Q: What Is Islam? How Can Christians Effectively Witness to Muslims?
Q: Islam seems to be one of the fastest growing religions here in America as well as around the world. We see so much on Television about its people; can you share a few facts on the religion and how we as Christians can be effective in our witnessing to the Muslim community?
A: The word ‘Islam’ actually means “surrender” or “submission.” Islam claims to be fully surrendered to the will of Allah. Here are some facts about the religion:
ISLAM
Key Figure in History:
Muhammad (A.D. 570-632)
Date of Establishment:
A.D. 622
Worldwide: Estimated 800 million to 1 billion; 58 percent live in Asia; 5 percent other. U.S. estimated 6.5 to 8 million.
WHAT IS ISLAM?
* Islam is the world’s youngest major world religion. It claims to be the restoration of original monotheism and supersedes Judaism and Christianity. It stresses submission to Allah, “five pillars” essential for salvation; missionary-oriented religion; suing military force.
WHO WAS MUHAMMAD?
* Muhammad is believed by Muslims to be the last and greatest prophet of God – through him the Qur’an was dictated; native of Mecca forced to flee in A.D. 622 preaching against paganism; having secured his leadership in Medina several military victories returned to triumph Mecca in A.D. 630; he established Islam as the religion of all Arabia.
WHAT IS THE QUR’AN?
* Qur’an is the sacred book of Islam perfect word of God for the Muslim. Qur’an was dictated in Arabic by the angel Gabriel to Muhammad; God’s precise words had preexisted from eternity in heaven with God as the “Mother of the Book” uncreated and coeternal with God. The Qur’an is about four-fifths the length of the New Testament divided into 114 chapters. Islam respects the Torah, the psalms of David and the four gospels. The Qur’an stands alone in its authority.
WHAT ARE THE “FIVE PILLARS”?
1. The confession of Faith: Its declaration is that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is his prophet.
2. Prayer of “Salat”: five times a day, preceded by ceremonial washing, the Muslim is required to pray facing Mecca.
3. Almsgiving: The Qur’an teaches the giving of two and one-half percent of one’s capital wealth to the poor and/or for the propagation of Islam.
4. The Fast: during the course oc the lunar month of Ramadan, a fast is to be observed by every Muslim from sunrise to sunset.
5. Pilgrimage: All Muslims who are economically and physically able are required to journey as a pilgrim to Mecca at least once in a lifetime.
WITNESSING TO MUSLIMS:
1. Be courteous and loving.
2. Reflect interest in their beliefs. Allow them time to articulate their views.
3. Be acquainted with their basic beliefs.
4. Be willing to examine passages of the Qur’an concerning their beliefs.
5. Stick to the cardinal doctrines of the Christian faith but also take time to respond to all sincere questions.
6. Point out the centrality of the person and work of Jesus Christ for salvation.
7. Stress that because of Jesus, His cross, and resurrection, one may have the full assurance of salvation, both now and for eternity (see 1 John 5:13).
8. Share the plan of salvation with the Muslim. Point out that salvation is a gift and not to be earned.
9. Pray for the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Trust Him to provide wisdom and grace.
10. Be willing to become a friend and a personal evangelist to Muslims.
Remember: Salvation is from God and comes only through the saving work of Jesus Christ. When we put our faith in Him, we may be saved (see John 3).