Posts by: Staff Writer

Apologetics: Muslim Misuse of the Bible

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Apologetics and Polemics: What do we do when Muslims misuse the Scriptures? More and more now we find them trying to convince Christians that the foundational teachings of their faith are not even in the Bible. What is the Christian’s response to that? Dr. Cynthia encourages Christians to be patient with their Muslim friends while helping them to correctly extract and interpret what a biblical text says and means.

Apologetics: Context is Key

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Apologetics and Polemics: What do we do when Muslims quote to us Bible verses out of context? Context is key to understanding what the Bible teaches. Dr. Cynthia has found that if we encourage our Muslim friends to read the Gospels for themselves before they draw conclusions, this helps them accept the truth of the Bible and its gospel message.

Apologetics: Object Lessons

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Examples, stories, and object lessons help simplify difficult concepts. Muslims have been taught that Christians are wrong about aspects of God, Jesus, and the trinity. Dr. Cynthia has found that if we explain these concepts simply, sometimes using object lessons, Muslims can come to understand them. This helps them accept the truth of the Bible and its gospel message.

Street Apologetics: Short Answers to Hard Questions

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Christian from Muslim Livestream Event with CIRA International

Join Al Fadi and Dr. Cynthia as they discuss some techniques in using short answers to address tough apologetic questions by Muslims!

CIRA International – Introducing Muslims to the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Al Fadi, former Wahabbi Muslim from Saudi Arabia and the founder of CIRA International: The Center for Islamic Research and Awareness. He is the researcher, editor, writer, and translator for numerous ministries, including “Answering Islam” and runs an outreach ministry designed for non-Muslim and Christians.

Confusing Muslim Marriages | Livestream | Part One

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Christian from Muslim Livestream Event with DCCI Ministries

DCCI Ministries seek to preach the Gospel to Muslims using apologetics and polemics. Like the Apostle Paul, “we do not use deception, nor do we distort the Word of God” (2 Cor 4:2). Rather “we demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God.” Our motivation is love for Muslims to bring them to repentance and faith in Christ for eternal life.

Video Time Stamps

00:00:00 Song
00:04:32 Intro.
00:06:30 Favourite bible verse.
00:07:30 Intro to Dr Cynthia.
00:13:08 Start of discussion.
00:15:58 The topics discussed.
00:17:08 Married or not.
00:19:56 Sacrament vs contract.
00:26:25 Breach of contract.
00:29:30 Questions from the chat.
00:33:56 Marriage vows and the ceremony.
00:41:46 Muslim Christian ceremony. Love jihad – forced marriage.
00:52:18 Marriage validity.
00:59:00 Arranged marriages, child marriages, incestuous marriages.
01:21:25 Why get married.
01:28:38 Questions.

Confusing Muslim Marriages | Livestream | Part Two

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Christian from Muslim Livestream Event with DCCI Ministries

DCCI Ministries seek to preach the Gospel to Muslims using apologetics and polemics. Like the Apostle Paul, “we do not use deception, nor do we distort the Word of God” (2 Cor 4:2). Rather “we demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God.” Our motivation is love for Muslims to bring them to repentance and faith in Christ for eternal life.

Time Stamps

00:00:00 Song.
00:04:30 Intro.
00:07:26 Hello Dr Cynthia.
00:10:16 Dr Cynthia explains her ministry.
00:21:05 Temporary Marriage/secret marriage – prostitution.
00:49:10 Polygamy.
01:11:46 Financial reasons. Putting a value on people – 1000 camels.
01:19:13 We have to keep our marriage secret.
01:25:04 Divorce muslim style.
01:46:43 till death do us part.
01:51:32 Questions.

Felicity’s Testimony of Becoming Christian from Muslim

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I was born as a Muslim in a Muslim country. All I ever knew about Christianity is that Christianity was a corrupted religion. So I didn’t bother learning about Christianity.

At age 14, in school they taught me about women’s rights in Islam. As I read I found out that we don’t have rights in Islam. I was really sad. I stopped believing in Islam because I didn’t think that was right. But I didn’t tell anybody.

After I graduated from college in the Middle East I worked with some Christians. From them I learned some good things about Christianity. I wanted to learn more.

Later I had the opportunity to come to the United States to continue my studies. Besides continuing my studies in college, I thought it would also be a good thing to learn more about Christianity.

Only 10 days after I moved here I met Bible teacher Dr. Cynthia. It was then I heard the gospel from her for the first time. For nearly a year I studied the Bible with her, and I asked very many questions. After this I was convinced that Christianity was the true religion. But before I would take the big step of becoming a Christian I thought I need a miracle or a sign before doing anything.

Two years later a man in white came into my dream. He said, “Look up these words, ‘I put my trust in you.’” In the morning when I woke up I googled these words. It was a verse from Psalm 143:8. Then I decided to put my trust in Jesus. On May 1, 2016, I became a Christian.

It’s not really easy for a Muslim to change their religion, but I did it. It’s worth it to be loved by Jesus and walk with him.

CFM 2021

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Path of the Prophets Bracelet Instructions

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Path of the Prophets Bracelet

Developed by Dr. C of American Ethnic Ministries

 

Introduction

   “It’s beautiful!  It’s beautiful!  I believe it is the way to God,” said a Muslim woman wanting to receive Christ after an evangelist shared the “Path of the Prophets” bracelet with her.  Because of her enthusiasm she was given a bracelet of her own which she promised to use to share the story with her Muslim friends.

   This bracelet is being used on four continents to express the beauty of the gospel in a clear way.  Although originally made for use with Muslim women, it has been used successfully with many ethnic groups and faiths, and with both sexes, adults and children.

   The charms and/or colorful beads in this special bracelet each represent an important fact in the true story of the Bible we call, “The Path of the Prophets”.   (Not every bracelet may have all of these beads or colors, but the story is the same, and in this order.)  In settings where charms are not appropriate or available, the colors alone will serve to tell the story.

   If you are using the bracelet to share this life-giving story, be sure to do so with expression, conviction, and passion, so those listening will see that you believe it is true, and that it is important to you!  Especially emphasize God’s justice in needing to send Jesus for us – since Muslims believe we can all pay for our own sins and do not need a Savior, and his love for us in being willing to make a world that would go wrong and cost him so high a price to redeem!

(Note 1: We suggest you make your own bracelet according to your desire and wrist size. A limited number of custom made bracelets are occasionally available.  Note 2: Christians differ on whether or not to use the term “Allah” or “God” with Muslims. We accept either, in that we know and explain in this method how his character differs from the way Muslims see it, and why it matters.) 

The beads/charms and their meaning

CRYSTAL BEAD ( or SILVER triangular bead) – represents GOD.  He is pure, perfect and holy; the all-powerful Creator God who is present everywhere and knows everything.  He is merciful, compassionate and just.

HEART  – God is love.  He loves you wants a relationship with you!  And he gave you a heart so you could love him and others too. 

GIFT – all good things in your life, and everything you love are gifts from God!  They are a taste of God’s goodness and love for you.  He also gave us all the gift of choice.   

LESSON of God’s character: he wants us to choose to love him, learn about him, and follow his way, because of his goodness to us.

GREEN beads –  because God is love, he made people to have a relationship with. He made ADAM & EVE and put them in the GARDEN of EDEN.

TREE, LEAF or FLOWER    Adam and Eve chose not to obey God and were sent out of the garden.  This was the beginning of the miseries in the world.  We can not be perfectly happy on earth, because we were made for paradise and life in the presence of God.  

LESSON of Prophet Adam: if God judged and punished his first humans, he will judge and punish us.

BLUE Bead –  By the time of PROPHET NOAH people had chosen wrong so often that the world became violent and evil. God judged the world and punished it with a flood.

ARK, Raindrop or Dove charm –  Prophet Noah and his family and some animals were saved on a boat called an ark, because Noah listened to God’s voice and went his way.  

LESSON of Prophet Noah:  God punished evil, but saves those who follow his way.  WE must all  find his way!

WHITE  bead or  1st LAMB (with or without rocks like an altar)  – represents PROPHET ABRAHAM, who was the friend of God, and was so submitted to the will of God that he was willing to sacrifice his son.  

But God sent a substitute – a perfect sheep, called el Korbany (by the Muslims), and celebrated at Eid el Adha.  

LESSON of Prophet Abraham:  God asks for a sacrifice, but accepts a substitute.

BLACK beads – these represent sins.  COMMANDMENT, SCROLL, or BOOK charm – represents the law brought by PROPHET MOSES to the Israelites.  No one could perfectly keep this law, so God told Prophet Moses to have them offer blood sacrifices as payment for their sins.

The beads are different shapes and sizes because although some people sin more than others, in God’s eyes we are all sinners.  

Prophet Moses and others prophesied that if Israel was unfaithful to God and worshipped idols, it would be attacked by other nations and its people taken captive.  The Israelites did worship idols, and so the prophecy came true.  

LESSON of Prophet Moses: we are all sinners and need sacrifice to cover our sins.

PURPLE or PINK  bead – represents the Prophets of Promiser that came between Moses and Jesus, like Isaiah.  They prophesied that one day the final sacrifice would come, which would cover all sin (for example, Isaiah 53).  LESSON of the Later Prophets: we should look for the final sacrifice.

RED BEADS and 2nd LAMB charm – these represent Jesus and his blood.  Known as Isa in Islam, Jesus was the promised LAMB of GOD, as Prophet John the Baptist (Prophet Yahia) testified of him.  

Back at the beginning of creation God knew when he gave us a choice that it would cost him deeply.  His perfect character would be hurt by the evil done on earth in the midst of his lovely universe, and he would have to do something to make it right.  His perfect character and need for justice demanded it!  

SCALES charm – reminds us of God’s justice. In God’s eyes, good deeds and sins are separate things, like apples and oranges, and do NOT balance each other out.  Just as if you stole a million dollars from one neighbor, but built a hospital which saved the life of another.  The fact that you did something good for one does not change the fact that you owe money to the other. A just judge would still make you pay back or go to prison.

God knows that we are all sinners because he made us; we can’t fool him!  We do not meet his standard.  Since only God is perfect, only he can pay for sins.  As the Creator, and our heavenly Father, he takes that responsibility, in a way similar to the way your father took responsibility for you and paid for something you broke when you were little.  

Because of his great love he came to earth once to die as a sacrifice in our place and rise again.   Jesus satisfied the demands of perfect character of God, which is both just and merciful.  Only in him does God’s justice balance his mercy.  

LESSON of Jesus:  He is the expected lamb of God.  He is the only one who covers sin and saves!

GOLD bead (or sky blue) – Jesus is the only way to God in heaven where the streets are gold!     

PRAYING HANDS – if we pray to God, confess our sins, and choose to accept Jesus as the sacrifice in our place; he will forgive us and send his Holy Spirit to live in us. Then we live daily to please him: praying, worshipping, reading the Bible, fellowshipping with other believers, and sharing the good news of forgiveness through him.

LESSON of the praying hands:  we must all personally decide what we believe, and if we will accept Jesus sacrifice in our place and be saved.

May the Lord bless and anoint you as you proclaim his Good News through the Path of the Prophets bracelet!

Edition of 2021

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Sahar’s Testimony, No Fear in Love

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I was born and raised in a Muslim home in Saudi Arabia and speak both English and Arabic. The Arabic language is very fascinating, and Arab people are very proud of the tongue of the Arabs. Muslims also believe it’s a heavenly language, for Allah speaks in Arabic, that’s why it’s sacred to them. Also, it’s written from right to left. There is a famous Arabic saying: “The beauty of man lies in the eloquence of his tongue.”

I have three sisters and two brothers. I am the youngest among my sisters, and I was daddy’s little girl. We used to spend a lot of time together as a family, playing games, going to the beach, reading books. Being privileged to grow up in a loving family, I had a wonderful childhood until my father passed away when I was seven. The death of my dad was so hard on me; I didn’t understand what “death” meant. When I asked my mom, “Where did my father go?” she replied, “He went on a long journey to God.”

I was angry with God not just because he took my dad away, but I believed he destroyed our loving family and took my joy away. After my father’s death, we moved to my maternal grandfather’s house. I thought a lot about God and wondered why God would take my dad away? I remember doubting whether God really existed, and one night I asked him, “If you are there somewhere, help me wake up at 9:00 AM”. And I did! For the first time I though God might truly be real.

My mom’s family are very strict Muslims, while my father wasn’t at all. Let me give you a few examples: I was fully covered at the age of seven, I had a curfew to leave the house, I couldn’t even order food by phone. My father was a sweet loving man, who valued women. It was very hard to adjust to this new environment, the loss of my father and the harsh teachings of Islam were also very hard to tolerate.

I worked so hard in school and when I was nine, I came home excited that I got very good grades. My mom was so happy and proud of me. I went to one of my uncles to show him my certificate, how great my grades were, and he told me, “That’s not what matters, you will get married someday and you will stay home at your husband’s house. Being a good woman to your husband is what matters”. He, too, broke my heart and shattered my joy! I took it as a confrontational situation and became angry and aggressive.

I worked hard to prove myself and be someone. My dream was to leave Saudi and find the freedom I deserved as a woman, I wanted a better education, the educational system in Saudi is so bad for women. Men has better teachers and better schools. I even wished if that I weren’t a woman.

Finally, that day came in 2006. I took the opportunity to come to the United States as a part of a Saudi Government scholarship program to leave behind the obvious challenges and narrow perspectives that women face in Saudi, and to obtain a higher quality of education.

Leaving Saudi, was like a dream to me. I felt like a prisoner leaving a jail and life had just begun. I was desperate for freedom from depression and the hopeless life I had! Culturally, I struggled to find Halal meat (which is similar to kosher where animals are killed the Islamic way) . But the most moving cultural transformation I underwent was finally deciding to take off my headscarf in 2009 and to dress in the American style. The transformation was very tough. In Islam, the point of wearing the headscarf is to be “modest”, and the way I dressed after I took my headscarf off was considered very modest in American culture.

I still didn’t feel free though. I knew there was something missing in my life; but I didn’t know what it was and how to fulfill that need, I was afraid of God, afraid of death, afraid of hell. I read many books: “self- improvement” books, books about wisdom and famous sayings about successful and powerful people.

I also dated all kinds of crazy controlling Muslim men. Well, that didn’t last for a long time! I knew they didn’t value me as a woman, and they would never let me be the successful woman I wanted to be. I was longing for a wise man who knew my worth and would encourage me to accomplish something in life.

A few years earlier I had met a Christian lady named Cynthia on campus. She was like a glimmer of light in my life, pointing me to the truth. We became very close friends. We tutored each other in Arabic and English. Soon she started sharing her faith in Christ with me. I went to church with her many times, but I didn’t really understand the idea of salvation since in Islam, Jesus is a prophet not God.

I graduated in 2011 from CSU, Chico with my degree in (MIS), Management and Information systems. and I began looking for a job in the US. After tasting the freedom in America, I didn’t want to go back to my old life in Saudi. Cynthia offered me an internship at her father’s company in Boulder, CO. She also arranged for me to live at Horizons International, an international student center, which is also a ministry to Muslims. I moved there in October of 2011, where I met Christian believers from a Muslim background, and they actually believed Jesus is God.

It was shocking for me to see people from different Arab countries leaving Islam and becoming Christians. They shared their testimonies with me, and I was amazed about God’s work in their lives. This made me more openminded to ask questions and learn more about Christianity. One time I was invited to a Bible study at one of the Muslim convert‘s homes, and I loved that day. It was like heaven to me. They started their meeting with prayer requests, and then they prayed for each other genuinely. The love I experienced there touched my heart. We don’t have love like that in Islam.

Out of curiosity I opened a Bible, and I began reading about the resurrection. The Bible said: “At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven” (Matthew 22:23-33). This description of heaven was lovely and holy to me.

The Islamic concept of heaven was totally different. It is totally unholy. Heaven in Islam is basically just for men; supposedly there will be 72 virgin women that the men can enjoy, and rivers of wine. If a woman made it to heaven, she will be one of the 72 virgins he has, and Islam teaches most women are going to hell because women are evil and make men sin!

The heaven I wanted to go to, is the one TRUE heaven. My spirit was happy with the eternity Christians looked forward to; but even so, my mind was telling me “You are Muslim, and it is better to die a Muslim.” The three months I spent at Horizons International passed by very fast, and I moved back to California. I realized I missed my time with those “crazy” Christians, they were very nice people, but I believed they were worshiping a man.

Everything they shared with me started coming back in my mind. I started questioning my faith in Islam and I watched a lot of testimonies of people leaving Islam and becoming Christians through dreams, visions, and from reading the Bible. I was thinking to myself, “This God is really alive, the God I worship is far, distant and never talked to me!”

I left Islam and started looking for the One and Only living God. I felt empty and purposeless; life was meaningless, I didn’t know God and why I was here on this Earth. I remember Christians kept telling me “Jesus loves you”, I didn’t know what that meant and why would He love me? I decided to figure out more about this Jesus who loves me. I started going to two services, Arabic and English churches every week. I started reading the Bible to see who Jesus really is, and what he said about himself. Then I came to a conclusion that Jesus was just a human like me, he wasn’t God!

However, soon after, I called my friend Cynthia to share with her that I left Islam and I was reading the Bible to learn more about Christianity. She introduced me to one of her friends, and I asked him; “Why do you worship Jesus as God?”

It appeared to me at the time, that Jesus was just a human being like you and me. If you tell me he is only a prophet, I will be a Christian right now, because I loved Jesus’ teaching. He explained to me that Jesus has two natures, a Godly nature and a human nature. If Jesus wasn’t God, there is no point in Christianity. No man can save us, only God. We are all sinners and need a Savior, Jesus saves us from our sin by dying on the cross and raising again. Sin is something we are born with, because sin entered the world through one man, Adam. Sin leads to death; and so death passed upon all men, for all have sinned and fall short of a perfect and Holy God.

I told him, “OK! If God wants to save you he can saves us just like that! Why would God be a baby? And then people killed God? That makes no sense to me!”

Then he, Nabeel Qureshi, gave me an example. He said: “Just imagine yourself dressing up to go to a very important meeting, and you see your kid is falling in a hole. Would you go help him?” I replied, “Of course!” He asked me, “Why?” I said, “Because I love the child!” He asked me, “Would you send somebody to help him since you are already dressed up?” I said, “No, I would go myself.” He told me, “That’s what Jesus did!”

I loved his analogy; I couldn’t say anything after that. He also told me, If you are a sinner and you are willing to do that for your child, how much more God will do for you?

I went home, and started reading the Bible again. This time I was looking for God’s love. I was desperate for His love for me. I lifted my eyes up and prayed to Jesus for the first time. I said, “Jesus, if you are God, please show me something.”

I went back to my Bible and I read, “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” I John 4:18. As soon as I read this verse, all the fear I had melted away. The Presence of God was so powerful in the room, I even though he was there with me. I thought he was behind me. I turned back , I didn’t see Him physically, but I knew He answered me. After a six-year journey, I gave my heart and life to the Lord Jesus in July of 2012.

I finally realized that Jesus is God. The love of the Lord Jesus captivates my heart, and I am no longer who I was. In Islam, God was distant, but in Christianity, He is loving, always with me and His spirit now lives in me. Jesus’ love came to me, and I felt His power, which gave me joy and peace. I had never experienced this before! Jesus died in my place for my sin, was buried, and rose again the 3rd day! He conquered the grave and gave me a new life through The Holy Spirit who dwells in me and gives me a new heart and a new Identity. The Bible says: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23

I didn’t know that the God I was angry with (for a long time ) was my Heavenly Father and every good gift I have comes from His hand. It was Jesus I was searching for. The Lord Jesus is everything I need. He gives me HOPE in life and continues to transform me. I no longer need to work hard to prove myself. Jesus already died in my place to redeem me. He paid it all!

I know now I am a daughter of God the most high! I have more joy than I have ever thought possible, and I know my future is safe in His hands. Even though I had strong Islamic values, and Islam was deeply ingrained in me and my thinking, now by the grace of God, I am set free from my past.

I am no longer afraid of, God, dying or hell. I know I am going to go to heaven. I am not one of the women Islam said are going to hell. I am a “new creation” in Christ. The Bible says: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is (or she is) a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. I am entering a new dimension of experience and understanding, with new horizons to explore. The Lord is leading in a totally new direction. I AM FREE!

Sahar, 2014

Note: For security, some names and some images have been changed.

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Encouragement from Glass Beach

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Glass beach in Northern California used to be a dump. For about a hundred years, trash from the neighboring city was dropped over the cliff into the sea at this spot. Unwanted. But decades of waves beat the broken glass here. Slowly, slowly, it became smooth and beautiful. Now there is no sand there because the shore is covered with multicolored glass pieces which shine in the water and in the light.

Many people feel that because of wrong they have done or abuses they have suffered, they are of little value. They feel like trash thrown over a cliff. But God can change that. He loves all of us. If we let him, he will turn our hurts and mistakes into something beautiful. We will sparkle and shine!

Lesson on Confusing Muslim Marriages

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People from Western culture tend to think of marriage in a binary way: either you are married or not. But in Islam it is not always so clear. In this video lesson, Dr. C and George S discuss the varieties of Muslim marriages which are unexpected, and so are confusing to people from the West. They also give examples to show that all these forms of marriage are still going on today.

Slavery in Islam

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Is Islam really the religion of racial equality? What is its teaching on slavery? George from Sudan has studied the Islamic documents in Arabic, his native language. In this video he shares with us the principles of Islam on slavery and race, with examples of practices extending into the present day.

Former Muslim Learns Christmas Symbols

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Christian from Muslim creates videos for Muslims learning about the Christian faith, and Christians who love them: short answers, testimonies, full lessons with study guides, and reality scenes from the life of a formerly Muslim new Christian.

The Meaning of Christmas Lights and Trees

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Christian from Muslim creates videos for Muslims learning about the Christian faith, and Christians who love them: short answers, testimonies, full lessons with study guides, and reality scenes from the life of a formerly Muslim new Christian.

Lesson on Should Christians Marry Muslims?

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Summary and Notes: 

Quick Summary: This program shares thoughts on the intermarriage of Christians and Muslims. It draws on the experience of Christians from Muslim countries, former Muslims, and Christians who have married Muslims. Some of the segments were filmed live at a wedding, so you will hear joyous outbursts in the background.

Rather than a teaching session, the video lesson is comprised of several interviews. Because material covered this way is usually not complete or organized, the study guide provides additional information. Besides reviewing the speakers’ content, it includes more examples and testimonies from Christians who married Muslims, a list of questions for Western women considering marrying Muslim men, and a printable testimony tract that you can give to a woman considering marrying a Muslim. 

Notes:

  1. The people in the examples are known to us personally. Most names have been changed.
  2. See also study guides and Lessons on Confusing Muslim Marriages, and Islam and Women.

Why Christians Should Not Marry Muslims with George Saieg

In our training we like to emphasize the relationship between Principles and Practices of Islam and Christianity.

George Saieg is an expert in Islam from a Muslim country. He has studied the Islamic documents in Arabic and so knows the principles. And from living in an Islamic society he has seen the practices that fit with them. In this video segment he shares with us some of his ideas of why a Christian shouldn’t marry a Muslim. 

Islam does not allow Muslim women to marry Christian men, if they do, Islamic law is harsh with them unless the man converts (more on this in our Lesson on Confusing Muslim Marriages). The main justification for this is the consideration that a Muslim women should not be under the power of an infidel. Also, there is the concern that the children are not as clearly on track to be Muslim. And financially, this means that the dowry, or maher, would pass out of the Muslim community.

Islam allows for Muslim men to marry Christian, Jewish or Muslim women. Because of this, usually the situation that arises is that of a Christian woman being tempted to marry a Muslim man. In the West, this is usually a willing conversion. 

George tells us that the Bible says Christians should not be united to unbelievers (II Corinthians 6:14). Marriage is certainly a form of being bound, or “yoked.” 

Saieg also draws our attention to the status of women in Islam as a practical reason that a Christian woman should not act upon the temptation to marry a Muslim. He gives us are two of the many examples:

  1. the way women are described as a possession in Islam
  2. and the fact that according to the Prophet Mohammed, most of the people in hell are women 

On a side note, Saieg says English translations of the Quran are soft, and that Western women would never marry a Muslim if they could read the Quran in Arabic.

Example of a Christian who Married a Muslim, Saieg’s cousin: 

As a practical example, Saieg cites the case of his own cousin who married a Muslim man. At first the man assured her that she would be able to practice her Christian faith freely; however as time went on he continued to pressure her more and more to become a Muslim. (This is a situation commonly reported by Christian women marrying Muslims to him and Dr. Cynthia.)

Example of American woman held in Iran: 

For a way to make the risks of a Western woman marrying a Muslim man real, Saieg suggests that any woman considering marrying a Muslim watch the film Not Without My Daughter. This film tells the true story of the escape of Betty Mahmoody and her daughter Mahtob from a situation of oppression in Iran. Although it is the story of one woman and her daughter, this film starring Academy Award winner Sally Field, captures the situation of many women in Islam, especially those from the West. 

Betty’s situation is an example of how the human rights principles in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (United Nations 1948), are often violated against women, even when agreed on by their government.

Why Ada Resisted Marrying a Muslim

The video introduces us to Ada. Ada was stationed in the Middle East while in the American military. There, she met Muslim men who were attractive and as she says, “tall, dark, and handsome.” They were also very friendly and flattering to her. She understands why American women might want to marry one. 

However, she shares with us in this video segment why she wouldn’t marry a Muslim. Her concerns are based on the difference in the religions’ teachings, following what is true, and potential problems. 

Ada draws attention to the loving approach to others that Christians are taught to have and how this teaching is lacking in Islam. Islam, she says, is false teaching. 

Ada knows that in divorce in Islam, the father retains ultimate control of the children. She reflects on how sad it would be to lose one’s children, especially to someone who would teach them a different basis for life than we have in Christianity. She also reminds us that the Bible teaches we should not be unequally joined to unbelievers, which would be the case if a Christian marries a Muslim. (I Corinthians 13:4-8,13; Matthew 7:15, 16; II Corinthians 6:14)

Christian and Muslim Marriages with Dr. Cynthia and Pastor Ayman Armanious 

Dr. Ayman Armanious is a PhD from Egypt who immigrated to America a few years ago and now leads an Arabic-speaking church here. His background puts him in the position to know what the Arabic sources say about Islam and marriage. He has counseled people from Muslim and Christian backgrounds in marriage and other issues, both in Egypt and America. He has experience with Christians marrying Muslims. In his experience this has not turned out well. He explains this and gives several examples to support his points. Dr. C adds cases she has seen.

Dr. C asks Ayman if he has seen differences between Muslim and Christian marriages.

Christian marriage is entirely different from Muslim marriage,” says Ayman.

Ayman tells us that for example, Muslim men can marry four women at once. Yet the Bible shows us that when God created people, he made only one man and woman for each other – Adam and Eve. 

“She’s not equal to a man,” Ayman says with feeling. “She’s not equal at all.”

He tells us that the Muslim wife must obey her husband. She is his servant and mainly to provide for his pleasure of one sort or another. In fact, you can see in the video how uncomfortable he is in telling us about the kinds of rights the husband has over his wife.

In Christianity, he tells us, men and women are equal. The Bible tells men to care for themselves as they do their own bodies. They should love their wives as Jesus loves the church and gave himself for it. (Ephesians 5:25-33)

If a man wants another wife, Ayman says, the Muslim does not need to tell or get permission from the first wife. For example, if a woman does not get pregnant after a year, this is a common excuse for divorce or getting another wife. Dr. Cynthia gives an example of a man who did not disclose his marriage.

Example of an Egyptian man in America who Hid that he was Married to commit Bigamy: 

Dr. C knew Abdul, an Egyptian man, and had met some of his children. Brother E had shared the gospel with him, without success. Subsequently, Mary, who was in ministry with Dr. C, told her that Abdul had proposed marriage to her Christian friend Cathy – but he didn’t tell her that he was already married! In other words, he planned to commit the American crime of bigamy.

Mary’s first conversation with Cathy went like this,

Mary: Doesn’t it bother you that his faith is so different than yours?

Cathy: No. He promises to respect my faith.

Mary: Does it bother you that he is already married?

Cathy: dead silence

Before the second conversation, Cathy confronted Abdul about his secret marriage and proposed bigamy. She then explained to Mary,

Cathy: Yes, Abdul is already married. He explained to me that his wife is the mother of his children, and he does not want to disgrace her by divorcing her. He will marry me in the mosque, where it is legal under Islamic law. I will be his “real wife.” 

Mary was appalled that even when Cathy knew the situation she would be willing to go ahead with it. She would be complicit in bigamy, or adultery, depending on how you look at it. And she will have no legal rights as a wife in America. 

Advice not followed: Follow-up adds more to Cathy’s story. Despite Mary’s council, Cathy went ahead with the marriage. The decision did not go well for her. Cathy stayed married to Abdul for about 6 years, the last two of which they were separated. Abdul became abusive to her. Much afraid of him, Cathy fled the state to escape. Finally she got a “divorce.”

Ayman says that it is common for Muslim men immigrating to the West to build a relationship with a woman from that country, hiding their previous family. They see nothing wrong with this because they are authorized by Islam to do this – they can have several wives. 

Often a Muslim man will assure a potential Christian bride that he will respect her religion.

Example of a Danish Woman who Married a Muslim Man: 

Ayman gives an example of a nominal Christian from Denmark. She was told by a Muslim that he honored her religion and would allow her to practice it. However, things happened in the relationship which did not fit with his promise: married in the mosque, she was tricked into saying the shahada, the Muslim creed of faith. She was also requested to pray in Arabic.

Later the Danish woman became a true Christian and wanted to be baptized. Her husband was not true to his word to respect her faith. He would not allow it. 

Ayman says this happens many times. 

Another Example of Being Tricked into saying Shahada: 

In the video lesson, Dr. C tells Ayman that once (on outreach in Europe) her son was surrounded by Muslims. They asked to repeat some words in Arabic. Unbeknown to him, it was the shahada. He was simply trying to say a few Arabic words; but the Muslims started rejoicing that he was converted.

(Note: Ayman and Dr. C are not saying that someone truly converts by repeating words they do not understand. Probably most Muslim authorities would agree. However, these are two instances where this did happen with average Muslims. It has also happened in history with mass conversions to Islam.)

Example of a Convert to Christianity who Married a Muslim Man: 

Also in the video, Dr. C gives the example of River, a Muslim woman she knows who became a Christian. During her university years as an immigrant to America, River started talking to Christians. As a result she began comparing Christianity and Islam. She then became convinced that Christianity was right and became a Christian. 

However, before she understood that Christians should not be unequally bound to unbelievers, her parents approached her with a marriage offer from a Muslim. He was nice and said that he would respect her Christian beliefs. River found this acceptable and married him. 

Over time, her husband became more and more religious. He became less and less tolerant of her faith and more and more imposing of Islam on her. It came to the point where he told her that she must return to Islam or he would divorce her. River chose Jesus. She became divorced and rejected rather than forsake her Lord.

Ayman concludes the video segment by explaining that if someone asks him if he would sacrifice himself for his wife he would – because Jesus sacrificed himself for us. 

This is the idea of Christian marriage,” he says.

Why a Christian Shouldn’t Marry a Muslim with Georges Houssney and Elias

Rev. Georges Houssney and Elias, who were raised in Muslim countries different from those of Saieg and Ayman, discuss why they believe a Christian shouldn’t marry a Muslim. They present for us their concerns, but advise that any Christian considering this step spend much time in consultation with a mature Christian advisor. 

Houssney and Elias admit that not everything they share applies to every case, and some intermarriages may be happy. But only if the couple are not devoutly religious. They give us spiritual and practical reasons against intermarriage – especially for Christian women.

Spiritual Reasons Against Intermarriage: 

Elias shares that a Christian shouldn’t marry a Muslim because of the lack of spiritual common ground they would have. This actually would apply in every case of true Christians and unbelievers of any background. In II Corinthians 6:14, they both remind us that the Bible says light and darkness do not have fellowship, and should not join together. 

A marriage relationship will be strained with such different backgrounds as Christianity and Islam. George agrees with Elias. He adds that they will not have the basis for problem-solving, because their outlooks are different. And they cannot pray together about their challenges. He has counselled many couples in this situation.

Elias says that without spiritual common ground life will be harder, and the soul thirstier.

Practical Reasons Against Intermarriage:

Christian women should be aware that they will face challenges they might not be expecting: 

First, a woman should be aware of is that in Islam, the father has priority in custody of the children. If separation or divorce happens, you would very likely lose your children to the Muslim family of your husband. Houssney says he knows of more than 10,000 cases where this happens. Often the husband takes the children out of the country, and the Christian wife never sees them again.

Even though before marriage he promises freedom, the Muslim husband may forbid the children going to church and may insist on the mosque.

Since the Quran gives a man the right to have 4 wives, whom he can divorce rather easily, it tends to put a man in the mindset of always checking out other women as possibilities. Why not? It is their right in Islam. Houssney has heard this from many women. For example, they find that their husband is going out with another woman. He may then divorce her, or simply marry the new one in addition to her.

Why would a Christian woman ever marry a Muslim man? George asks.

Elias says it could be simply attraction, without thinking about it and doing adequate research. 

Houssney recognizes that Muslim men can be attractive because compared to American men they are very romantic, and give generous gifts. It seems like they will do anything to gain the hand of their loved one in marriage. But in his large experience counseling around the Muslim world, this changes after marriage. 

Houssney strongly encourages that before taking such a significant step as marrying a Muslim, that a Christian get counseling from an experienced leader, and look deeply into what they might be facing.

Six More Examples of Christian-Muslim Intermarriage

Religious differences are the most important ones that couples of mixed Muslim/Christian background face. But whether or not one converts to the other’s faith, there are still substantial worldview and cultural differences to be faced. There are so many that they are beyond the scope of this program. 

However, we want you to be aware that issues like family structure, the place of women, finances, truthfulness, customs, and expectations need to be discussed in detail before any intercultural marriage is approached, whether or not the religion is the same.

Example of an American Christian Marrying a Muslim Overseas: 

As a 21 year old nominal Christian, Hope visited North Africa with her boyfriend. While there she was forced to marry him. In fact, she even had to say the shahada to be able to leave the country. Her husband was at first kind and loving, however, in the following years, she and her children suffered abuse at his hand. 

Now A strong Christian, Hope’s heart is burdened to warn Christians against marrying Muslims – or any other unbeliever. 

(For more of Mary’s story, see Appendix 1, after the study questions for this lesson.)

Example of an American Christian Man Marrying a Muslim Student:

William met a very beautiful woman who had recently converted from Islam to Christianity. Everywhere she went men chased her. She had started to be discipled as a Christian, but since they met soon after her conversion, her focus changed to romance. William had thought that since she was willing to go to church and conferences, he would be able to continue her discipleship on his own. 

However, after their marriage she soon dropped her interest in Christ. Instead, she focused on finances and differences in their cultures. After only a few weeks together she returned to her country and cut off communication with William. At one point she said she reverted to Islam.

When William was asked what he would say to a Christian man considering marrying a Muslim or recently converted Muslim woman, he said, “Under no circumstances!” and “Her family will not accept you.”

Example of an American Marrying a Muslim and living Overseas:

Rita is an American who married a Saudi she met in college and moved to his country. She has found it very difficult to transition between cultures and expectation. Through much effort she has managed to stay married. She hopes that her husband is a closet Christian, without his family knowing, but she is not convinced.

A few years ago she moved back to America because of problems in Saudi, and to assure an American education for her children. She has taught her children about the Bible, and some are following Jesus.

Example of a Nominal Christian who Married a Muslim and Converted: 

Wanda told us her story – of how she converted to Islam out of a nominal Catholic background when she married a Muslim man. Wanda moved with him to Turkey. Her father-in-law kept pressuring her deeper and deeper into Islam. But as she got into Islam, she had less and less peace in her life. 

Passing through life stress and panic attacks she came to the point she was willing to talk to a pastor. He told her that she could receive Jesus as her personal Savior. Although she was reluctant to do so because of her marriage to a Muslim, the Lord’s love and peace irresistibly drew her to him. His peace has sustained her through the distress she subsequently faced, as she has managed to stay married to her husband.

Example of a Christian who Married a Muslim that she Thought was a Christian:

Erika, a strong Christian from the Midwest says,

“We’ve been married 7 years. I was saved beforehand. He said he was a believer before we got married; but it was evident shortly after that though he believed in Jesus, he was not genuinely saved.  

But as we continued to pray and fast God did a work in his heart all on his own. My husband became a Christian. He was saved and baptized in the beginning of 2017(4 years after marriage). We got pregnant with our first baby the end of that year.

There is a lot of difficulty with his mother. We do not speak. She did not accept me because I was a Christian. I’ve tried 4 times to give grace and create a relationship; but it had become dangerous to the point of her threatening and trying to physically attack me for absolutely no reason. 

So at the moment my husband sees her on occasion alone. It is very hard as his mother has a great influence over him and it creates friction in the marriage. My father in law is very kind and they are separated, so we see him occasionally.”

Example of the Child of American who Married and Moved to a Muslim Country:

Several years ago, Dr. C met Rabab at Mary’s house and shared the gospel with her. Here is Rabab’s story:

While working in his country, Rabab’s mother met a wealthy Moroccan and married him. She moved to Morocco and accepted many of their values. Although Rabab was born in Morocco spoke English and looked and sounded American. 

She was beautiful and privileged. Yet Rabab did not have the privileges of an American girl. She was not granted a full education. She had imposed upon her and also absorbed Muslim concepts, including marriage.

Rabab’s father, as she says, “sold” her as a child bride to a Muslim man when she was age 14. The man was abusive. Rabab managed to come to America where she remarried twice and had three children. The third husband was also abusive so they divorced. Without much education, Rabab was then unable to get a decent job to support her children.

Still relatively young, Rabab married a fourth time – to a prosperous Arab Muslim physician. At the time of this writing, they are still married, but their marriage has been tumultuous. He alternates between abusing her both physically and mentally, then buying her very expensive gifts. In Islam he has the right to keep her from leaving house. Even in America he uses it. Rabab is now a prisoner in her home. 

Mary continues to share the gospel with Rabab. However, because of Rabab’s upbringing and difficult experiences she seems incapable of accepting God’s love. Rabab says that she has experienced many religions. She believes all of them and believes none of them.

May the Lord touch her heart and open her mind to the truth.

Additional Considerations about Intermarriage

Islamic Laws Apply

Divorce: Legally in Islam a woman can be divorced by pronouncement. This quick and easy way supports impulsive behavior, and results in confusion and a lack of paper documentation. 

Custody: Children in Islam belong to the husband.  He can take them from the wife entirely after they have reached an age of about 8 years old.  Some of our friends have lost their children this way, and because of it others live in fear of marital break-up.

It is against Muslim law for a woman to take her children out of the country without the father’s permission. If he is unavailable, she must obtain consent from another man in his family. Wafa Sultan describes this in her book, “A God Who Hates.” She had to obtain the permission of a drunk in Syria because her husband was already in America.

Polygamy: Multiple marriages are being certified through mosques. It is not always clearly explained if other wives exist, that these marriages are not legal, and that these wives have no legal rights of marriage.  They are considered single, and even encouraged to apply to the state for aid when they become mothers, as “single mothers.”

Secrets: Middle Eastern men often come to America alone to study or to earn money to send home. Home – where unknown to anyone in America, they may already have a wife and children. Since Islam allows men four wives at once, in their mind they do nothing wrong by marrying an American in addition to another wife.

Rights: The Quran and hadith grant husbands other rights which could be unacceptable to Western wives. For example, the Muslim marriage contract entitles the man to not only exclusive, but also on-call sexual services from his wife, regardless of her activity or mood at the time. 

Likewise, we read and have observed, that a wife may not leave the house or allow anyone into it without her husband’s permission. In a rape case in the Middle East from several years ago a cleric condemned the victim saying, “Maybe she did not have a good reason for leaving the house.” 

Culture, Culture, Culture

Besides religion, we have seen many other inbred differences challenge Christian-Muslim marriage. To reduce these, experts advise thorough pre-nuptial discussion on every aspect of marriage.  Don’t assume they’re thinking what you’re thinking about anything. Learn the risks and the questions to ask.

Erika, from the example above says even if your spouse has converted from Islam, 

“There is difficulty shedding the culture of Islam. The men were raised to see women as second class citizens, and the woman were raised to believe as a Muslim woman they somehow are above a non-Islamic man. These can cause difficulties in marriage.”

Remember that not all Muslim cultures are the same. Some are very poor and with limited opportunities. In this case, they may be quieter and less confident than Americans. Others, for example from a wealthy family, or country like Kuwait, may be used to spending lavish amounts of money on portable goods like jewelry, purses, and perfume in a showy way that seems unnatural even to wealthy Americans. They may find it normal to run up debt.

Hospitality, hygiene, food, family, modesty, friendliness, socializing, work ethic, expectations and treatment of women, and many, many more cultural differences may emerge to challenge a marriage between a Christian and a Muslim.

Questionable Motives: 

For Green Card: As with other nationals, Muslim immigrants have been motivated to marry Western women to gain favorable immigration status.

Prosperity: Compared to most people in the world, Americans are well-educated and wealthy.

Example of Encouraging Marriage for Immigration: 

Brother E, is a Palestinian Christian man came to America to share the gospel with Muslims. He had a protracted immigration case. During this time Muslims repeatedly suggested to him brief marriage to an American woman, followed by divorce – solely as a solution to his immigration problem. 

For example, once he was playing basketball in a recreation area of a mosque with Muslim young men. When they heard that he was not yet a permanent resident, he was told,

“Marry an American woman. Then it’s easy to get a green card. You can divorce her after, no problem.”

Romance Differences:

Romantic practices of cultures differ, especially during the courting phases. These can present big challenges to Christian-Muslim relationships. As you can see in the above true stories, the greater romantic sentiments expressed by Muslim men tend to attract Christian women. 

Conversely, since American men are usually not so romantic, Muslim and former Muslim women who marry them can be strongly disappointed. They may see them as unromantic and dispassionate, when actually they are being sensible by Western standards. 

Second Class:

The Christian may feel “second class” when around the Muslim family. Part of this could be limited language and awkwardness in the culture; but part of it because Muslims are told in the Quran that,

“You are the best of all peoples ever raised up for mankind.” Quran 3:110

The verse goes on to contrast Muslims with Christians, saying it would have been better if they had been Muslims.

Dishonesty:

Rita from the example above says, 

“Muslim men feel fine about basic dishonesty. It’s part of the culture and Mohammed was the perfect example. Also it is spelled out in the Quran. Secondarily, non-M women can be treated in any manner (thought of as lower status, it’s okay to lie to them, use them etc.), so for him to wine and dine her, make her feel special, lie to her about beliefs (“our religions are almost the same”), is acceptable. 

Once they are married life usually changes and the truth comes out, whether it is intentional or unintentional. Some men think they are open, but when children are born then their ideology, fears for the children, desire to have the family that brings them honor rather than shame all come flowing out.”

Status: 

Marrying a Western man is said be a sign of success for a Muslim woman in the Arab Gulf – IF he converts to Islam.

Exotic Love: 

As you heard, Western women might be attracted to Muslim men because of their exotic appeal, but the reverse also applies. It has been said that Muslim men want the experience of a “white woman.” In fact blonde women have been one of the promises used to spur Muslim men on to conquest in the past and present. 

PAST: Islamic commentaries on Quran 9:49 explain that Mohammed was enticing men to jihad by offering blonde women captives. This was causing men to lust. One man objected to this tactic and was cursed.

Mohammed said, “Are you ready to attack the children of the blondes and make them mistresses and maids?” (An-Naisiburi 505; also Ibn Kathir & at-Tabari).

PRESENT: Yazidi women captured by ISIS and being sold as slaves, were valued higher for their blonde hair and blue eyes, because their bloodlines had not intermarried with Arabs.

Love Jihad: 

This is a recent term coined to express the underhanded and often violent way which non-Muslim women are forced into Islam through involuntary marriage in some countries.

KIDNAPPING EPIDEMIC: In Muslim countries with a Christian population, like Egypt and Pakistan there has been an epidemic of kidnappings of Christian young women for brides to spread Islam. These women are snatched from the streets, forced to convert, raped and forced to marry. Then their parents are sent notice that this has happened. It’s over, done deal. 

The Christian communities from these countries cry in woe at how they are losing their young women. The young women lose their families, their education, their freedom, and their virginity by almost unimaginable treachery. The parents lose their daughters and grandchildren, who are forced to be Muslims and into their culture. The young men are defrauded of potential Christian mates. We need to pray against this abuse of our Christian sisters overseas.

Example of Oppressive Coerced Marriages of Christian Women: 

In October, 2020, Arzoo Raja, a 13-year-old Christian girl in Pakistan, was kidnapped. She was forced to marry her 44 year old Muslim kidnapper and convert to Islam. In spite of widespread protests, Islamic courts upheld the marriage, saying that she had willing converted – despite the fact that she tried to run to her mother in court, but was restrained by her husband. Subsequently the parents lost their jobs and have been threatened.

Islam does not allow Muslim men to marry women that are considered polytheists, like Hindus. This causes interesting complications for Muslims and Hindus living in a country where they are mixed, like India.

(Note: Not directly related to the topic of Christian-Muslim marriage, but connected to Islam and interfaith marriage are forms of love jihad reported between Muslims and Hindus. They can be just as diabolical as love jihad against Christians.

In one type, the young woman is gradually drawn into a web of deceit which “accidentally” becomes physical. Videos are made of inappropriate behavior and used to blackmail the girl. Marriage is promised. Rape by other men is used to keep her compliant at various stages along the way. Once married she is trapped inside the house, as in Muslim law, and raped by family members if she rebels. She has no legal recourse because they claim she converted AFTER the marriage. This means she does not get the dowry Muslim girls do. Moreover, the Muslim husbands claim rights to the wife’s family property under Hindu law. Meanwhile, the husband repeats the trick with another woman.

Example of Love Jihad of a Muslim against a Hindu: 

In October of 2020, in Faridabad, India, 20 year-old Nikita Tomar was shot in the head and killed in front of her college, after a failed attempt to abduct her. The Muslim man who killed her had been her classmate since childhood. He had been repeatedly calling and harassing her to convert to Islam and marry him. Her assailant had even previously abducted her and been legally charged; but her family dropped the charges under pressure from his family, and a promise that he would stop harassing her. Sadly, he did not.)

Questions about Muslim-Christian Romance

QUESTION 1: Gary, a mature American Christian man asked us this question: “What do Christian women see in Muslim men that they don’t see in Christian men?”

ANSWERS from Christian women who married Muslim Men:

Besides those given in the video and discussion, we received these responses to our question: 

Hope says, “For me, at that time in my life as a college student, I think there was something mysterious that was intriguing about the attraction, including the dark and handsome aspect. There was that attention that I received that, looking back now was more representative of a controlling personality that appeared likeable at first, but not so later on with jealousy and control playing itself out.” 

Earica who married a Muslim friend of her brother says, “One of the things that attract a woman to an Arabic man, is not so much that he’s Muslim but that their culture is very hospitable and respectful toward strangers, And usually initially they’re respectful to non-Muslim woman. It’s something different than we’re used to because it’s showered and lavished upon us. So it draws you in. They’re very generous and open.”

Shaheen, leader of a ministry to Muslims, believes that one of the things attracting Christian women to marry Muslim men is the beautiful and colorful, yet modest clothing of countries like Pakistan. She now stages annual fashion shows for Christians to show them how they can dress with Asian flare without converting to Islam. 

QUESTION 2: Christian leaders often ask, “How do we keep Christians, especially young women, from getting romantically involved with Muslims?”

ANSWERS:  In schools, neighborhoods, and work: Christians are to be salt and light wherever they are. They are to share the gospel. Friendships between children of the same sex but different faiths could result in opportunities to love and share the good news with them. 

If your children are in friendships with those of other faiths, it is a great opportunity to discuss with your children the differences in the faiths, and why Christianity is true. This puts more obligation on parents than in past generations when most children in schools and neighborhoods were at least nominally Christian, or Jewish. A degree of “apologetics,” knowing why you believe what you believe, is now essential for all Christians.

As children mature into adolescence, churches and families should share information about other religions, and the risks of intermarriage. They should emphasize the importance of not being unequally yoked with unbelievers, and discourage any serious relationships of a romantic nature between Christians and unbelievers of any kind. Using what you learned from this lesson, and possibly discussing the study questions would be a good idea.

On outreaches and missions and other Christian activities: There are cases reported that Christian women on outreach are getting into relationships with Muslim men while sharing the gospel with them. Some have even married them and converted to Islam. 

This is a definite risk. Muslim men have pretended an interest in Christianity as a way of starting a relationship with an American woman. Christian men, on the other hand can get into trouble for talking to Muslim women and be confronted by angry Muslim men who misunderstand their intentions.

How can leaders prevent this:

Confront the risks in advance by training the team in what to expect and the risks of getting into relationships with Muslims and other unbelievers. (Perhaps using this lesson and study guide.)

Some leaders forbid any speaking to someone of the opposite sex on outreach or missions. We however realize that when distributing literature one will need to give it to people of both sexes. Brief conversations may then start. If brief and on topic, this could be OK.

If someone gets flirty with your team member, wants to get into deep conversation, or meet again to discuss Christianity, we advise that the team member passes the connection on to someone of that sex. They can tell the Muslim that it is their policy not to get involved beyond a few words.

One exception may be mature, older Christian women if they can speak to men as a mother.     Dr. C has found that this works with her and is of little risk. The status of elder woman allows her to share with women, and men – including imams. However, once again if the men get flirty or want to continue meeting, it is advisable to pass the connection on to a man.

When overseas, leaders should train the team on appropriate behavior for that country. They will need to decide where and when it is appropriate to push cultural boundaries to forward the gospel, including situations where men and women might connect. 

Learn to weigh risks vs. benefits of any Christian work (in fact it is a good idea for everything you do). Sharing the gospel carries a variety of risks. We must face them or we can’t obey the Great Commission. Yet we can reduce them as reasonably possible while still sharing the gospel.

Summary of Why Christian Women are Attracted to Muslim Men

Let’s summarize the answers presented by our experts and testimonies above, plus more from our experience with in this situation:

  • Physical attraction to their “tall, dark, and handsome” appearance
  • The strong factor of romance, and costly gifts, especially compared to Western men
  • The appeal of the exotic culture, food, faraway places, and intricate or colorful clothing
  • Simply the situation of the time and place of meeting
  • Forceful personality seen as pursuing
  • Affirmation: women considered overweight in Western culture are told that their curves are appreciated in Muslim cultures
  • Easy life: being told that they are honored and respected, not expected to balance home and work 
  • Motivation of immigration, prosperity, or spreading Islam making men persuasive

Can Talking About it Prevent Christians Marrying Muslims?

YES, It can! We shared with you the example of Cathy, who did not listen to warnings about marrying a Muslim man. But GOOD NEWS, sometimes advance warning does make a difference!

Example of an American Dissuaded from Marrying a Muslim: 

One day our team got a call from a devout Christian woman who had heard them speak at a church. She was very worried because her daughter Shelly. Shelly had met a Turkish man, planned to go to Turkey with him, and marry him. Shelly was not a believer, so she could not appeal to her on that basis. She asked us to meet with Shelly and discourage her decision.

Shelly, an attractive college student, kindly agreed to meet with Dr. C and Brother E. While sharing dinner, Shelly heard the gospel, as well as details about Islam and what happens to women married to Muslims. She told them that she would consider what they had said.

A few months later the mother reported the good news that her daughter had decided not to go to Turkey. Shelly was still not a believer, however. 

Fast forward over ten years. Dr. C was at a coffee house when an attractive woman with long and silky, golden brown hair came up to her. 

She said excitedly, “Do you remember me? I am Shelly! You met with me long ago when I was thinking of going to Turkey. Guess what? I didn’t! And a year ago I became a Christian! I am so excited about Jesus. I am studying the Bible, and tell everyone I meet about him!”

Praise God for that happy ending. May the Lord continue to strengthen her.

We hope that you too will try to discourage Christian-Muslim intermarriage.

Summary of Why Christians Should Not Marry Muslims

Here is a summary of the reasons from our speakers and study guide notes for why Christians, nominal or sincere, should not marry Muslims:

For Christian Women:

  1. Christians should not be tied, or “yoked” to unbelievers. You will have different worldviews and not have spiritual fellowship. If you knowingly do this, you will be disobeying the Bible. You will be asking for trouble in your life. (II Corinthians 6:14)
  2. Muslims are encouraged to marry Christians to spread Islam, and might not be sincere
    • for immigration status
    • for security and prosperity of life in the West
    • desire for a “white” woman
  3. Flattery often changes to battery after marriage (Quran 4:34)
  4. The children belong to Islam and the father. This means that:
    • As the head of the household, he can make them Muslims
    • In the case of divorce, Islamic law grants them to him
    • The mother-in-law or other wife will have charge of the children of the divorced woman and might not care for them
    • He may take them and leave the country
  5. Promises of religious tolerance often changes after marriage
    • Husbands frequently become more religious as they age
    • They start pressuring the Christian woman to convert
  6. You might become Muslim
    • Surrounded by Muslim culture, you might forget the blessings and reasons for believing in Jesus as your savior
    • You might be tricked into repeating words which would make you Muslim
  7. Polygamy 
    • Because it is his right in Islam, your husband can practice this whether or not he promises you otherwise
    • Since in Islam he can do this with or without your knowledge, you will never be sure if he has another family
    • This creates the tendency for the man to always be looking for another or “better” woman, even if he can only have one
  8. Easy divorce, since marriage is a contract, not a sacrament, as it is in Christianity
    • Can be done verbally or in mosque, which is not legal in America
    • He can marry someone else overseas even before your divorce is final
  9. Whether or not you believe in Islam, you may be subjected to living according to Islam’s rules. These are not easy for women:
    • You are considered property
    • You can be beaten, forbidden to leave the house, forbidden to have anyone in the house, forced to cover your body, not celebrate birthdays of your children, not keep family photos, fast when the culture does, drop everything when your husband calls for sexual attention, etc.
    • Religious rights must be performed in Arabic, which you do not understand
  10. Cultural differences may make it difficult for his family to accept you, and you might feel excluded or disliked. 
    • You and your children may be treated as “second class
    • Eventually these feelings may be transferred to your husband, making him look down on you.
  11. You may end up living in fear that someone may be coming to kill you or your spouse.

For Christian Men:

  1. Christians should not be tied, or “yoked” to unbelievers. You will have different worldviews and not have spiritual fellowship. If you knowingly do this, you will be disobeying the Bible. You will be asking for trouble in your life. (II Corinthians 6:14)
  2. According to Muslim law, it is not legal for you to marry a Muslim woman. This means that either:
    • Your marriage must be kept secret from her family
    • You must convert
  3. Realize that if you do convert to Islam, if you leave Islam, you must be killed and your wife punished. At least one fatwa states this.
  4. If the woman that you marry converts to marry you, she might revert to Islam and leave you. If she does, 
    • She can declare that her marriage to you is invalid. She can return to her country where she is considered single, but you are married according to America.
    • Islamic law gives her and the Muslims custody of your children.
  5. Cultural differences may make it difficult for his family to accept you, and you might feel excluded or disliked. Eventually these negative feelings may be transferred to your wife, and she may despise you as well.
  6. Whether or not you believe in Islam, you may be subjected to living according to its rules:
    • These lifestyle will seem foreign to you and is not easy
    • Performing all the required religious rites required will likely be a drain on your strength and time, and make it more difficult for you to work in Western style to provide for your family
    • Religious rights must be performed in Arabic, which you do not understand
  7. You might become Muslim
    • Surrounded by Muslim culture, you might forget the blessings and reasons for believing in Jesus as your Savior
    • You might be tricked into repeating words which would make you Muslim
  8. If she remains Muslim, not only are you unequally yoked, but your marriage is considered invalid in Islam. 
    • At any time she can leave you with the children. The ummah, the community of Islam, will encourage her to do this all along and will support her when she does. 
    • If you are in a Muslim country, or if she returns to one, she may consider herself unmarried and free to remarry, while you are still bound in marriage to her under American law. In that way, Islam allows polygamy for women.
  9. You may end up living in fear that someone may be coming to kill you or your spouse.

Five Questions for Women Considering Marrying Muslim Men

We’ve seen serious problems with Christian or Western-Muslim marriage. Here are five questions which could protect a hopeful bride from hellish situations.

1. Are you already married?  

It seems almost too crazy to be true, but you must ask.  In the past, most people in America were from there or assimilated.  They knew that marrying when you already had a wife was bigamy – a serious crime, and wrong. There was no need to ask. 

For bigamy our federal government used to hunt men from state to state. But bigamy is happening in America now with increased frequency and decreased government intervention, and with the approval and at times promotion of mosques.

2. Do you accept American laws and customs when they conflict with Islamic Law?

This is especially important regarding child custody and women’s rights. In America a woman still has hope of this, but not overseas.

3. Can I practice my non-Islamic faith, and to what extent?  

No doubt the answer will be “yes” if you are of Christian or Jewish background.  Other faiths are usually considered idolaters and totally unacceptable to Muslims.  

You may think that your fiancé is open, yet be aware that although agreeable before marriage, but experiences have shown us that things change. Muslim men tend to get more religious as they get older. 

4. What is your immigration status? 

It is not uncommon to hear marriage being used as a solution to immigration problems. When marriage is seen as primarily as a contract, why not use it as a stepping stone into America… or for other benefits?

5. Do you believe in temporary marriage? and Will this be a temporary marriage?

Officially, temporary marriage has mutually agreed upon length and pre-set payment determined in advance.  The time can range from an hour to years.  A man’s other wife/wives need not be informed of the arrangement. 

Marriage may also be used as a temporary stepping stone by the Muslim man without the woman being aware that it is temporary.

(Note: Find more about Temporary Marriage, and other types of marriage, not had in Christianity in our video and study guide on Confusing Muslim Marriages.)

Scripture References for this Lesson:

Bible References:

  • II Corinthians 5:17 & 6:14-16
  • I Corinthians 13:4-8,13
  • Matthew 7:15,16 
  • Ephesians 5:28,29

Islamic References:

  • Women are possessions – Quran 2:223 & 3:14 
  • Polygamy – Quran 4:3    
  • Ok to marry Christian women – Quran 5:5 
  • Wife beating – Quran 4:34
  • Muslims are the best of all peoples – Quran 3:110
  • Fighting for blondes – Quran 9:49 commentary An-Naisiburi 505, Dar Al-Kotob Al-Ilmiyah, Beirut, Lebanon, p. 140; also At-Tabari and Ibn Kathir
  • Most in hell are women – Sahih Al Bukhari 7:124; 1052

(Note: More extensive Islamic references, including those regarding marriage are given at the end of the study guide for the Lesson on Islam and Women.)

Study Questions:

  1. What are the main scriptural references that were used by the speakers in this video lesson?
    • Review what they say and how it applies to Christians marrying Muslims.
    • Can you think of other Bible references that would apply?
  2. According to Muslim law, 
    • women of which religions are Muslim men allowed to marry?
    • men of which religion are Muslim women permitted to marry?
    • what religions are neither Muslim men nor women to marry with?
  3. What are some of the things that attract Christian women to marry Muslim men. 
    • Try to name at least 5.
    • What can be done to resist these?
  4. What unexpected consequences might Christian women face after marrying Muslim or recently converted Muslim men?
  5. What unexpected consequences might Christian men face after marrying Muslim, or recently converted Muslim women?
  6. True or False:
    • If a Muslim man wants to marry more than one wife, he must first get permission of the prior wife or wives.
    • A Muslim man must inform his fiancé if the has another wife before he marries her.
    • A Muslim man can keep marriages secret.
    • Men and women in Islam have equal rights in marriage.
  7. What kinds of questions should a Western person (Christian or not) ask or investigate before marrying a Muslim?
    • Do you think similar questions might apply to some degree before marrying anyone from a very different background? 
  8. Do you feel that Christians should confront other Christians who are considering marrying a Muslim?
    • What example did the study guide give of where confrontation did NOT help?
    • What example did the study guide give of where confrontation DID help?
    • Considering those, what might you say to a Christian or Western
      • woman who was considering marrying a Muslim man?
      • man wanting to marry a Muslim woman?
  9. If you are a Christian, would you consider marrying a Muslim? Why or Why not?
    • If you are a Muslim, would you consider marrying a Christian? Why or why not?
  10. Has watching this program affected the way you feel about marrying someone not of your faith background? Why or why not?
  11. If you are leading an outreach or mission trip to Muslims, 
    • What risks do you foresee with the sort of work you are planning?
    • What policies might you consider which would accomplish both the goals of your project, yet protect your team from romantic relationships with Muslims?

Appendix 1 Hope’s Testimony of Marrying a Muslim

Hope is a Christian who married a Muslim man. She gives her testimony in brief here, hoping that you might read it, and print it out to share with any woman you know who might be making a similar mistake.

Are you or someone you know in love with a Muslim man?  As a Christian American woman, I have been in your place. So, please open your eyes, mind and heart to what I have learned.

Just because he looks good, doesn’t mean he is. And just because he speaks sweet, kind and loving words to you, doesn’t mean he believes it. 

Just because he says it doesn’t matter if you’re a Christian and that you both really believe in the same God, don’t believe it! In fact, investigate whether it is true or not. (It’s not!)

Just because he brushes off questions about his faith, marriage and raising children, doesn’t mean ‘it will all work out’. While he may have accepted western life, he is still very much connected to his cultural and religious background. You cannot erase these things from your relationship and believe that they don’t really matter that much.

Even if he says that he admires your faith in God, he will dismantle what you believe and may attempt to bring you into his belief if you continue in this relationship. Later on, he may mock your Bible and discredit what it says.

But, you say, he loves me and treats me well. He cooks for me and is always a gentleman. You might even tell yourself that you never met an American man who treated you so well. And I would agree that the beginning seems like a great adventure dating a foreigner. However, the ending may not be what you imagined would happen. 

You might think, but all relationships have their problems. Yes, but a Christian will always be unequally yoked with a Muslim or non-believer. That’s why the Bible says,

Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness. And what communion has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14)

My romantic relationship with a man from North Africa led me to his country where I went to jail, was forced to marry him after being pressured to say the Shahada (Muslim prayer of acceptance), and live in a marriage filled with mental and emotional abuse that later affected my children. I was finally released from this marriage as he said he divorced me 3 times, which is part of the Islamic Sharia Law. 

There is much more to my story, but my burden now is to warn those who might find themselves in a similar situation.  Seek God’s plan for your relationship. He will show you the right one in His perfect timing!

Copyright by by ChristianfromMuslim.com, 2021.
Permission granted for personal and study group copying only.


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Lesson on Comparing God’s Character in Christianity and Islam

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Program Summary and Notes:

Quick Summary: Christianity and Islam are based on their understandings of the character of God or Allah. To understand how the faiths are the same and different, it is very important to know how they see God’s character.

In the video lesson, guests Bob Siegel and James Anderson join Dr. Cynthia to compare God’s character versus Allah’s, and God in the Old and New Testaments. It includes two reality segments from everyday life that connect with the topic.

This study guide gives more details, yet focuses on only a few important characteristics and differences between God and Allah. More on their names and characteristics is in the Appendices after the Study Questions.

Reality – a quick Visit to Boston and a Graveyard

The video lesson starts with a visit to Boston, Massachusetts, USA with Dr. Cynthia and some friends. 

This region of the United States was active in bringing freedom to America. Freedoms to worship, to express ourselves, and work as we choose are tremendous blessings. Because of its great freedoms, for centuries people have been coming to all over the world to America. In the last 30 years many of these have been from Muslim countries. 

Even greater than the freedom a country can give is our freedom in Christ. Through him, we can be free from sin and its destructive forces in our lives. (Romans 8:2)

Today, we visit the Old Burying Ground on the edge of Boston. Look at the old tombstones, with dates from long ago. Right next to this old graveyard we hear the busy noise of traffic driving past, within feet of the graves. Someday not many years in the future, those in a hurry now will also be asleep in the dust. 

Visiting a graveyard reminds us that no matter how good we may feel at the moment, there will come a day when we do not walk upon the earth but lie beneath it. Jesus told us that he will come again for those who believe in him and take us to our heavenly home. 

My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.  John 14:2, 3

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.  I Thessalonians 4:16-18

We can count on this because our God is faithful to his promises!

The Character of God in Christianity vs. Islam

God and Allah are both seen as all-powerful beings, but they are not identical. There are areas of both agreement and disagreement in the ways God and Allah are described in their respective holy books. 

AGREEMENT: Muslims and Christians agree on some of the characteristics of God/Allah. We agree that there is a single Creator God. We agree that God is all powerful, merciful, compassionate, and that he sent prophets to warn people not to sin, and to worship God only. 

We agree that God is over all, including humans and angels. He will hold us accountable for what we do on earth and has ordained a Day of Judgement. We agree that Jesus is the Messiah and the Word of God, although we disagree about what these terms mean.

DISAGREEMENT: Muslims and Christians have strong differences in our views of the character of God. 

The Name of God Controversy

The differences are so many and so strong that some Christians say God and Allah are totally different gods. True though this may be, telling it to Muslims directly burns a potential bridge. 

In Arabic, Allah is the word for Creator God, so even Arabic Christians pray to Allah. Similarly, English-speaking Christians use the pagan word God for Jehovah, the one true Creator. Other religions also use this English word for false ideas of God.

Some Christians have been taught by non-Arabic speaking Christians that it is wrong to use the word “Allah” in talking about God.  In our opinion, a rose by any other name is as sweet. THE MAIN THING IS TO KEEP THE MAIN THING THE MAIN THING. We want to preach the gospel to Muslims, not waste time arguing.

We prefer to take a positive approach. Our goal is to bring Muslims to Christ. We start with small truths that we agree on about God, such as that he is the Creator, and gradually reveal more truth until they come to understand the full gospel. 

An essential difference in the characteristics of God in Christianity and Islam is in the balance of Justice and Mercy. In Islam, God’s mercy can overcome his anger at our sins. When he wants to Allah can forgive with no penalty. In Christianity, God’s justice is equal in strength in his character to his mercy. The two must balance, as they do when he came to earth as Jesus and died in our place on the cross.

The Character of God in the Bible

Because understanding the character of God is so essential, in our presentation of the gospel to Muslims we dedicate the first page of our gospel booklet The Path of the Prophets to that topic. Here is what it says,

  • God is one. He is the Creator of everything. 
  • God reveals himself to us through creation, and the words and lives of his prophets.    
  • Through creation, we see that he is powerful, creative, and wise.  
  • The Prophets told us more about God and his way.  They told us that God is good!  
  • He is merciful and compassionate, perfect and just, loving and giving.  Every good thing in your life is a gift from God.  

Since there is one God, and he is good, we must find and follow his way.

Throughout the content of this gospel booklet, we come back to the character of God. Each of the characteristics we mention in the booklet are used to explain why the gospel is the gospel. 

GOD’S GOODNESS: The Path of the Prophets booklet begins with telling us that God is good. It is so very important to believe that God is good. When we clearly see that he is good we will be willing to trust him with our salvation and follow him every day.

The Bible tells us, 

Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love endures forever.  Psalm 118:1

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,who does not change like shifting shadows.  James 1:17

So many adjectives of wondrous characteristics apply to God, as well as a few special names.

GOD IS I AM:

God is Jehovah. The name of the independent, self-complete being. “I AM WHO I AM” is how God introduced himself to Moses. Our proper response to Him is fear and awe of the One who possesses all authority. (Exodus 3:13,14)

One discussion we constantly run into with Muslim apologists is whether or not Jesus claimed to be God. They like to say that Jesus did not claim to be God or the only Son of God. That is not true.

It is very important to understand the culture of the people that Jesus was speaking to in the New Testament. One way that Jesus presented himself to the Jews of his day was as the “I AM.” They clearly understood that he was claiming to be God. He used many other ways as well.

Jesus was not condemned to death for healing people and telling stories. Matthew, Mark, and Luke record that at his trial Jesus admitted under oath to be the Son of God. Blasphemy was the charge against him for which the religious leaders turned Jesus in to Rome for crucifixion. 

It is important to bring this to attention of people who say that Jesus did not claim to be God.

The Character of God in Islam

The character of God in Islam shares some characteristics with the God of the Bible; yet is very different. 

Characteristics of Allah that Muslims emphasize are: 

  • Oneness or “Tawhid” with absolutely no partners (no Son of God or trinity)
  • Merciful and Compassionate – is mentioned at the opening of nearly every surah, or chapter of the Quran.
  • Sovereign will over all
  • High and Distant
  • Judge of the Day of Judgement

Remember, our main goal at Christian from Muslim is to make mature Christians out of Muslims. We do not want to get caught in non-productive arguments. We could spend all day arguing with Muslims about their description of God, and still not get close to sharing the gospel. So we need to be strategic in our discussions with them, focusing on what is essential for them to understand and accept the gospel.

Nevertheless, we think you will find it an interesting exercise to examine the list of the 99 names of Allah in Islam and compare them to God’s names in Christianity (see Appendix 1 and Appendix 2). The 100th name of Allah, some Muslims say, is known only to the camel.

Dear friends, when you look at the list of the 99 names of Allah, do you notice any names of God that are missing? God is Love and God is Savior are two characteristics notably absent from Allah’s list, but are very important to Christians.

Brother E, the Arab evangelist who trained Dr. C in Muslim thinking, made T-shirts with those 99 names in Arabic – but he added a few more to show Muslims what they had left out, including Lamb of God, and Savior!

COMPARISON of God’s Characteristics in Christianity and Islam

It is not unusual to find Christianity and Islam using the same word, but with different meanings. For example, our understandings of heaven and hell, righteousness, and messiah. We find the same thing when discussing the character of God. Here we will compare some of the important characteristics and their differences: 

  • God’s Love
  • God’s Justice
  • God’s Greatness
  • God’s Way

#1 GOD’S LOVE

In Christianity, God’s love is one of the most outstanding features. Very rarely you will hear a Muslim saying this. If they do, it is because they live in the West and have absorbed it from Christians. 

Do not be fooled! Allah is NOT love. You may notice that in the list of the 99 names of Allah in the appendix that #47, al Wadud, is translated as the “the Loving One.” That is not how former Muslims describe Allah. In fact, Wafa Sultan, whom we interview in another lesson, says that Allah is “A God who Hates” and wrote a book documenting that.

Usually, Christians talking about God’s love in Arabic will usually say mohub. This is the word that you will find in the Arabic Bible. We asked a former Muslim from Saudi Arabia to explain the difference between wadud and mohub. Here is the response:

Arabic is a very complicated language. Wadud doesn’t exactly mean “God is love.” It is like “God is near and merciful.” Allah’s love and mercy are only for those who worship him – based on deeds. It is conditional. Jesus came for the world. He loves sinners but hates their sin. 

This is in keeping with how other former Muslims describe God’s love in Islam. 

QUESTION: Why is it important to know the difference in the words used for love?

ANSWER: So that:

  1. You will have an accurate picture of Allah in Islam: his love is conditional.
    • Say: “If you love Allah, then follow me, Allah will love you and forgive your sins. And Allah is oft-forgiving, most merciful… Allah does not love the disbelievers.”  Quran 3:31, 32
  2. You will be able to explain to Muslims that the God of the Bible truly loves. He loves us unconditionally, and died to save the world while we could not care less about him:
    • God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

#2 GOD’S JUSTICE

As we discuss in the video lesson and mention above, the difference between God’s justice in Christianity and Allah’s justice in Islam is one of the biggest differences between the two faiths. 

In the list of the Muslim names of Allah, #29 says he is Just. Although Islam claims this, it is not strong enough in his character that it requires a penalty for sin, what Islam calls hataiya. 

In Islam there is a hadith that says, “Allah’s mercy overcomes his wrath.” In practice this means that “Allah’s mercy overcomes his justice.” However, we know from the Bible that in God’s character his justice is equal to his mercy in strength.

We point out to Muslims that how God balances Justice and Mercy is most important difference between our two faiths. 

Here are two analogies of justice and forgiveness:

Example 1, A mouthy toddler. This kind of forgiveness would be like forgiving a child who had said something disrespectful, but not done any permanent damage. In Islam Allah can simply forgive if he has a mind to.

Example 2, A destructive teenager. What if the child does serious damage? What if an angry teen burns down a house? Will the judge say, “Oh, that’s OK. I forgive you. Just don’t do it again.”  

How would the homeowner feel about that? Where would he live? There is a debt and that needs to be paid, both financially, and personally. But if the father pays to rebuild the house, and if the teen does time in juvenile hall learning how to respect property, that would be just.

Allah’s forgiveness is like the first example. God’s justice is like the second. God forgives when asked, but justice must be done.

Muslims think that Allah can just forgive his followers because he cares. We tell them that if we were making up a religion, we would probably say that too. But God is not like that. How do we know? Because he told us in his word, and through the lives of his followers since the time of Adam.

(Note: See also the study guide, video tract, and Lesson on the Gospel for Muslims: The Path of the Prophets for more details on how to explain this to Muslims.) 

God’s love/mercy is strong, but it cannot overcome his justice. That is why he came to earth once to die for our sins. He took our place in human form.

A Muslim Question – why would God make Jesus die for us?

QUESTION: Muslims are quick to point out that it would be unfair to make Jesus, whom they say was perfect, die for the sins of others. They say it is unjust. How do we answer that?

ANSWER: If Jesus were a mere human, they would be right. It would not be fair to have a good prophet suffer for someone else. Not to mention that he would not be able to make up for the evil deeds of absolutely everyone.

The reason that the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins works in ONLY because he is GOD. He did not commit the sins, and he told us not to do them. Yet since he made the world, like a loving father he took responsibility for its wrongs. 

So, in a unique way, Jesus’ death was God suffering with us. He took the blame for everything his creatures did. And no one can say to God, “You don’t know what it’s like down here. If you did you would be more understanding!” 

God did walk down here. He was mistreated in almost every way imaginable. He understands how we suffer. And so, he is qualified to be:

  • fittingly associated with his creatures in suffering Hebrews 2:10,11
  • both just and the one who justifies Romans 3:26
  • our sympathetic high priest Hebrews 4:15, & 7:25
  • the one who brings together heaven and earth Colossians 1:20

#3 GOD’S GREATNESS

Both Christians and Muslims believe that “God is Great,” but we mean it and express it differently.

Examples of Proclaiming that GOD is GREAT in ISLAM:

General Example: One of the things that Muslims are inclined to shout out about Allah, literally when committing acts of terror, is Allahu Akbar. This Arabic phrase is roughly translated, “God is Great,” or more literally, “Allah is Greater!” If you have seen or read reports of Muslim acts of terror, such as those of 9/11 you will have heard this.

Specific Example: Once Dr. C attended a regional Muslim convention on a prominent American university campus where she had been doing outreach for over a year. She was the lone Christian in a group of about 300 Muslims. A Muslim woman had been appointed to chaperon her and sit with her so that she would not be able to talk to any Muslims present. Dr. C sat quietly.

Although she had said or done nothing offensive, simply knowing that a Christian was in their midst riled the attendees. The speaker was amazing – and not in a good way. An Islamic scholar, he worked up the crowd in a way that Dr. C had never seen before, and hopes to never again. 

He started out speaking calmly, but ever increased the pace and intensity of his delivery. He spoke louder and louder and began to mention the early days of Islam when Muslims were persecuted. When he had worked the crowd into an indignant and passionate frenzy, he started waving his arm, yelling and pointing. He screamed,

“And today, we have Christians here among us, against us as in the early days of Islam!”

The audience became frenetic. Someone yelled, “Takbir!” and the crowd answered loudly in unison, 

Allahu Akbar!  Takbir!  Allahu Akbar! Takbir!  Allahu Akbar!

Over and over they yelled this as a mob, incensed at the presence of a Christian in their presence and expressing hostile anger!

Praise God, they did not attack Dr. C physically. But the violence of their zeal was unsettling and unforgettable. Dr. C then knew that if this were Pakistan, she would be dead.

May the Lord have special mercy on Christians who daily face persecution under the proclamation of the greatness of the Allah of Islam, especially in regions where, unhampered by Western values, they are tortured and killed.

(Note: “Allah he greater” is the word for word translation, in the way Arabs express things without the verb “is.” By an ironic twist, the word akbar in Arabic is “mouse” in Hebrew. So, if a Hebrew speaker hears them yelling Allahu akbar, to them is sounds like, “Allah is a mouse!”)

 Examples of Proclaiming that GOD is GREAT in CHRISTIANITY: 

General Example: In contrast, when Christians pray or sing, “God is Great!” it is in worship. By it we recognize that God is more powerful than our problems – and more powerful than the gates of hell, which try to stop his kingdom from moving forward (Matthew 16:18). We are not proclaiming that he is violently imposing his will on unbelievers.

Specific Example: Once while in a mosque in a major city, an Imam was trying to convert Dr. C. He said many things against the Bible, and tried to pull Jesus down from his lofty position. Dr. C had been patient for a long time, behaving modestly because this mosque was extremely conservative. The Imam misunderstood her patience and was convinced that she was going to become a Muslim.

Then, the Imam started chanting from the Quran in Arabic that God did not have a son. In response, Dr. C had had enough! Filled with the Holy Spirit, she started singing loudly, and drowned out his falsehood. She sang in Spanish a song that she had sung daily as she stepped onto the port in Spain. It encouraged her to share the gospel with Muslims by remembering – God is Great!

Proclamaré mi Dios es grande.
Te exaltaré tu eres santo
Y te daré la gloria y honra
Yo te adoro y me postro ante ti.

I proclaim my God is Great!
I will exalt You for you are holy.
I will give you the glory and honor.
I adore you, and I bow myself before you.

The imam, who had used Arabic as an incantation, did not understand the words of the Spanish song; but he surely understood the message:

The God of Christians is Great! He is not overcome by your falsehoods. This is how we proclaim him – with peace and joy, not with force!

#4 GOD’S WAY 

God’s way reflects God’s character. His character does not change, and it is peaceable.

God does not Change

“I the Lord do not change.”   Malachi 3:6

When talking to Muslims it is important to keep in mind that the Bible presents a God that does not change. (See also: Psalm 102:27, Hebrews 13:8)

In the Old Testament God’s people lived under law, and in the New Testament under grace; but in both they are saved through faith, based on blood sacrifice for their sins. 

The way of Allah of Islam is so different to the way of God in the Bible, that for Islam to be a true path of God, God’s character must have changed over time. This is especially true concerning sacrifices. 

Two excellent questions to ask Muslims are:

  1. If in both the Old and New Testaments God required blood sacrifice for sin, why is it absent from Islam?
  2. If God’s justice previously required sacrifice, how can he forgive without it in Islam?

These are especially important for those who have converted from a nominal Christian or Jewish background, and so might have a recollection of sacrifices in those faiths. They should be challenged to reconcile these differences. 

Muslim responses when we ask these questions are usually:

  • Initially surprise. They are focused on a life of law. The only sacrifice they are aware of is that of Abraham, which they follow annually in ritual as Eid al AdHa. 
  • Some say that they will have to think about it.
  • After thinking about it they may:
    • if trained, pull Bible verses out of context that say God does not want sacrifices. But remember, these were said in a context of his desiring a pure heart and relationship rather than ritual. (Isaiah 1:11-17, Hosea 6:6-7, Micah 6:6-8)
    • say that the Bible is corrupted. However, they cannot reasonably deny that Judaism and Christianity were based around sacrifices because:
      • There are abundant references to sacrifices throughout the Bible, not just a disputable few. The Quran affirms the prior scriptures, and these references were in manuscripts present at the time of Mohammed,
      • Historical and archaeological evidence of sacrifices in Jewish history, and crosses in early Christians culture, for example:
        • Babylonian and Roman reliefs of stolen temple furnishings
        • Mention of Jesus’ crucifixion in Roman writings

Peace or Force? 

The way of God in spreading the faith differs in the Bible and Islam. In the Bible’s Book of Proverbs God’s wisdom is spoken of as a woman.

Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. Proverbs 3:17

Neither Jesus nor Moses, nor the Bible itself teaches promoting the faith by violence. This is in contrast to Islam. The religion which calls itself “The Religion of Peace” is anything but peaceful and does not present a god whose paths are peace. 

In our video Lesson on Islam and Violence, Arab Pastor George Saieg tells us that jihad in Islam clearly includes violence. The word in the Quran usually translated as “fight” in English, he says in Arabic clearly means to fight with the sword. There are many verses in the Quran which promote violence:

  • defensive
  • as offensive against non-Muslims until they die, convert, or pay jizya (the ransom tax) 
  • to protect the honor of Islam by killing:
    • apostates
    • adulterers 
    • those who insult the Quran or Prophet Mohammed
    • those who “spread mischief in the land” (selling alcohol, encouraging immorality, teaching against submission to Islam, questioning Islam.)
    • those who bring shame to Islam through their behavior 

In his teachings, Jesus told us to love our enemies. In forbearance with Samaria, and in his parable of the wheat and the tares, told us not to worry about the troublemakers now. At the time of harvest, the judgement, evildoers will be punished. (Luke 9:51-56, Matthew 13:24-30 & 36-43)

Both the old and New Testaments of the Bible tell us not to take revenge. (Deuteronomy 32:35 & Romans 12:19)

We are told to fight with spiritual weapons like truth, righteousness, and the gospel of peace:

Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but …against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12

(Note: For more information see the study guide and video Lesson on Islam and Violence.)

God’s Character in the OLD and NEW Testaments

Now we leave the comparison of God and Allah to discuss God’s character in the Old and New Testaments. 

The panel in our video lesson, Rev Anderson, Rev Siegel, and Dr. C discusses the question of a new believer from a Muslim background: 

“Is God in the New Testament different from God in the New Testament?”

Muslim apologists, along with other critics of the Bible, say that parts of the Old Testament of the Bible can give the impression that God is a God of anger, whereas the New Testament God appears more loving. Our panel points out that although we might see more of these traits in some Bible passages than others, the overall character and plan of God is the same throughout the Bible.

In both the Old and New Testaments, we see the same characteristics of God in his:

  • justice
  • love and concern for his creation
  • faithfulness to his people and his word
  • eternal attributes such as being:
    • the only all-powerful God (omnipotence)
    • everywhere (omnipresence)
    • knowing everything (omniscience)
  • cohesive plan running through history

James Anderson on God’s Care in Creation

Dr. Jim uses Genesis 1 as an example of the tender care of God for humanity in the Old Testament. He says as we follow the creation of the earth, day by day, we see that God was making it into a place that would be suited for human habitation. His concern for his creatures was evident there, just as when he sent Jesus to save us.

Scientific facts support the same thing. There are many factors which must be exactly right for life on earth to exist. (Example: Watch this video, and visit the Reasons website .)

Bob Siegel on the Justice of God in both testaments

Rev. Bob tells us that God is loving in both the Old and New Testament. God has two attributes, he tells us. God judges. He holds us accountable for our wrong deeds. But he is also merciful and compassionate. We tend to see more of the judgement side in the Old Testament and more of the mercy in the New Testament, but we do see both in both testaments.

God has not changed between the Old and New Testaments, but his agreement with humans has changed. This agreement is called a testament or covenant. 

In the Old Testament, in Jeremiah 31:31, God told us that a new agreement or covenant would be coming. In it the laws would be written on our hearts. That is what happens when the Holy Spirit, which was sent in the New Covenant, directs our lives. When this happens we do good without laws, so fewer laws are necessary.

Progressive Revelation: Bob points out that God’s communication over the years was progressive, meaning more and more clear over time. 

This is a different view than the Muslim view which says that Allah’s prophets always brought the same message. In the Bible we learn that not only is God the only God, but he would one day come to earth. He would live as an example, die to create a new covenant or agreement in his blood.

Sometimes Muslims tell us that Muslims and Jews have the same view of God. Bob says this is correct mainly in denying that Jesus is the Son of God – God in human flesh. However, when Muslims claim that the Quran’s commands to fight are the same as the Old Testament wars, Bob says, 

“There’s a great, great difference…there was never a command given to the Jews to conquer the world for God.”

There were only specific instances where they were to fight for a cause, such as judgement of the people practicing child sacrifice, to destroy that nation and its way.

Bob concludes, 

“Jesus is leaving the choice to you,” he says. “God is a respecter of free will. God is a gentleman; he will not force himself upon you. He does not command Christians to force their message upon people. Some Christians have been forceful, but that is not the way Christ would have them be… God will leave it up to you, what you’re going to do with the mercy of Jesus.”

 Using Words

Examples of Faith Expressions that Christians and Muslims Share:

Our understanding of God and his character impacts the way we live, the way we talk and even the expressions we use.

Muslims are in the habit of often saying two Arabic word phrases:

Inshallah and Alhamdulillah!  

These phrases mean “God willing” and “Praise God!” respectively. 

Although we could argue that Muslims say these words by rote and for different reasons, Christians also say, “Lord willing” and “Praise the Lord.” 

Muslims usually respect that Christians do this. It helps distinguish us to them as people of faith, rather than the secular public they meet in the West who do not honor God.  We can also use these words as a bridge both to be friends with Muslims, and to share the Christian faith with them.

Muslims have an extreme view of fate. Belief that every single thing that happens has been predestined by Allah is their sixth article of faith. Living in an awareness of this doctrine encourages them to say, inshallah before any predicted plan, event, or outcome. 

Christians, whether or not we believe in the extent of predestination that Muslims do, are also instructed to say, “Lord willing.”

You ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”    James 4:15

This humbly reflects the fact that we have very little control over our lives and what happens in the future. Our health, circumstances, and many other particulars must come together for us to follow through on a plan. We share this view with Muslims. That makes it a good connection for us.

Muslims say alhamdulillah for both good and bad events, because Allah is always to be praised. Christians usually only say “Praise the Lord!” for something good, like an answer to prayer. However, certainly can relate to the Muslim practice because as Job said,

The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. May the name of the Lord be praised.   Job 1:21

and because,

We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him. Romans 8:28

Really, we can learn faith lessons from Muslims from these two expressions which we could/do/or should share. In fact, you will find Christians who work with Muslims often using these expressions – in English or Arabic.

We would call these “word bridges” because we can use these words to start discussions with Muslims. You might also recall the “magic word bridge” asalaam alaykum, meaning “peace be upon you all.” 

(Note: We discuss these and many other bridges in our study guide and Lesson on Building Bridges with Muslims.)

Bible Teacher Keith on the Use of the Tongue

When Bible teacher Keith was asked to share with us something of importance to him, he chose to speak about the use of our tongues. Above, we spoke about one use of our tongues – to praise God. “God is Great!” 

Dr. Cynthia introduces the topic of the tongue by mentioning activities practiced everywhere, but especially common in the Middle East: gossip, criticism, lying and deception. 

Brother Keith reminds us of what the Bible teaches about the use of our tongues. He reads to us James 3:2-12. This passage, in the book by Jesus’ brother James and paraphrased here, tells us,

“Just like a horse’s bit and a ship’s rudder are small, but they move a large object, our tongues can do the same thing. They are like a spark which can begin a big fire, or like a deadly poison. With our same tongue we praise God and yet curse people. This is wrong! A spring can produce salt or fresh water, not both. If we are never at fault in what we say, we are perfect.”

Dear friends, how should we use our tongues? Consider these Bible verses,

  • Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Proverbs 4:24
  • The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.  Proverbs 12:22
  • From the mouth of the righteous comes the fruit of wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be silenced. Proverbs 10:31
  • The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.  Proverbs 15:4
  • Rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. I Peter 2:1
  • Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. I Thessalonians 5:11
  • Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.  Ephesians 4:29

A Prayer for the Tongue:

As a devotion, reflect on these verses and how your use of your tongue matches up to their high standard. Then perhaps you will be ready to pray this:

Every day Lord, more and more, help us to use our tongues, mouths, and entire bodies to give you praise, and to benefit those around us. In Jesus’ dear name, Amen.

Reality – the Analogy of the Quilt

This segment in the video presents making a quilt as a reflection of God’s character. 

You might remember from other lessons that our approach to life is Peace and Purpose:

  • Peace with God, ourselves, and others.
  • and a Purpose to serve God for his kingdom. 

A lack of satisfaction in life generally comes from failure to find peace or recognize our purpose.

To simplify your life and intensify its success, everything that comes into your life should either contribute to your well-being, meaning Peace, or be part of your Purpose. If it does not, and you can, you should eliminate it. If you cannot eliminate it, it could actually be part of your purpose, which is good, or an addiction, which is bad. Either should be presented to God in prayer. 

Everyone needs some activities that they enjoy. These encourage them of the goodness of God in their life and strengthen them to serve God. That is part of their Peace. 

For Christian teacher Dee, quilt-making relaxes her and releases her creativity. Dee is from Connecticut. Part of her New England heritage is making quilts. Both of Dr. C’s grandmothers also made quilts. In the video, Dee demonstrates how she quilts, and some of the results.

Creativity is one of the characteristics of God. According to Genesis 1:27 humans were made in the image of God. For that reason, we are creative too!

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. Genesis 1:31

One of the most rewarding experiences of human existence is to be able to look at our work and be pleased with it – whether it is something big like saving lives through medicine or building a house, or something small and personal like writing a poem or making a quilt. If you do not have such an outlet, even if you are busy it would be good for you to find one. Because,

A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toilThis too, I see, is from the hand of God.  Ecclesiastes 2:24

Dee explains that making a quilt from fabric scraps is like the way God works with us. He takes the broken pieces of our lives and patches them back together into something beautiful.

God’s cool that way,” she concludes.

May God do that with the broken pieces of your life. Lift them to him in prayer. May he heal you and give you the gift of satisfaction with your work. For again,

We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.  Romans 8:28

Scripture References for this Lesson:

  • II Corinthians 5:17
  • Exodus 3:13,14 & 34:6, 7
  • James 3:2 & 5:11, & 1:17, & 4:15
  • Job 1:21
  • Romans 3:26 & 6:26, & 3:23 & 5:8
  • Leviticus 17:11
  • Hebrews 2:10, & 4 :15, & 7:25 & 9:22, 26 & 1:3
  • Colossians 1:20
  • Psalm 75:7 & 118:1
  • Romans 14:12 & 8:2,28 & 10:9,10 & 12:19
  • James 1:19 & 3:1-12 & 4 :15
  • Deuteronomy 6:4
  • I Timothy 2:5
  • Genesis 1:27, 31
  • Jeremiah 31:31
  • Isaiah 43:10
  • John 1:17 & 3:17-19 & 8:58 & 14:2,3
  • Luke 9:51-56
  • Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 & 16:18
  • Deuteronomy 32:35  
  • Acts 6:7
  • Proverbs 3:17 & 4:24, & 10:31, & 12:22 & 15:4
  • Psalm 102:27
  • Malachi 3:6
  • Hebrews 13:8
  • Isaiah 1:11-17
  • Hosea 6:6-7
  • Micah 6:6-8
  • I Peter 2:1
  • I Thessalonians 4:16-18 & 5:11
  • Ephesians 4:29 & 6:12
  • Genesis 1:27,31
  • Ecclesiastes 2:29

Note: See also the references in Appendix 1, after the questions, listing the names and characteristics of God.

Quran Reference:

  • Quran 3:31, 32

Study Questions:

  1. Scientists, especially in the Intelligent Design community, describe how the universe seems custom-tailored for human life. 
    • Give an example of how this is true, either from science directly, or from the lesson.
    • How does this fit with Dr. Anderson’s view of Genesis 1, that the account of creation is an expression of God’s care?
  2. Rev. Bob Siegel, a Jewish background believer, has heard accusations that violent Muslims are no different that Old Testament Israelites. 
    • Does he agree with this? 
    • What do you think?
    • Give a good reason or verse to support your position.
  3. Does Moses, Jesus, or the Bible ever teach to spread the faith by force?
    • Does Islam teach spreading faith by force?
    • Give documentation for your answer, if possible.
  4. Does the panel think there is a difference in God’s character in the Old Testament and New Testament? 
    • How is the apparent discrepancy resolved? 
    • What do you think?
  5. Dr. Cynthia explains that it is very important for Muslims to understand God’s justice.
    • What is the basis of forgiveness in Islam?
    • What is the basis of forgiveness in Christianity?
    • How do God’s Justice and Mercy balance in Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross?
  6. When it comes down to it, even heirloom quilts are made from scraps. 
    • How does creating something like a quilt reflect God’s work with people?
    • Can you give an example from your own life, or the life of someone you know, of how God took the broken pieces and put them back together into something beautiful?
  7. In our lessons we talk about “peace” as something that gives us contentment, so that we can better appreciate God’s goodness and accomplish his special purpose for our lives. In the book of Ecclesiastes Solomon tells us that one of the best things in life is to find satisfaction in the work of our hands.
    • What do you do that you find satisfying?
    • Is there something good that you could do that would bring you satisfaction?
    • How could you fulfill God’s blessing to someone else by helping them find satisfaction in their work?
  8. Consider the names and characteristics of God in the Bible. 
    • Which name of the God of the Bible especially touches you?
    • Which characteristic of the God of the Bible especially touches you?
  9. Consider the names of God and Allah:
    • Compare the lists of the names of God/Allah in Appendices 1 & 2. As a sort of game, 
      • What similarities do you find in the lists?
      • Do you think that most of the characteristics and names of God and Allah are similar?
      • Are any important names of God left out of the list for Allah?
      • Are there any names of Allah which would not fit for God?
  10. The human tongue can be used to recite spells and promote falsehood and bondage. However, it can also be used for good.
    • Give an example of a bad use of the tongue.
    • Give an example of a good use of the tongue.
    • How can we encourage our Muslim and Christian associates to use their tongues to build up rather than tear down?  (see I Thessalonians 5:11)
  11. WORKSHOP Option: (This can be brief or be expanded into a several hour workshop, at the choice of the study group leader.)  Muslims deny that Jesus Christ claimed to be God. At times they deny that the gospel writers claimed that Jesus was God. They will say that Paul invented the idea that Jesus is God and Savior.
    • List things that Jesus said about himself that would show that he is God.
    • What things that Jesus said especially told the Jews of that time that he was God?
    • Where do the gospel writers say that Jesus is God, or the Son of God?
  12. CONTROVERSY Resolution Option: (Because of its potential for controversy, this topic of discussion should be at the discretion of the study group leader)
    • Do you consider “God” and “Allah” as roughly equivalent neutral names for God?
    • What is the origin of the word “God?”
    • What is the origin of the word “Allah?”
    • What word do Arab Christians use for “God?”
    • What word or words does the Old Testament use for God?

Appendix 1, Names and Characteristics of God in the Bible

Below you will find names of God from the Bible, with a verse that demonstrates that characteristic.

NAMES of GOD:

Hebrew Names of God

  • God is Jehovah. I AM. Known in Hebrew by the “tetragrammaton” YHWH. God told Moses he is YHWH-Asher-YHWH meaning “I am,” “He who is,” or “He brings into existence whatever exists.” He is the self-sustaining one (discussed above).  It may be translated in English as LORD. Exodus 3:13-15
  • God is Jehovah-jireh. This name means “the God who provides.” He provides all good things for our needs and enjoyment, life, and salvation. Genesis 22:9-14, I Timothy 6:17
  • God is Jehovah-shalom. This name means “the God of peace” or “shalom.” God’s peace surpasses understanding and helps us through difficult times. God gives us Peace and Purpose. Judges 6:16-24
  • (Notice how similar shalom is to salaam, the Arabic word for peace.)  
  • God is Jehovah-rapha. This name means “Jehovah heals.” God alone provides the remedy for all our ills – physical, relational, and spiritual.  Exodus 15:22-26  (Note: also, Jehovah-rophe)
  • God is Jehovah-nissi. This name means “God our banner.” Under His banner we triumph and say, “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57).  Exodus 17:8-15
  • God is Elohim. This name means “Strength” or “Power.” Elohim is the great name of God, displaying His supreme power.  Genesis 17:7,8
  • God is Jehovah-M’Kaddesh. This name means “the God who sanctifies.” He requires that the people who follow Him be cleansed from all evil.  Leviticus 20:7,8
  • God is Adonai. This name means “Master” or “Lord.” God, our Adonai, is the Lord of all.          2 Samuel 7:18-20
  • God is YHWH Adonai. This double name means “Sovereign Lord.” Jeremiah 32:17
  • God is YHWH Sabaoth. This double name means “the Lord of Hosts” who is over all powers.    I Samuel 1:3
  • God is Adonai YHWH Sabaoth which means “the Lord, the Lord Almighty,” emphasizing his power. Isaiah 1:24
  • God is El-Shaddai. This name means “God Almighty,” the God who is all-sufficient and all-bountiful, the source of all blessings.  Genesis 17:1

Other Names of God

  • God is the Creator. All that exists was made by him and through him in action that involved Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Genesis 14:22
  • God is Father. God is called “Father” in both the Old and New Testaments. The Creator of the universe cares for each one of us as his child. Jesus taught us to pray, “Our Father.” Christians can even call him “Abba, Father,” which means “Daddy.” (Romans 8:15-17) Isaiah 63:16, Matthew 6:9
  • God is Holy Spirit in both the Old and New Testaments. Isaiah 63:11, 
  • The Holy One of Israel. Isaiah 49:7
  • God is Redeemer in both the Old and New Testaments. Isaiah 63:16 & 49:7
  • God is Savior in both the Old and New Testaments. Isaiah 63:8, Titus 2:13
  • The Faithful One.  Isaiah 49:7
  • The Counselor and the Spirit of Truth is what Jesus called the Holy Spirit of God. John 14:26, 15:26, & 16:7 (Note: Islam misinterprets these as prophecy of Mohammed.)
  • God is Refuge and Strong Tower Proverbs 18:10
  • God is the Potter we are the clay. Isaiah 64:8
  • God is the Gardener; he makes things grow and prunes the vines. John 15:1
  • God is the Beginning and the End, Alpha and Omega, in both the Old and New Testaments. Isaiah 48:12, Revelation 1:17

Special Names of Jesus:

  • Son of God John 1:34
  • Son of Man Mark 8:31
  • Son of David Matthew 1:1
  • Lamb of God John 1:29
  • Lion of Judah Revelation 5:5
  • Root of David Revelation 5:5
  • Rose of Sharon Song of Songs 2:1
  • The Morning Star Revelation 22:16
  • The Good Shepherd John 10:11
  • The Bread of Life John 6:35
  • The Door John 10:9
  • The Light of the World John 8:12
  • The Way, the Truth, and the Life John 14:6
  • The Resurrection and the Life John 11:25
  • Wonderful Counselor Isaiah 9:6
  • Prince of Peace Isaiah 9:6 
  • The Faithful and True Witness Revelation 3:14
  • The Ruler of Creation Revelation 3:14
  • The One Mediator I Timothy 2:5
  • The Righteous Judge II Timothy 4:8
  • Lord Philippians 2:11 
  • Master Luke 8:24
  • Teacher/Rabbi Luke 11:45
  • The Heir of All Things Hebrews 1:2
  • The Vine John 15:1
  • The Firstfruits I Corinthians 15:20
  • Husband/Bridegroom 2 Corinthians 11:2
  • Servant of the Lord Isaiah 52:13
  • Emanuel, God with us Matthew 1:23
  • Great High Priest Hebrews 4:14
  • King of Kings I Timothy 6:15
  • Lord of Lords I Timothy 6:15

CHARACTERISTICS of GOD:

  • God is unique. There is only one God. Isaiah 43:10
  • God is good. God is the embodiment of perfect goodness. He is kind, caring, and full of favor toward all of creation.  Psalm 119:68
  • God is love. God’s love is so great that He gave His only Son to bring us into fellowship with Him. God’s love encompasses the world, but also embraces each of us personally.  1 John 4:7-10
  • God is just. God is righteous and holy, fair and equitable in all things. We can trust Him to always do what is right.  Psalm 75:1-7
  • God is merciful. God’s merciful compassion is never ending and does not run dry. Through His provision in Christ, He took the judgment that was rightfully ours and placed it on His own shoulders. He waits and works now for all people to turn to Him and to live under His justification.  Deuteronomy 4:29-31
  • God is infinite. God is beyond measurement. He has no beginning, no end, and no limits.  Romans 11:33
  • God is omnipotent. God is all-powerful. He spoke all things into being, and all things are sustained by Him. There is nothing too difficult for Him.  Jeremiah 32:17, 26
  • God is omniscient. This means God is all-knowing. He knows anything that currently exists, existed in the past, or will exist in the future.  Psalm 139:1-6
  • God is omnipresent. God is everywhere—in and around everything, close to everyone. “‘Do not I fill heaven and earth?’ declares the Lord.”  Psalm 139:7-12
  • God is immutable. This means that God does not change. All that God is, He has always been. All that He has been and is, He will ever be.  Malachi 3:6 
  • God is perfect. This means he is complete, lacking nothing, and does what is right. Matthew 5:48
  • God is the Church’s head. God the Son, Jesus, is the head of the Church. Ephesians 1:22,23
  • God is our intercessor. Knowing our temptations, God the Son intercedes for us. He opens the doors for us to boldly ask God the Father for mercy. Hebrews 4:14-16
  • God is faithful. Out of His faithfulness God honors His covenants and fulfills His promises. Our hope for the future rests upon God’s faithfulness.  Psalm 89:1-8
  • God is full of grace. God’s grace moves Him to give undeserved favor, and to forgive debts that cannot be repaid.  Ephesians 1:5-8
  • God gives comfort.  Paul writes that the Lord is “the God of all comfort.”  2 Corinthians 1:3,4
  • God is transcendent. God is the highest being, existing beyond and above the universe he created, as well as identifying with it.  Psalm 113:4,5
  • God is holy. God’s holiness is not simply our best image of perfection. God is uniquely without stain.  Revelation 4:8-11
  • God is wise. God knows and acts with perfect wisdom in all things. He always acts for our good, which is to make us like Christ.  Proverbs 3:19,20
  • God is sovereign. God rules all creation with knowledge and power. He is the ultimate authority and decisionmaker.  1 Chronicles 29:11-13

Appendix 2, Names of Allah/God in Islam

This is the official list of the names of Allah. You will notice that many of these names are also characteristics or adapted from characteristics. Many are similar to characteristics of God in the Bible.

Allah (الله) God The Greatest Name, is also known as:

  1. Ar-Rahman (الرحمن) The All-Compassionate
  2. Ar-Rahim (الرحيم) The All-Merciful
  3. Al-Malik (الملك) The Absolute Ruler
  4. Al-Quddus (القدوس) The Pure or Holy One
  5. As-Salam (السلام) The Source of Peace
  6. Al-Mu’min (المؤمن) The Inspirer of Faith
  7. Al-Muhaymin (المهيمن) The Guardian
  8. Al-Aziz (العزيز) The Victorious
  9. Al-Jabbar (الجبار) The Compeller
  10. Al-Mutakabbir (المتكبر) The Greatest
  11. Al-Khaliq (الخالق) The Creator
  12. Al-Bari’ (البارئ) The Maker of Order
  13. Al-Musawwir (المصور) The Shaper of Beauty
  14. Al-Ghaffar (الغفار) The Forgiving
  15. Al-Qahhar (القهار) The Subduer
  16. Al-Wahhab (الوهاب) The Giver of All
  17. Ar-Razzaq (الرزاق) The Sustainer
  18. Al-Fattah (الفتاح) The Opener
  19. Al-`Alim (العليم) The All-Knowing
  20. Al-Qabid (القابض) The Constrictor
  21. Al-Basit (الباسط) The Reliever
  22. Al-Khafid (الخافض) The Abaser
  23. Ar-Rafi (الرافع) The Exalter
  24. Al-Mu’izz (المعز) The Bestower of Honors
  25. Al-Mudhill (المذل) The Humiliator
  26. As-Sami (السميع) The Hearer of All
  27. Al-Basir (البصير) The Seer of All
  28. Al-Hakam (الحكم) The Judge
  29. Al-`Adl (العدل) The Just
  30. Al-Latif (اللطيف) The Subtle One
  31. Al-Khabir (الخبير) The All-Aware
  32. Al-Halim (الحليم) The Forbearing
  33. Al-Azim (العظيم) The Magnificent
  34. Al-Ghafur (الغفور) The Forgiver and Hider of Faults
  35. Ash-Shakur (الشكور) The Rewarder of Thankfulness
  36. Al-Ali (العلى) The Highest
  37. Al-Kabir (الكبير) The Greatest
  38. Al-Hafiz (الحفيظ) The Preserver
  39. Al-Muqit (المقيت) The Nourisher
  40. Al-Hasib (الحسيب) The Accountant
  41. Al-Jalil (الجليل) The Mighty
  42. Al-Karim (الكريم) The Generous
  43. Ar-Raqib (الرقيب) The Watchful One
  44. Al-Mujib (المجيب) The Responder to Prayer
  45. Al-Wasi (الواسع) The All-Comprehending
  46. Al-Hakim (الحكيم) The Perfectly Wise
  47. Al-Wadud (الودود) The Loving One
  48. Al-Majid (المجيد) The Majestic One
  49. Al-Ba’ith (الباعث) The Resurrector
  50. Ash-Shahid (الشهيد) The Witness
  51. Al-Haqq (الحق) The Truth
  52. Al-Wakil (الوكيل) The Trustee
  53. Al-Qawiyy (القوى) The Possessor of All Strength
  54. Al-Matin (المتين) The Forceful One
  55. Al-Waliyy (الولى) The Governor
  56. Al-Hamid (الحميد) The Praised One
  57. Al-Muhsi (المحصى) The Appraiser
  58. Al-Mubdi’ (المبدئ) The Originator
  59. Al-Mu’id (المعيد) The Restorer
  60. Al-Muhyi (المحيى) The Giver of Life
  61. Al-Mumit (المميت) The Taker of Life
  62. Al-Hayy (الحي) The Ever Living One
  63. Al-Qayyum (القيوم) The Self-Existing One
  64. Al-Wajid (الواجد) The Finder
  65. Al-Majid (الماجد) The Glorious
  66. Al-Wahid (الواحد) The Unique, The Single
  67. Al-Ahad (الاحد) The One, The Indivisible
  68. As-Samad (الصمد) The Satisfier of All Needs
  69. Al-Qadir (القادر) The All Powerful
  70. Al-Muqtadir (المقتدر) The Creator of All Power
  71. Al-Muqaddim (المقدم) The Expediter
  72. Al-Mu’akhkhir (المؤخر) The Delayer
  73. Al-Awwal (الأول) The First
  74. Al-Akhir (الأخر) The Last
  75. Az-Zahir (الظاهر) The Manifest One
  76. Al-Batin (الباطن) The Hidden One
  77. Al-Wali (الوالي) The Protecting Friend
  78. Al-Muta’ali (المتعالي) The Supreme One
  79. Al-Barr (البر) The Doer of Good
  80. At-Tawwab (التواب) The Guide to Repentance
  81. Al-Muntaqim (المنتقم) The Avenger
  82. Al-‘Afuww (العفو) The Forgiver
  83. Ar-Ra’uf (الرؤوف) The Clement
  84. Malik-al-Mulk (مالك الملك) The Owner of All
  85. Dhu-al-Jalal wa-al-Ikram (ذو الجلال و الإكرام) The Lord of Majesty and Bounty
  86. Al-Muqsit (المقسط) The Equitable One
  87. Al-Jami’ (الجامع) The Gatherer
  88. Al-Ghani (الغنى) The Rich One
  89. Al-Mughni (المغنى) The Enricher
  90. Al-Mani’(المانع) The Preventer of Harm
  91. Ad-Darr (الضار) The Creator of The Harmful
  92. An-Nafi’ (النافع) The Creator of Good
  93. An-Nur (النور) The Light
  94. Al-Hadi (الهادي) The Guide
  95. Al-Badi (البديع) The Originator
  96. Al-Baqi (الباقي) The Everlasting One
  97. Al-Warith (الوارث) The Inheritor of All
  98. Ar-Rashid (الرشيد) The Righteous Teacher
  99. As-Sabur (الصبور) The Patient One
  100. The 100th name of Allah, it is said, is known only to the camel.

(Note: Not listed, but important is Allah’s name/description as “the best of the deceivers.” Quran 3:54)

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