Along the lines of Christians understanding what we really claim in our faith, I note that many Christians have a poor understanding of the Bible and tend to believe that the Bible is "perfect" and, if not dictated by an angel, then darn nearly so. This means that they are caught off guard when a Muslim friend points out (for example) that there are discrepancies among the scrolls of Samuel found in (1) the Dead Sea Scrolls, (2) the Masoretic Text, (3) the Septuagint. A good understanding of Christian faith should lead one to shrug, "Sure, I knew that." The Muslim believes that the Quran is the *perfect* Word of God and that Mohammad pointed to it. Some Christians sadly have a parallel belief, but NO, Jesus is the *perfect* Word of God and the scriptures point to Him! Our view of our scriptures is VERY different from the Muslim view of theirs!
(I think am merely emphasizing one of your subpoints.)
Excellent article! My basic rule for talking with Muslims, Hindus, etc., has been to 'know what they know and know what I should know.' Ask them questions, listen patiently and carefully, pray for God's wisdom, and share the truth with love. Depend on the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit to change hearts and minds. He will do what Jesus said He will do. The Spirit convicts and convinces.
Along the lines of Christians understanding what we really claim in our faith, I note that many Christians have a poor understanding of the Bible and tend to believe that the Bible is "perfect" and, if not dictated by an angel, then darn nearly so. This means that they are caught off guard when a Muslim friend points out (for example) that there are discrepancies among the scrolls of Samuel found in (1) the Dead Sea Scrolls, (2) the Masoretic Text, (3) the Septuagint. A good understanding of Christian faith should lead one to shrug, "Sure, I knew that." The Muslim believes that the Quran is the *perfect* Word of God and that Mohammad pointed to it. Some Christians sadly have a parallel belief, but NO, Jesus is the *perfect* Word of God and the scriptures point to Him! Our view of our scriptures is VERY different from the Muslim view of theirs!
(I think am merely emphasizing one of your subpoints.)
Excellent article! My basic rule for talking with Muslims, Hindus, etc., has been to 'know what they know and know what I should know.' Ask them questions, listen patiently and carefully, pray for God's wisdom, and share the truth with love. Depend on the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit to change hearts and minds. He will do what Jesus said He will do. The Spirit convicts and convinces.
That's great advice that I heartily agree with!