam

Most Muslim countries have Most Muslim countries have either closed the borders to either closed the borders to missionaries missionaries

or have made evangelism illegal,or have made evangelism illegal, or bothor both

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Islam is not only Islam is not only thethe dominant religion in North Africa, dominant religion in North Africa, - Began in Saudi Arabia- Began in Saudi Arabia - But now non-Arab Muslims outnumber Arab Muslims- But now non-Arab Muslims outnumber Arab Muslims (3:1)(3:1) - The 4 nations w/ largest number of Muslims today are- The 4 nations w/ largest number of Muslims today are outsideoutside the Middle East the Middle East + Indonesia – 150 million – about the total in the + Indonesia – 150 million – about the total in the

Middle East Middle East + Pakistan+ Pakistan + Bangladesh+ Bangladesh + India – 100 million + India – 100 million

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AfricaAfrica – – 307 million Muslims307 million MuslimsAsiaAsia – – 778 million Muslims778 million Muslims

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o Due to the liberal immigration policies, Due to the liberal immigration policies, millions of Muslims have now emigrated to millions of Muslims have now emigrated to the West in search of a better life.the West in search of a better life.

o In many Western European nations, Islam In many Western European nations, Islam has become the second-largest religion (32 has become the second-largest religion (32 million)million)

- France - 5 million Muslims- France - 5 million Muslims - Germany – 3 million Muslims- Germany – 3 million Muslims

"the 10/40 window.""the 10/40 window."

10 º N

latitude

40 º N

latitude

Most of the people still unreached by the gospel live in the

10/40 window

1% of mission giving

goes to the 10/40

window

1 billion unreached Muslims

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History of MohammedHistory of Mohammed

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o Mohammed was born into a pagan Arabic culture in AD 570 in the city of Mecca.

o He was an orphan by the age of six.

o He was raised by his grandfather and then his uncle.

o In adulthood, he began working for a wealthy widow, Khadija, as manager of her caravan business. They decided to marry, which gave Mohammed economic security for the rest of his life.

o He soon turned to religious pursuits to occupy his mind. He frequently fasted, meditated, and experienced dreams.

o At age forty, he received his first “miraculous” revelation of the Qur’an (an Arabic term which means “recitation”). He said arch-angel Gabriel had appeared to him through visions in a cave, encouraging him to “arise and warn.” He began to recite what Gabriel was revealing to him in the form of sermons to local people. Except for a few loyal followers, including his wife, his teachings and revelations were virtually ignored by the general public.

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o The people of the day, entrenched in idol-worship, belief in genies and spirits, were unwilling to convert to his monotheistic brand of theology.

o Borrowing from Judaism and Christianity, he preached submission to Allah only. The Arabic/Muslim term for God, Allah, was borrowed from the main god in the Arabian (pre-Muslim) pantheon, Al-ilah. his name was derived from the Canaanite word, El, and the Hebrew word, Elohim, both meaning “God.”

o Mohammed called his faith in Allah, Islam, which means “submission” or “surrender”

o In AD 622, in order to find a more willing audience and to escape a rising opposition to his teaching in Mecca, Mohammed led a following of about 200 people to Medina. This was the turning point in his career as a religious leader.

o That is why this date represents the beginning of Islam to Muslims.

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o The withdrawal to Medina is known as the Hijra. Due to a gap in leadership in Medina, he soon became statesman, legislator, and judge of a new theocratic government. However, all was not smooth.

o He continued to receive opposition, especially from the large Jewish minority in the culture.

o This rejection of a fellow monotheistic group caused Mohammed to turn his emphasis against them and embrace the native Arabian culture in his newly founded religion.

o The Ka’ba in Mecca became the center of the religion, and not Jerusalem, as he had previously planned. (The Ka’ba is a black meteorite stone previously worshiped by pagans in Mecca.)

o Mohammed “cleansed it”, and gave it a sacred meaning in Islam, making it the place of pilgrimage for all Muslims.

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o In AD 631, Mohammed and his followers, which now included a 300 man army, encountered the 1,000 man Meccan army and defeated them.

o With Mecca now defenseless, Mohammed returned defiantly to his home city. He and his followers tore down the idols of the pagan religions, but preserved the Ka’ba. The Muslims formerly prayed facing Jerusalem, but now they were instructed to pray facing the Ka’ba in Mecca.

o By the year AD 632, most of the people of the Arabian Peninsula had adopted Islam as their religion. Mohammed died that same year without appointing a successor.

o He had continued his preaching of what was “recited” to him by Gabriel, yet without writing it down.

o The first edition of the Qur’an did not appear until about thirty years after Mohammed’s death. Variations of the text continued until a final edition was agreed upon in the tenth century.

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o Mohammed or the Qur’an never claim more than prophethood for the founder of Islam. He only claims to be a messenger for God, revealing God’s intentions for his people, delivering the Divine Law and regulations for religious practice.

o Muslims believe that Mohammed is the fulfillment of Moses’s prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15-18.

o The Arabs believe they are “brothers” of the Jews, reasoning back to the relationship of Ishmael, the “father of all Arabs”, and Isaac.

o To Muslims, this could not have been Jesus, since, unlike Moses, he was born of a virgin. Mohammed is the fulfillment of this prophecy, according to the Muslims.

o Of course, this completely contradicts Peter’s inspired interpretation of the fulfillment found in Acts 3.

o Peter explains that Jesus, and therefore, not Mohammed, is the fulfillment of the Messianic prophecy given by Moses in Deuteronomy. The Christ is the one appointed to be the final authority for men’s lives.

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Blood from two perspectivesBlood from two perspectives

Blood from Jihad Blood from Christ1616

Christianity was founded on the Christianity was founded on the blood of Jesus Christblood of Jesus Christ

Islam was founded on the blood of Jihad 1717

ConsiderConsider

Christianity began and spread through evangelism…

Islam began and spread through violence

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The spread of Islam from the beginning until the present . . .

Muhammad & the Medina Years -• Raids to support the movement• Muhammad personally led his followers into 26 battles.

• By the Medina years Jihad was the force by which Islam spread – Mark A. Gabriel , Islam & Terrorism, p.31

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Early Days Until Present -

• Jerusalem surrendered 678 AD• By 711 AD Islam controlled all of North Africa.• Constantine fell in 753 AD and Islam moved into Southern Europe.

The spread of Islam from the beginning until the present . . .

• Islam was finally stopped in 17th century•There has been a resurgence of Islam during the last half of the 20th century.

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Contrast that with evangelism – Life Blood of Christianity

Evangelism is proclaiming the good news of Christ.

• Beginning of time – Genesis 3:15• The prophets – Isaiah 53

Christianity was prophesied in the O.T.

• Psalms – Psalm 22-24

ConsiderConsider

Salvation is promised to those who obey the Gospel (Hebrews

5:8-9)

Islam guarantees Paradise to Martyrs who fight for their cause

(Surah 8:39)

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This warring factor is a contract This warring factor is a contract between Allah and Muslimsbetween Allah and Muslims

“Let those fight in the cause of Allah who sell the life of this world for the hereafter. To him who fighteth in the cause of Allah – whether he is slain or gets victory – soon shall We give him a reward of great value.” – Surah 4:74

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60% of the verses in the 60% of the verses in the Qu'ran talk about JihadQu'ran talk about Jihad

EXAMPLE: Muhammad told to make war on unbelievers – Surah 9:73

“O Prophet! Strive hard against the Unbelievers and thee Hypocrites, and be firm against them. Their abode is Hell, - an evil refuge indeed.”

EXAMPLE: Slay aggressors – Surah 2:190-191

“Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not trangress limits; for Allah loveth not transgressors. And slay them wherever ye catch them.”

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Islam does not understand Judeo-

Christianity’s patience in seeking to overcome evil via example and love.

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Islam has no redeemer, no mediator, and no forgiveness guarantor.

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God vs. God vs. AllahAllahConsider the following truths :Consider the following truths :Demands obedience to arbitrary demandsDemands obedience to arbitrary demandsCan change his mind, even to the point of Can change his mind, even to the point of

casting one from paradisecasting one from paradiseDoesn’t care for all of mankindDoesn’t care for all of mankindHe stands back aloofHe stands back aloof

2727Allah

GodGod vs. Allah vs. Allah

Consider the following truths:Consider the following truths:God is a God of Love (1 John 4)God is a God of Love (1 John 4)

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the CROSS

or the Crescent

The CROSS or the CrescentA Study of Islam in the light of the ScripturesFor God so loved the world,

that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16

“Go, therefore and make disciples of

all the nations, baptizing them in the

name of the Father and of the Son

and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them

to observe all things that I have

commanded you; and lo, I am with

you always, even to the end of the

age.”

Matthew 28:19-20

“Go, therefore and make disciples of

all the nations, baptizing them in the

name of the Father and of the Son

and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them

to observe all things that I have

commanded you; and lo, I am with

you always, even to the end of the

age.”

Matthew 28:19-20

the CROSS

or the Crescent

The CROSS or the CrescentA Study of Islam in the light of the Scriptures

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some count slackness; but is longsuffering to you-ward, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

2 Peter 3:9

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some count slackness; but is longsuffering to you-ward, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

2 Peter 3:9

GodGod vs. Allah vs. Allah

Consider the following truths:Consider the following truths:We can have a personal relationship with We can have a personal relationship with

HimHimHe gives us a means of redemptionHe gives us a means of redemptionHe is actively involved…He is actively involved…

3232God

The contrast between The contrast between Jehovah God and Allah Jehovah God and Allah

is obvious!!!is obvious!!!

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We need to understand----We need to understand----

More Muslims have come to More Muslims have come to Christ in the last 25 years than in Christ in the last 25 years than in the previous 1,400 years the previous 1,400 years combined!combined!

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Jack EvansJack Evans

Bro. Evans, President of Southwestern Christian College since 1967, is perhaps the church’s MOST EFFECTIVE worker with the Nation of Islam

He has conducted two high profile debates… Available on YouTube one with a Muslim scholar and the other with a black Muslim leader.

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Dr. Jack EvansDr. Jack Evans Graduated from Nashville Graduated from Nashville

Christian Institute Christian Institute

(Marshall Keeble was Pres.) (Marshall Keeble was Pres.) o ENMU (Steve Eckstein)ENMU (Steve Eckstein) PhD from UTEPPhD from UTEP LL.D degrees by Harding, LL.D degrees by Harding,

Pepperdine, and ACU. Pepperdine, and ACU. President of Southwestern President of Southwestern

Christian College since 1967Christian College since 1967

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Jamal BadawiJamal Badawi

A professor of Religious A professor of Religious Studies at Saint Mary’s Studies at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.Scotia, Canada.

Undergraduate studies in Undergraduate studies in Cairo, Egypt and his Masters Cairo, Egypt and his Masters and Ph.D. degrees at Indiana and Ph.D. degrees at Indiana University.University.

Dr. Jamal Badawi has been Dr. Jamal Badawi has been without doubt the without doubt the best known best known Muslim speakerMuslim speaker in the West for in the West for the last two decades.the last two decades.

His books on Islam and His books on Islam and Muslim-Christian issues are Muslim-Christian issues are quite popular.quite popular.

Presented a 352-segment TV Presented a 352-segment TV series on Islam, shown in series on Islam, shown in many local TV stations in many local TV stations in Canada and the USA Canada and the USA

In the first debate,

Jamal Badawi, was

overwhelmed by the careful preparation

Evans had made

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The Debate The Debate

Jack Evans vs. Jeremiah MuhammadJack Evans vs. Jeremiah Muhammad

• Jeremiah Muhammad – Jeremiah Muhammad – ““in that dialogue Jesus in that dialogue Jesus kept coming out” kept coming out”

• The ‘rest of the story’ –The ‘rest of the story’ –

Jeremiah Muhammad left the Black Muslim faith Jeremiah Muhammad left the Black Muslim faith and embraced Christianity and was serving as and embraced Christianity and was serving as an international evangelist. Unfortunately he has an international evangelist. Unfortunately he has embraced denominationalism.embraced denominationalism.

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What arguments did he present that made you What arguments did he present that made you reconsider your own faith?reconsider your own faith?

Actually, it was the question I asked him concerning Jesus that had Actually, it was the question I asked him concerning Jesus that had the biggest impact on me that night. The question was, “Where was the biggest impact on me that night. The question was, “Where was Jesus in Genesis 1:1? ‘In the beginning God created the heavens Jesus in Genesis 1:1? ‘In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.’” It was Dr. Evans’ answer that opened my eyes that and the earth.’” It was Dr. Evans’ answer that opened my eyes that night. He went to John 1:1, “In the beginning was the Word, and the night. He went to John 1:1, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Then he said to me, Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Then he said to me, “Do you want to know where Jesus was? I can show you where he “Do you want to know where Jesus was? I can show you where he was.” He then went to Colossians 1:16-17, “For by him were all things was.” He then went to Colossians 1:16-17, “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible. created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible. ... and he is before all things, and by him all things consist.”... and he is before all things, and by him all things consist.”

That was the beginning of my 13-month study of Jesus the Christ.That was the beginning of my 13-month study of Jesus the Christ.

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A message from brother Evans:A message from brother Evans:

“ “When a Christian considers the millions of When a Christian considers the millions of Muslims in the world and their commitment to Muslims in the world and their commitment to win the world to the prophet Mohammed,win the world to the prophet Mohammed,

he must put on the whole armor of God as given he must put on the whole armor of God as given in Ephesians 6, along with a historical and in Ephesians 6, along with a historical and Quranic knowledge of Islam so that he may be Quranic knowledge of Islam so that he may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

The war has been waged, the battle is on, andThe war has been waged, the battle is on, and

the soldiers of Christ must rise to the challenge.” the soldiers of Christ must rise to the challenge.” 4040

Studying with Muslims It is important for us to focus on the important It is important for us to focus on the important

issues:issues: + Christ's deity+ Christ's deity + The crucifixion+ The crucifixion + The inspiration of the Bible. + The inspiration of the Bible.

We should view them as friends in need of truth, We should view them as friends in need of truth, rather than as enemies. rather than as enemies.

It is not wise to engage in confrontational It is not wise to engage in confrontational evangelism with Muslimsevangelism with Muslims

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So, what should So, what should wewe do?do?

Simply put, we must use the Truth!o42

“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32

“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” John 17:17

“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32

“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” John 17:17

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We need to learn to use quotes from We need to learn to use quotes from Mohammed’s Qu’ran to undermine Muslim Mohammed’s Qu’ran to undermine Muslim

confidence in him and his writings.confidence in him and his writings.

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The Qur'an and QuestioningThe Qur'an and Questioning A Muslim may be more receptive to you discussing what the Bible A Muslim may be more receptive to you discussing what the Bible

says – and you answering questions – rather than you probing what says – and you answering questions – rather than you probing what he believes.he believes. Muslims are discouraged from asking questions about their own Muslims are discouraged from asking questions about their own

faith. faith. ""O ye who believe! Ask not questions about things which if made O ye who believe! Ask not questions about things which if made

plain to you, may cause you trouble. Some people before you plain to you, may cause you trouble. Some people before you did ask such questions, and on that account lost their faith." did ask such questions, and on that account lost their faith." (Sura 5:101-102)(Sura 5:101-102)

This is not like the God of the Bible who encourages us to seek, to This is not like the God of the Bible who encourages us to seek, to ask, and to knock! ask, and to knock! What does the Bible say about inquiry? What does the Bible say about inquiry? Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the

Thessalonians, for they received the message with great Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and eagerness and examined the Scripturesexamined the Scriptures every day to see if every day to see if what Paul said was true.what Paul said was true. (Acts 17:11) (Acts 17:11)

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The Bible or the QuranThe Bible or the Quran

•What Muslims Believe:

> The Quran is considered divine in its original Arabic form.

> Muslims memorize and recite it only in Arabic

> Muslims believe that many prophets before Muhammad were

also given Allah’s Word:

- Musa (Moses) – the Torah

- Dawud (David) - the Psalms

- Isa (Jesus) – the Injil (Gospel)

* However, Muslims are taught that all these writings were

corrupted, so Allah appointed Muhammad to receive the

Quran in order to correct the corruption.

+ Among western-educated Muslims, the great diversity of Bible

versions/translations adds to their belief that the Bible is corrupt.

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The Bible or the QuranThe Bible or the Quran

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•What Christians Believe:

> The Bible is the authoritative, inspired Word of God.

* The Christian view of inspiration is that God “breathed”

His Word through the Holy Spirit to the inspired writers.

So, how do we seek to teach a Muslim?

- Some Christian missionaries caution that pointing to the

contradictions in the Quran many times provokes anger

- The best defense of the Bible’s integrity is the nature, power,

and reputation of God.

- Some like to start at “common points of agreement” –

the 120 times the Quran points to the Bible as truth.

How does Islam view the Bible?How does Islam view the Bible?

Quran 29:46 - "Quran 29:46 - "We (Muslims) believeWe (Muslims) believe in the Revelation in the Revelation which has come down to us which has come down to us and in that which came and in that which came down to youdown to you (Jews & Christians)“ (Jews & Christians)“

o Quran 3:84 – “Quran 3:84 – “We believe inWe believe in Allah, and in what has been Allah, and in what has been revealed to us and revealed to us and what was revealed what was revealed to Abraham, to Abraham, Ismail, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, andIsmail, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and in (the Books) in (the Books) given to Moses, Jesus,given to Moses, Jesus, and the Prophets, from their and the Prophets, from their Lord: We make no distinction between one and another Lord: We make no distinction between one and another among them.”among them.”

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Is Allah the same as God?Is Allah the same as God?

What Muslims believe---What Muslims believe---

- Allah is One- Allah is One

+ The Oneness of Allah is primary to Muslims+ The Oneness of Allah is primary to Muslims

They consider it a great sin to associate any They consider it a great sin to associate any “partner” with Allah“partner” with Allah

- Allah Himself cannot be known- Allah Himself cannot be known

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What Christians believe---What Christians believe---

+ God:+ God:

* God the Father* God the Father

* Jesus is God, the Eternal Word; * Jesus is God, the Eternal Word;

also the Son of Godalso the Son of God

* The Holy Spirit that He gives to * The Holy Spirit that He gives to eacheach Christian Christian

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On the Godhead

Islam Teaches... † Christianity Teaches...

Islam is monotheistic (Koran 3:64). The first phrase in the Declaration of the Faith states: "I bear witness that there is no God but the Almighty God and that Mohammad is a messenger of God."

"For God hath said, 'Take not to yourselves two Gods, for He is one God.'" (Sura 16:53; cp. 20:7)

"Verily God will not forgive the union of other gods with Himself." (Sura 4:51)

Islam rejects the concept of the Trinity. The Koran misrepresents the teaching of Christianity regarding the Godhead, claiming Christians believe in "three Gods" - Father, Mother, and Son. (Sura 5:116, 5:73-75; cp. (Koran 5:114)

In the account of creation recorded in the book of Genesis, God speaks plurally of His own Person. (Genesis 1:26, 27; cp. Genesis 3:22; 11:7; Isaiah 6:3, 8)

The Christian Scriptures, both New and Old Testaments, teach that the Godhead consists of three persons in one: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Isaiah 11:2 "...the Spirit... the Lord... Him"Isaiah 42:1 "My Servant... I... My Spirit... upon Him"Isaiah 48:16 "The Lord God... His Spirit... sent Me"Isaiah 61:1 "Spirit of the Lord God... upon Me ... the Lord"Isaiah 63:9 "He...the Angel of His Presence... His Holy Spirit"Matthew 1:20, 21 "the Lord (the Father)... the Holy Spirit ... Jesus"Matthew 3:16, 17 "Jesus... the Spirit of God... a Voice from heaven (the Father)"Matthew 12:18 "I... My Spirit... on Him"Matthew 22:42, 43 "Christ... the Spirit... Lord (the Father)"Acts 11:16, 17 "the Lord... the Holy Spirit... God... the Lord Jesus Christ"Acts 20:21-23 "God... Jesus... the Holy Spirit"Romans 1:1, 3, 4 "God... His Son, Jesus Christ... the Spirit"Romans 5:5, 6 "God... the Holy Spirit... Christ"


The Misunderstanding!The Misunderstanding!

- Muslims consider Christians polytheists- Muslims consider Christians polytheists

- A popular misunderstanding of the “Trinity” is that- A popular misunderstanding of the “Trinity” is that

Christians believe that a Father God had sex with aChristians believe that a Father God had sex with a

Mother God (Mary) to produce their “Son of God”.Mother God (Mary) to produce their “Son of God”.

- Muslims do not understand the arithmetic:- Muslims do not understand the arithmetic:

To them it is simple:To them it is simple:

1 + 1 + 1 = 3; Father + Son + Holy Spirit = 3 Gods1 + 1 + 1 = 3; Father + Son + Holy Spirit = 3 Gods

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It’s not the analogy of adding unitsIt’s not the analogy of adding units 1 + 1+ 1 = 31 + 1+ 1 = 3

it’s multiplied wholeness!it’s multiplied wholeness!

1 x 1 x 1 = 1 x 1 x 1 =

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The Old Testament prophets characterized the Messiah as being eternal. Moses records the testimony of Him who spoke from the burning bush as the, “I AM THAT I AM” (Ex. 3:14), which signifies one who is “self-existent,” or who is “eternal.” But more than that, the expression affirms: “I am really and truly present, ready to help and to act, as I have always been.

This same Person is identified as “the messenger of Jehovah” (3:2). This mysterious Person is viewed as “deity,” and was the same Being as the Messiah in Old Testament prophetic literature (see: Gen. 16:10, 13; 22:15-16; 31:11, 13; Mal. 3:1; Mt. 11:19; cf. Jn. 8:58).

The prophet Micah affirms that the “goings forth” of the one to be born in Bethlehem have been “from everlasting” (5:2).

John’s use of the imperfect tense “In the beginning was the Word?” in his Gospel account (1:1), is clear testimony of the eternal nature of the Logos who became flesh and dwelt among men (cf. v. 14).

In the book of Revelation, the expression “Alpha and Omega” symbolically depicts “the Eternal One,” and is applied both to the Father and to Christ (1:8; 21:6; 22:13).

It is equally clear that the Holy Spirit is an eternal being. This is arguable on the following bases.

First, if it is the case that the Spirit is deity, then it follows that he is eternal, for eternality is an intrinsic trait of deity (Ps. 90:2; 1 Tim. 1:17).

Second, the third Person of the Godhead is described explicitly as “the eternal Spirit” (Heb. 9:14; cf. Ps. 139:7-10).

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Is God the same as Allah?Is God the same as Allah?

2 ) Allah also has a different character than the 2 ) Allah also has a different character than the biblical God. biblical God.

How do YOU usually finish the statementHow do YOU usually finish the statement God is ________. 1 Jn.4:8 God is ________. 1 Jn.4:8

Of the “99 names for Allah”, which Muslims Of the “99 names for Allah”, which Muslims memorize and use for worship, NOT memorize and use for worship, NOT ONE of these names is “love”.ONE of these names is “love”.

(The most common characterization of Allah is(The most common characterization of Allah is “The Merciful”) “The Merciful”)

Muslims do not have the concept of a personal Muslims do not have the concept of a personal relationship with Allahrelationship with Allah

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Allah is known in Islam as merciful rather than loving, his greatness Allah is known in Islam as merciful rather than loving, his greatness removes him from any concern about daily life. Because the removes him from any concern about daily life. Because the Qur’an Qur’an claims that Adam only “forgot” and did not sin, there is no need for claims that Adam only “forgot” and did not sin, there is no need for reconciliation. reconciliation.

Their understanding of God does not allow for the incarnation of Their understanding of God does not allow for the incarnation of Christ nor the death and resurrection.Christ nor the death and resurrection.

God is viewed as so transcendent that many Muslims have been God is viewed as so transcendent that many Muslims have been tempted to find other intermediaries to meet their spiritual and tempted to find other intermediaries to meet their spiritual and physical needs. physical needs.

Muslims can assume that God is so far away and so great that they Muslims can assume that God is so far away and so great that they need not disturb him. So, they seek the aid of spirits, departed need not disturb him. So, they seek the aid of spirits, departed ancestors, and diviners. ancestors, and diviners.

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While not acceptable to classical Islam, it fills a void left by a While not acceptable to classical Islam, it fills a void left by a doctrine that so stresses his transcendence and glory that he doctrine that so stresses his transcendence and glory that he would not be allowed to “become flesh” and “dwell among us.” would not be allowed to “become flesh” and “dwell among us.” God would only send down his Word, but not engage himself.God would only send down his Word, but not engage himself.

An obvious separation exists between “high” and “low” An obvious separation exists between “high” and “low” Islam. It is the difference between what the Islam. It is the difference between what the Qur’an Qur’an teaches and what Muslims generally practice.teaches and what Muslims generally practice.

The Allah is worshipped and honored in prayers, but not The Allah is worshipped and honored in prayers, but not engaged directly or understood.engaged directly or understood.

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Is God the same as Allah?Is God the same as Allah? One of the reasons we have failed to evangelize non-Christian One of the reasons we have failed to evangelize non-Christian

nations like the Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims is that we have nations like the Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims is that we have difficulty articulating the meaning and implications of the most difficulty articulating the meaning and implications of the most foundational element of our faith - our God is one God.foundational element of our faith - our God is one God.

When Christians worship, unbelievers will know that God is really When Christians worship, unbelievers will know that God is really among them and not some other spirit (1 Cor. 14:25). among them and not some other spirit (1 Cor. 14:25).

When the poor are served it will increase thanksgiving to God (2 Cor. When the poor are served it will increase thanksgiving to God (2 Cor. 9:12). 9:12).

When the world sees Jesus they are introduced to the glory of God When the world sees Jesus they are introduced to the glory of God full of grace and truth (John 1:14). full of grace and truth (John 1:14).

When Christ is proclaimed, Jews and Greeks will understand the When Christ is proclaimed, Jews and Greeks will understand the power of God and the wisdom of God (1 Cor. 1:24). power of God and the wisdom of God (1 Cor. 1:24).

Since there is only one God, only one mediator is needed to reconcile Since there is only one God, only one mediator is needed to reconcile humanity to God (1 Tim. 2:5-7).humanity to God (1 Tim. 2:5-7).

Because there is one living God, faith apart from works is dead (Jas. Because there is one living God, faith apart from works is dead (Jas. 2:18-26).2:18-26). 5858

A religious dialogue with the average Muslim will reveal A religious dialogue with the average Muslim will reveal that he knows very little about Jesus, and what he does that he knows very little about Jesus, and what he does know is often in the negative and contradictory to know is often in the negative and contradictory to Christian beliefs. Christian beliefs. He “knows” Jesus is not the “Son of God,” that he He “knows” Jesus is not the “Son of God,” that he

was not crucified as Christians claim, and thatwas not crucified as Christians claim, and that He is just another prophet, superseded by the last He is just another prophet, superseded by the last

and greatest prophet, Mohammed.and greatest prophet, Mohammed.

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Islam view of Jesus ChristIslam view of Jesus Christ

A Basic Contradiction between A Basic Contradiction between Christianity and IslamChristianity and Islam

Jesus is the Son of GodJesus is the Son of God Jesus is deityJesus is deity Jesus died on a cross; was raised from the deadJesus died on a cross; was raised from the dead We can only be saved by Christ’s atoning deathWe can only be saved by Christ’s atoning death Christianity is God’s eternal purpose and his final Christianity is God’s eternal purpose and his final

revelation.revelation.

ISLAM DENIES ALL THE ABOVE!!ISLAM DENIES ALL THE ABOVE!!

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Islam view of Jesus ChristIslam view of Jesus Christ

Jesus was created like AdamJesus was created like Adam ‘‘Jesus was the prophet for His people in His day’Jesus was the prophet for His people in His day’ The prophet Muhammed superceded JesusThe prophet Muhammed superceded Jesus Jesus is not the Son of God, or God HimselfJesus is not the Son of God, or God Himself Jesus did not die on crossJesus did not die on cross

> ‘substituted Judas’> ‘substituted Judas’

or was miraculously delivered by Godor was miraculously delivered by God

or “hid in a niche in the tomb” or “hid in a niche in the tomb”

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But what do the Muslims say about Jesus? They give But what do the Muslims say about Jesus? They give honor to Jesus as a true prophet who succeeded in his honor to Jesus as a true prophet who succeeded in his mission from God. Jesus is mentioned much more in the mission from God. Jesus is mentioned much more in the Qur’an Qur’an than Mohammed. than Mohammed.

He is referred to as He is referred to as Isa Isa (the Arabic equivalent of (the Arabic equivalent of “Jesus”), as “the son of Mary,” as “Jesus”), as “the son of Mary,” as Masih Masih (Arabic (Arabic equivalent of “Messiah” or “Christ”), as servant of Allah, equivalent of “Messiah” or “Christ”), as servant of Allah, as Messenger of Allah, as “the word of God,” as “the as Messenger of Allah, as “the word of God,” as “the spirit of God,” and as “a sign of God”. spirit of God,” and as “a sign of God”.

Jesus is honored as a true prophet along with Adam, Jesus is honored as a true prophet along with Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Mohammed.Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Mohammed.

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Muslims believe Jesus was inferior. Muslims believe Jesus was inferior. Jesus had only 12 followers during his lifetime. Jesus had only 12 followers during his lifetime. They all abandoned him at his hour of need. They all abandoned him at his hour of need. One betrayed him; and one who was part of his inner circle of One betrayed him; and one who was part of his inner circle of

closest followers even denied him. closest followers even denied him.

Mohammed on the other hand had thousands of loyal Mohammed on the other hand had thousands of loyal followers.followers. His followers were loyal to him till death, even giving their lives His followers were loyal to him till death, even giving their lives

for him.for him.

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Deity of Jesus

Islam Teaches... † Christianity Teaches...

God has no sons:

"...Allah forbid that He should have a son." (Koran 4:171)

"It is not meet for God to have children." (Koran 19.92)

"He begets not, nor he is begotten, and there is none like unto him." (Koran 112:3)

"No son did Allah beget, nor is there any god along with him. [if so] then behold, each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have lorded it over others! Glory to Allah! from things they attribute to Him." (Koran 23:91)

"And they say, 'The Most Gracious Has betaken a son!' Indeed you have put forth a thing most monstrous! At it the skies are bout to burst, the earth to split asunder, and the mountains to fall down in utter ruin: That they attributed a son to the Most Gracious. For it is not consonant with the majesty of the Most Gracious that He should beget a son. Not one of the beings in the heavens and the earth but must come to the Most Gracious as a servant. He does take an account of them [all], and numbered them exactly, and everyone of them will come to him singly on the day of judgment." (Koran 19:88)

"And (they) impute falsely, without knowledge, sons and daughters unto Him...How can He have a child when there is no consort for him...?" (Koran 6:101-103)

Jesus Christ is deity.

Jesus himself claimed to be the Son of God:

Luke 22:70; John 10:36; 19:7

The angel declared Jesus the Son of God:

"And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and... that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." (Luke 1:35)

Even demons confessed Jesus the Son of God:

"And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God." (Mark 3:11; cp. Luke 4:41; 8:28)

The Father declared Jesus to be His Son:

•Matt 3:17 - a voice out of the heavens, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.•Matt 17:5 - While he was yet speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold, a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.•Mark 1:11; 9:7; Mark 12:6 •Lu 3:22 - and the Holy Spirit descended in a bodily form, as a dove, upon him, and a voice came out of heaven, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.•2 Peter 1:17 - For he received from God the Father honor and glory, when there was borne such a voice to him by the Majestic Glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased:

ProphetsProphets What Christians Believe:What Christians Believe:

> New Testament proclaim Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law > New Testament proclaim Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law of Moses and the predictions of the Old Testament prophets.of Moses and the predictions of the Old Testament prophets.

- Jesus’ birth – Micah 5:2- Jesus’ birth – Micah 5:2

- His virgin birth – Isaiah 7:14- His virgin birth – Isaiah 7:14

- His suffering, death, & resurrection – Isaiah 53; Psalm 16- His suffering, death, & resurrection – Isaiah 53; Psalm 16

> Christ warned about false teachers – Matthew 24:11> Christ warned about false teachers – Matthew 24:11

Suggested approach:Suggested approach:

- Do not attack Muhammad - Do not attack Muhammad

- It is much more important to lift up Jesus!- It is much more important to lift up Jesus!

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Religious HistoryReligious History What Muslims Believe:What Muslims Believe:

> Muslims believe that Islam is the original religion since the creation > Muslims believe that Islam is the original religion since the creation of Adam (its first prophet)of Adam (its first prophet)

> They believe that over the centuries Allah has appointed prophets > They believe that over the centuries Allah has appointed prophets to guide mankind.to guide mankind.

* Ibrahim (Abraham)* Ibrahim (Abraham)

* Musa (Moses)* Musa (Moses)

* Dawud (David)* Dawud (David)

* Isa Al Masih (Jesus the Messiah)* Isa Al Masih (Jesus the Messiah)

* Muhammad (the last prophet)* Muhammad (the last prophet)

> The Spread of Islam> The Spread of Islam

- After the death of Muhammad, Sunni Islam spread widely under - After the death of Muhammad, Sunni Islam spread widely under the leadership of the 1the leadership of the 1stst four caliphs (close companions of four caliphs (close companions of Muhammad)Muhammad)

- Shia Islam spread through the teachings of “infallible” Imans (from - Shia Islam spread through the teachings of “infallible” Imans (from bloodlines of Muhammad)bloodlines of Muhammad)

- To Muslims, the military & economic expansion of Islam liberated - To Muslims, the military & economic expansion of Islam liberated suffering people. suffering people. 6666

Religious HistoryReligious History

What Christians Believe:What Christians Believe: * God’s plan unfolded through the ages.* God’s plan unfolded through the ages. - Jesus is the promised seed who would crush the - Jesus is the promised seed who would crush the

head of Satan (Gen. 3:15)head of Satan (Gen. 3:15) - Abraham was to be a blessing to all families of - Abraham was to be a blessing to all families of

the earth (Gen. 12:1-3; Gal, 3) the earth (Gen. 12:1-3; Gal, 3) * Jesus came to remove the curse of sin * Jesus came to remove the curse of sin (Rom. 5)(Rom. 5)

* * The decisive battle was won on the cross when The decisive battle was won on the cross when Jesus overcame the curse of sin. Jesus overcame the curse of sin. (1 Co. 15:57)(1 Co. 15:57)

By rising from the dead, Jesus conquered death By rising from the dead, Jesus conquered death and offers the blessing of eternal life to mankind. and offers the blessing of eternal life to mankind.

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SalvationSalvation

What a Muslim believes:What a Muslim believes: - The ritual practices of Islam are the pillars of their - The ritual practices of Islam are the pillars of their

religious system.religious system. + Confession of faith (saying the Shahada) + Confession of faith (saying the Shahada) + Alms giving+ Alms giving + Prayer+ Prayer + Pilgrimage to Mecca+ Pilgrimage to Mecca + Fasting+ Fasting

- Some Muslims include a sixth pillar – the jihad.- Some Muslims include a sixth pillar – the jihad.

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SalvationSalvation

Some view “the struggle” to be the internal struggle to do Some view “the struggle” to be the internal struggle to do the right thing. the right thing.

Others see jihad as the fight (war) against enemies of Others see jihad as the fight (war) against enemies of Islam. Islam. The interpretation of jihad usually determines the The interpretation of jihad usually determines the

difference between moderate and radical Muslims).difference between moderate and radical Muslims).

Islam is a religion of works…Entrance to Paradise must Islam is a religion of works…Entrance to Paradise must be earned!be earned! Sura 101:6-9 “Then as for him whose measure of good Sura 101:6-9 “Then as for him whose measure of good

deeds is heavy, he shall have a pleasant life (in Paradise). deeds is heavy, he shall have a pleasant life (in Paradise). But as for him whose measure (of good deeds) is light, his But as for him whose measure (of good deeds) is light, his abode shall be the abyss (pit; hell).”abode shall be the abyss (pit; hell).”

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SalvationSalvation

What a Christian believes:What a Christian believes:

The Bible teaches that salvation is a gift from God through faith The Bible teaches that salvation is a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ.in Jesus Christ.

There are no rituals that anyone can do in order to get right with There are no rituals that anyone can do in order to get right with God (Eph. 2:8, 9)God (Eph. 2:8, 9)

Even though no one can be saved by good works, followers of Even though no one can be saved by good works, followers of Jesus serve Him, imitate Him, and do what He commanded. Jesus serve Him, imitate Him, and do what He commanded.

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SalvationSalvation

Jesus said, “If you love me you will keep my commands.”Jesus said, “If you love me you will keep my commands.” We are to:We are to:

Repent and believe ( a turn of heart)Repent and believe ( a turn of heart) Be baptized (immersed in water)Be baptized (immersed in water) Pray (as a lifestyle, from the heart)Pray (as a lifestyle, from the heart) Make disciples (among all peoples)Make disciples (among all peoples) Love God and othersLove God and others Partake of the Lord’s Supper (remember Jesus’ death)Partake of the Lord’s Supper (remember Jesus’ death) Give (with a joyful heart)Give (with a joyful heart)

We are to lead a righteous life involving worship, We are to lead a righteous life involving worship, fellowship, study of the Scripture, sharing the good news.fellowship, study of the Scripture, sharing the good news.

Jesus said that His disciples would be recognized by their Jesus said that His disciples would be recognized by their love for one another (John 13:35)love for one another (John 13:35)

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A Christian Approach to A Christian Approach to MuslimsMuslims

““That they may be saved” - Rom. 10:1-3That they may be saved” - Rom. 10:1-3 Some things to avoid Some things to avoid

> Cultural “no, no’s”> Cultural “no, no’s”

- Offering them pork products- Offering them pork products

- Patting a dog and then shaking hands- Patting a dog and then shaking hands

- Showing the sole of shoe- Showing the sole of shoe

- Forgetting to show hospitality- Forgetting to show hospitality

- Be careful regarding relationships between the - Be careful regarding relationships between the sexessexes

> Seeing all Islamic culture as totally evil> Seeing all Islamic culture as totally evil

> Lack of critical thinking about our own culture> Lack of critical thinking about our own culture

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A Christian Approach to MuslimsA Christian Approach to Muslims Separate the Gospel from Western civilizationSeparate the Gospel from Western civilization Demonstrate what it is to be followers of JesusDemonstrate what it is to be followers of Jesus Deal with Muslim misuse of the Bible:Deal with Muslim misuse of the Bible:

- Deut. 18:15-18 (‘the Lord will raise up a prophet..’)- Deut. 18:15-18 (‘the Lord will raise up a prophet..’)

- John 14:16 (paraclete)- John 14:16 (paraclete) Meet head-on the contradiction between Islam & ChristianityMeet head-on the contradiction between Islam & Christianity Consult the Bible often to explain what you believeConsult the Bible often to explain what you believe

(let the Muslim see/hear the Bible’s ring of authority and (let the Muslim see/hear the Bible’s ring of authority and authenticity)authenticity)

I suggest a study of Acts; spread of Christianity – WITHOUT I suggest a study of Acts; spread of Christianity – WITHOUT the sword!the sword!

Meet with them individuallyMeet with them individually

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A Christian Approach to MuslimsA Christian Approach to Muslims

BarriersBarriers+ Cultural+ Cultural+ Political+ Political > especially U.S. support of Israel > especially U.S. support of Israel+ Spiritual+ Spiritual > Western moral decadence > Western moral decadence

> If a Muslim is converted to Christianity, he can be > If a Muslim is converted to Christianity, he can be put to death for apostasy put to death for apostasy

> They link state and religion> They link state and religion

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A Christian Approach to MuslimsA Christian Approach to Muslims It is vital for the Muslim to see Christianity not as aIt is vital for the Muslim to see Christianity not as a

religion but as a living, loving, personal relationship with God.religion but as a living, loving, personal relationship with God. Use Jesus’ lessons (parables, etc) – Use Jesus’ lessons (parables, etc) –

Muslims are more influenced by “stories’ than by logical Muslims are more influenced by “stories’ than by logical argumentsarguments

Be patient - Muslims are notoriously slow in turning to ChristBe patient - Muslims are notoriously slow in turning to Christ Handle the Bible with respectHandle the Bible with respect

- they will not lower the Quran below waist- they will not lower the Quran below waist

- They consider it a sign of disrespect to write in the Quran or - They consider it a sign of disrespect to write in the Quran or BibleBible

Don’t take Muslim to church until you think they are readyDon’t take Muslim to church until you think they are ready- they find men/women sitting together offensive- they find men/women sitting together offensive

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Reaching Out to The Do’s and Don’ts of Reaching Out to MuslimsMuslims

DODO make it clear you are a follower of Christ by your words make it clear you are a follower of Christ by your words and righteous lifestyle.and righteous lifestyle.

DON’TDON’T assume your Muslim contact understands your assume your Muslim contact understands your meaning of “Christianity”. meaning of “Christianity”.

DODO take time to build a relationship. Practice hospitality. take time to build a relationship. Practice hospitality. DODO ask questions. ask questions.

but but DON’TDON’T take notes. take notes. DODO correct their misunderstandings of your beliefs. correct their misunderstandings of your beliefs. DODO talk about Jesus. talk about Jesus.

Note: They are easily insulted if you talk about Muhammad.Note: They are easily insulted if you talk about Muhammad. DODO treat your Bible with respect. treat your Bible with respect.

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Our challenge is to present the correct view of Jesus-Our challenge is to present the correct view of Jesus-

+ Followers of Jesus, through our words and actions, are + Followers of Jesus, through our words and actions, are called to show others that God loves all people so much called to show others that God loves all people so much that Jesus died on the cross; That he defeated Satan that Jesus died on the cross; That he defeated Satan and death by rising from the grave.and death by rising from the grave.

Forgiveness and eternal life are offered to each of us!Forgiveness and eternal life are offered to each of us!

2 Cor. 3:18 “2 Cor. 3:18 “And we, who with unveiled faces all And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

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The Good News of the Gospel is the holiness of the one true The Good News of the Gospel is the holiness of the one true God! God!

The steadfast love of God made it possible for him to fully The steadfast love of God made it possible for him to fully revealed himself through Jesus Christ. The mystery has been revealed himself through Jesus Christ. The mystery has been made known and we have a message to share with Muslims. made known and we have a message to share with Muslims.

That message maybe much like the proclamation of Paul to That message maybe much like the proclamation of Paul to the Gentiles in Rome:the Gentiles in Rome:

Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret for long ages but revelation of the mystery which was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed and through the prophetic writings is made is now disclosed and through the prophetic writings is made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith—to the only wise God God, to bring about the obedience of faith—to the only wise God be glory for evermore through Jesus Christ! Amen (Rm. 16:25-be glory for evermore through Jesus Christ! Amen (Rm. 16:25-27).27).

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All lessons found at:All lessons found at:

http://www.christcenteredlessons.comhttp://www.christcenteredlessons.com

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Documents

ISLAM: From God or Man? Class 4 – Reaching Muslims through Jesus Christ