Brief Answer

Islam is a monotheistic religion founded in the 7th century based on the teachings of the prophet Muhammad. Muslims, its adherents, believe in Allah as the one true God, Muhammad as His final prophet, and the Qur’an as their holy book. They follow the Five Pillars of Islam, which are foundational practices of faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage.

Understanding Islam and Muslim Beliefs from a Biblical Perspective

Islam shares some common ground with Christianity and Judaism as an Abrahamic faith, recognizing figures like Abraham, Moses, and Jesus as prophets. However, Islam diverges significantly in its view of God, salvation, and Jesus Christ. Muslims worship Allah, the Arabic word for God, but their understanding of God differs from the biblical revelation of Yahweh, the triune God of the Bible.

While Muslims regard Jesus (Isa in Arabic) as a prophet, they deny His divinity, crucifixion, and resurrection—key tenets of the Christian faith. Understanding these differences is essential for Christians seeking to share the gospel with Muslim friends in a loving and informed way.

Historical Context

Islam began in the Arabian Peninsula in the 7th century when Muhammad claimed to receive revelations from Allah, which were later compiled into the Qur’an. The rise of Islam was rapid, spreading through the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond, often through military conquest and trade.

Key historical figures and events in Islam’s formation include:

• Muhammad: Considered the “seal of the prophets,” Muhammad’s teachings form the foundation of Islamic belief and practice.
• The Hijra: Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
• The Spread of Islam: After Muhammad’s death, Islam expanded under the leadership of caliphs, blending religion with governance.

Practical Implications for Christians

Understanding Islam equips Christians to engage in meaningful dialogue and witness to Muslims. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Respect and Relationship: Building relationships with Muslims is vital for sharing the gospel effectively. Respecting their customs and beliefs fosters trust.
• Focus on Jesus: While Muslims acknowledge Jesus as a prophet, they need to understand His role as the Son of God and Savior of the world.
• Prayerful Approach: Pray for opportunities to share the truth of the gospel and for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of your Muslim friends.

Theological Depth and Insight

From a biblical perspective, Islam’s view of God and salvation highlights significant theological contrasts with Christianity:

• Monotheism: Muslims believe in a singular, indivisible God (Tawhid), rejecting the Trinity. The Christian doctrine of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is central to understanding God’s nature as revealed in Scripture (Matthew 28:19, John 1:1-14).
• Salvation: Islam teaches that salvation is earned through good deeds and adherence to the Five Pillars. Christianity, in contrast, proclaims that salvation is a gift of grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9).
• Jesus Christ: While Islam honors Jesus as a prophet, it denies His divine nature and atoning sacrifice. Yet Scripture proclaims Him as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29) and the risen Lord who conquered death (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Broader Biblical Themes

Engaging with Islam invites reflection on broader biblical themes:

• God’s Heart for All Nations: The Bible reveals God’s desire for all people to know Him, including those who follow Islam (John 3:16, Revelation 7:9).
• The Power of the Gospel: Romans 1:16 reminds us that the gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, including Muslims.
• God’s Sovereignty: Despite theological differences, Christians can trust that God is at work among Muslim communities worldwide, drawing people to Himself.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in witnessing to Muslims. He empowers believers to share the gospel with boldness, wisdom, and love (Acts 1:8). The Spirit also convicts hearts and opens eyes to the truth of Jesus Christ (John 16:8-11). Christians should pray for the Spirit’s guidance in their conversations and for His transformative work in the lives of their Muslim friends.

Relevance for Today’s Christian

In a world where interactions with Muslims are increasingly common, Christians have an opportunity to be ambassadors of Christ. Loving engagement, rooted in truth and humility, reflects the heart of Jesus.

Practical ways to connect include:

• Learning about Islamic beliefs and practices to foster understanding.
• Offering hospitality and building friendships with Muslims in your community.
• Sharing personal testimonies of God’s grace and the hope found in Christ.

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

Jesus Christ is the ultimate expression of God’s love for humanity. While Islam acknowledges God’s mercy and justice, it lacks the assurance of salvation through a personal relationship with God. In Christ, we find the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan—a Savior who laid down His life for us and offers eternal life to all who believe (John 10:10, Romans 5:8).

Sharing this truth with Muslims is an act of love, pointing them to the One who alone can bring reconciliation with God.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does understanding Islam deepen your appreciation for the uniqueness of the Christian gospel?
2. In what ways can you build bridges of respect and friendship with Muslims in your community?
3. How does Jesus’ role as the Son of God and Savior distinguish Christianity from Islam?
4. How can you pray specifically for Muslims and for opportunities to share the gospel with them?

Reflecting on these questions encourages a heart of compassion and a commitment to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with Muslim friends and neighbors.