LESSONS FROM THE SCHOOL OF THE DESERT – UNDERSTANDING ISLAM – RESPECT: Written by David Maddox
I love the way Time to Revive teaches that we should approach everyone just as Jesus did and that was first to love them – then to listen to them – next to allow the Holy Spirit to discern what is really needed by this individual – and only then to respond – and we only respond as God leads. This approach is particularly important in seeking to establish any relationship with a Muslim. One word seems to provide us guidance – and that word is “respect”. Unlike the average Christian, a Muslim’s religion is their priority and thus they will not tolerate anyone who does not show them respect as followers of Allah, respect of their book, their Prophet, their customs and traditions – and yes their women. You are not required to agree with them, but if you want a relationship of any kind or ever hope to be able to share the Gospel with a Muslim, you must grant them the respect for them to believe what they believe even as you would desire them to grant that to you (which they may or may not).
For example – “Islam teaches that the Qur’an is an exact word-for-word copy of God’s final revelation, words inscribed on tablets that have always existed in heaven” (Ergun and Emir Caner in “Unveiling Islam”). As such there is no place for disagreement for God has spoken. Many, if they thought about it, would say that is how Christians should feel about Scripture, but the difference in the conduct of a Muslim regarding their book and its teachings, and Christians regarding the Bible evidences that for most it simply is not true. “Because of Muslim belief that the Qur’an is an exact dictated revelation, Muslims kiss the book, place it to the forehead, and store it on the highest shelf in the house” (Ergun and Emir Caner in “Unveiling Islam”)Christians on the other hand feel free to disregard teachings in the Bible with which they disagree and most treat the Bible physically with no special respect. It is the difference between what is considered holy having come from God, and what is considered as merely a guide at best. The Muslims treat their book as Christians should treat the Bible. Unfortunately that is true and is something for which we must repent and follow their example. Because of their belief concerning the Qur’an, when encountering a Muslim a Christian must respect what Muslim’s believe about their book and its teachings, and be careful to contrast differences between what it says with what the Bible says in a way that does not unnecessarily offend.
In my experience seeking to share the Gospel with Muslims I have found the most success in asking questions about what they believe. I tell them I am a Christian and I don’t really understand what Muslims believe and then I begin to ask them about their beliefs. I listen carefully giving them the opportunity to in effective evangelize me while setting up the distinctions that separate their beliefs from the truth of Scripture. My questions are respectful and serious because I want to learn more about what this individual believes recognizing that there are groups with different beliefs among the Muslims. I usually begin by saying, “I understand that Jesus is considered a Prophet by Muslims. What do you believe about Jesus?” That opens lots of doors and opportunities to ask and listen and learn and show love and respect. Only when they finish telling me everything about their beliefs that would enable me to become a Muslim do I say something like, “Can I share with you what Christians believe about Jesus”. I have never had a Muslim tell me “no” after I have listened respectfully to what they share about their faith. By listening with respect – I have earned the right to share – not to attempt to persuade (that is the Holy Spirit’s job). Always remember – “In the Islamic community . . . the Christian must earn the right to be heard” (Ergun and Emir Caner in “Unveiling Islam). Earning the right to be heard begins with respecting their beliefs, without agreeing with their beliefs.
Pastor Dewey Note: David Maddox – After a legal career in both Texas and Arizona that spanned over 40 years as a civil litigator, God called David to leave his law practice and work full time as Discipleship Director for Time to Revive. That call is really the fruit of decades of prayer for revival and teaching God’s Word, writing discipleship materials and seeking to make disciples. David married Janet Whitehead in 1976 and they minister together from their Phoenix home. God has blessed them with four children and thus far seven grandchildren.
