abstract: Islam, as a religion, has consistently articulated a worldview that is comprehensive and is inimically opposed to Christianity, Judaism, and Western Civilization

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by Ethan Foltz

Introduction

It is probably safe to say that since the tragic events of September 11 our national psyche has changed, and the soul of our nation has received a quivering blow at its very being. Our mindset has changed drastically, now focusing upon issues of war, homeland security, etc. We are very concerned to have a plan of action for anthrax and other biological weapons, nuclear attacks, and to have reinforced airplane cockpit doors and airport security. No longer will we allow hijackers to take over a plane nor will we submit to their demands. Threats, even those that are unverifiable, are now taken very seriously. I expect that for many years to come, our children and grandchildren will look back to this time as a major turning point in the history of these great United States of America.

In light of the troubled times in which we live, I believe that it is wise for us to consider the enemy that faces us, and our responsibility as individuals, families, churches, and as a nation. Thus, believing that "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works" (2 Tim 3:16-17) applies to us today, it is our duty as Christians to equip ourselves for the work of ministry to our nation and to the world. This ministry is multi-faceted: it involves service to the wounded and to the relatives of the dead, braving the stench of dead bodies mixed with choking dust and acrid smoke to clear the rubble from the crumbled buildings, giving money to those who were victimized by the horrible crime, and fighting against terrorism through the military, intelligence agencies, and by other methods. However, to do these things, as important as they are, is not enough. We, as the people of God, are called to be wise; to understand issues and occurrences from God's viewpoint.

Although our civil leaders profess that our nation is not at war with Islam, yet every one of the terrorist groups that we have targeted militarily is Islamic. Although our leaders have publicly declared that Islam is a religion of peace, and we are simply dealing with rogue elements within Islam, the situation is not quite as simple as that. The historical record is quite clear on the militaristic aspect of Islam. The roots of terrorism are articulated by the Quran, and other teachings of the Islamic faith. Ever since its inception, Islam has been at war spiritually, ideologically, and sometimes militarily with Christianity.

Thus, I believe, that in order to fully understand the times in which we live, we must understand our enemy, who he is, what he believes, and what our differences are, and then follow through with a plan of action. These are not times to stand idly and watch the world go by! This is WAR! I am not speaking of the current military situation, however, but of the ideological and spiritual war between two arch-enemies: the Christian faith vs. the Islamic religion. The sad events of the past few months are only a few episodes in a long saga of conflict, war, disagreement, and territorial conquest.

While I do not condone individual acts of violence or bigotry against Muslims, and I recognize that there are many peaceful Muslims who desire to live in our midst and work among us as good neighbors, Islam, as a religion, has consistently articulated a worldview that is comprehensive and is inimically opposed to Christianity, Judaism, and Western Civilization. If we fail to recognize this, our nation will pay dearly in the future.

Today, there are over one billion Muslims worldwide. Islam is the second largest religion in Europe, and it challenges Judaism as the second largest religion in the United States. A United Nations demographic report forecasts Muslims will represent at least half of the global birthrate after the year 2055. Therefore, Islam is a growing force that will influence the world, its affairs, alliances, and politics for generations to come.

Islam by all evidence appears to be a greater threat to the expansion of Christianity than any other religion or ism; more than communism, humanism, atheism, Buddhism, or Hinduism. As the struggle against communism was the focus of the 20^th century, I believe that the struggle against Islam will be characteristic of the 21^st, and possibly longer. Christians cannot stick their heads into the sand and pretend that the issue of Islam will go away, or that the rapture will occur before Islam engulfs us.

Christians are called to understand the times in which they live and to act with prudence (cf. 1 Chron. 12:32; Prov. 14:8; Eccl. 8:5-6; 10:10; Luke 12:56-57; Eph. 5:17). This certainly applies to the conflict with Islam.

Christians are also called to evangelize the world and bring all nations and all areas of life under the authority and rule of Christ (Isa. 61:11-62: 2; Luke 24:44-47). It is our duty, yes, our privilege, to preach repentance and remission of sins in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord among all the nations (Acts 2:9-11). We have the authority from Christ himself (Matt.28:18-20) to go, to teach, and to baptize all nations. This is an immense task, and to accomplish it Christians must understand the tenets of Islam (which is one of the major world religions, and one that threatens to engulf the world), and expose it for the anti-christ that it is, considering how believers can overcome it through the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ.

This article will begin with a brief history of Islam from its inception until the present day. Next, it will include a broad overview and definition of terms that are in use by Muslims. Then, it will consider the precepts or "pillars" of Islam, discover the roots of the conflict, and articulate the distinctions between Christianity and Islam. Finally, it will close with a plan of action.

The History of Islam1

The history of Islam really begins with the "son of the flesh," Ishmael, who was born prior to Isaac, "the son of the promise." Both were born to Abraham, the father of many nations. Ishmael's birth was a result of a compromise by Abraham and Sarah due to their age and Sarah's barrenness. Sarah gave her servant, Hagar, to be Abraham's wife. In accordance with the culture, the offspring would be considered Abraham and Sarah's, and would receive all the benefits of a child and heir. However, as the biblical account records in Genesis 21, Ishmael was found mocking Isaac (cf. Gal. 4:29). This eventually led to the dismissal of Hagar and Ishmael, and she fled into the wilderness with her son. Ishmael grew up as a wild man of the wilderness, a man of the desert, continually in conflict with others around him. Ishmael had 12 sons (princes), who were the beginnings of nations. Esau later married Bashemath, one of his daughters. Scripture associates the clans and tribes that descend from Ishmael with the Midianites, the Edomites, the Egyptians, and the Assyrians. Islamic tradition concurs with this, and asserts that Ishmael settled in the city of Mecca, which eventually became the holy city of Islam. There he became the leader of the various desert peoples in the Middle East. Thus, from Isaac came the Jews, and from Ishmael came the Arabs.

The conflict between the Jews and Arabs escalated with the coming of Israel to the promised land, wherein dwelt many descendants of Ishmael and their brethren. We read the accounts of Joshua, Caleb, Othniel, Ehud, Shamgar, Deborah, Barak, Gideon, Jephthah, Samson, Samuel, Saul, and David, who valiantly fought against descendants of Ishmael. This conflict has never been forgotten, even to this day.

The Sahih Muslim annals, written during the time of Muhammad, state:

The criminal Jews have brought destruction upon the Umma (the true believers of Islam) since the earliest times. Their leaders conspired to send the innocent of Canaan away from their homes. They repulsed the pleas of the Philistine widows and Moabite orphans and washed their fields in the blood of the Ammonite poor. Therefore, they shall not stand in the day of judgment, nor shall they prevail against the sure coming of Ji'had. Allah shall pronounce just retribution and the Umma shall observe with joy and gladness.2

Yassir Arafat declared in the Ha Ubal Or, Jerusalem edition, January 3, 1991,

Be assured that the many indignities heaped upon the Palestinian people since ancient times must and shall be avenged. Israel's policy in the occupied territories is little more than an extension of the imperialistic tactics of the conqueror Joshua. Surely the judgment of Allah is reserved for them until Palestine is transferred from Dar al Harb to Dar al Islam. Ishmael shall have his revenge.3

For a time, it seemed that Ishmael had his revenge as the Assyrians and Babylonians dispersed the nation of Israel after Israel's fall into idolatry. However, the Persians restored the promised land to Isaac's descendants, and the rivalry resumed, with Tobiah and Sanballat's challenge of Ezra and Nehemiah.

Roman rule then threatened the existence of Judaism, exercising control over Palestine, culminating in the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. The Christians then widely dispersed, and practically the entire Arab community in South Arabia were converted to Christianity.

Several hundred years passed, and a man named Muhammad was born in Mecca around the year AD 570. He was orphaned at six, and was consequently brought up by his grandfather and uncle who trained him to be a merchant. He became increasingly concerned about the polytheism and superstitions of the Meccans and other Arabs, some of whom were idolaters. He became familiar with the teachings of the Jews, but rejected some parts of the Old Testament. He also studied, at least in part, the New Testament, accepting the person of Christ but denying his deity and resurrection. Around 610, he claimed to have received a visitation from the angel Gabriel, who told him he was the messenger of God. After becoming a teacher, his teaching were collected and written down as the Quran (the recitation), revealed to him, supposedly, by God.

When Muhammad's wife and uncle died, he lost his claim to wealth, and he and his small band of followers were no longer wanted in Mecca. There was much persecution of those propounding this new religion, which came to be called "Islam" or "surrender," and its followers were called Muslims--"those who have surrendered." During this time, he claimed to have been taken by Gabriel to Jerusalem, where he met Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, and led them in prayer. Afterwards, he was taken to the seven heavens from the famous rock that has become known as the "Dome of the Rock." Upon his return, he preached even more fervently, bringing on himself more wrath and persecution. He was invited to a city named Yathrib, and emigrated there in 622. This is the date from which Muslims start their calendar. The name of the city was changed to Medina, "the city of the prophet."

As he was exiled, he launched a fierce "jihad" or holy war against the significant Jewish communities of Hejaz. He had the Jewish men scourged and decapitated in the public square, and divided their women, children, animals, and property among his followers. He wrote scathing verses in the Quran against Jews and Christians, calling them defiled, violent, and receiving indignation from Allah. He called for his followers to "Fight against the Jews and kill them." However, as he gained control over the Arabian peninsula, and then over the Mediterranean world, he tempered his policy of slaughter, and invented a treaty, or Dhimma, to subjugate his foes by sparing their lives in return for a tithe of half their property. Various taxes were added on later, and the subjugated people were permitted to practice their religion on a limited basis.

By 630, Muslim armies had taken Mecca. Muhammad died in 632. George Braswell sums up his legacy:

By the end of his life, Muhammad had emerged as a religious and political leader without equal in the Arabian peninsula. He had founded a monotheistic and prophetic religion that included a basic and straightforward confessional statement, a worldview of one God who sent angels to prophets with a message embedded in a perfect scripture. Islam provided a specific and orderly lifestyle of prayer, fasting, and pilgrimage in the context of the mosque and under the guidance of religious and political authorities. A Muslim was taught to walk the straight path of Allah and thereby attain heaven and avoid hell.

During the last ten years of his life, Muhammad served the Muslim community as prophet, as political and economic leader, and as commander-in-chief of his warriors. He established the umma with such strength that shortly after his death Islam moved quickly beyond the peninsula to claim vast territories and peoples under its banner.

The crescent moon became the symbol on the minarets of mosques and on flags. The mission of Islam had been set. The world was divided into two domains: that world which was to exist under Allah, the teachings of the Qur'an, and the traditions of Muhammad; and that world which was still in ignorance and disobedience and which needed to be brought to submission under Islam. The destiny of Islam, which Muhammad had set was to extend from Mecca to the moon.4

Muhammad's followers continued in the path of aggression against those who "had not submitted--were not Muslims." Even though Mohammed revered Jesus as "one of the prophets," and His followers were "people of the book" receiving special consideration, yet Christians were still infidels and had to be dealt with as such. This meant that they were guilty of idolatry, subject to the judgment of Allah, and thus subject to the wrath of the Umma--the true community of Islam.

Who will protect them, by night or by day, from the Lord of Justice? Yet they are unmindful of their Lord's remembrance. Have they any other means to protect them? Their idolatry will be powerless for their salvation. Nor shall they be protected from our scourge. Good things have been bestowed upon these men and upon their fathers. They have lived long and prospered. But now, we shall invade their lands and curtail their borders. Can they then triumph? They have been warned by inspiration, but the deaf can hear nothing (Quran 21:41-46).

Grant states:

During the first four decades of the seventh century, Muslim armies began to engage the defenses of the Christian Middle East. With the divine assurance of ultimate victory and the comfort of devotional martyrdom inspiring them, the Muslim troops threw themselves into battle with passion, vision, and potency. And more often than not, they won.5

At this time, Byzantium, the Christian civilization that covered the Middle East, Asia Minor, the lower parts of Europe, and the northern edges of Africa was flourishing. In many ways, the Byzantine civilization had flowered to an excellent example of Christian civilization. It had a just and efficient legal system, limited and decentralized government, free and prosperous trade, and stable and secure families. A visitor during this time by the name of Maedock of Alliers wrote:

The evident misery in so many other domains is seemingly altogether absent here in the East. The prosperity and liberty enjoyed by all has had a melodious effect upon them. Industry and labor is undertaken with gladness of heart. Benediction is upon every tongue. Surely God's grace has rested upon them.6

However, this stability had encouraged a lax estimation of the importance of military preparedness, and the Islamic armies quickly saw and exploited that weakness. The caliph, Umar, who was the military leader, despised the Christian infidels, and was whole hearted in his desire to cause Byzantium to submit. Of him it is said,

'85In Christians he saw challenge. Therefore, his meat was their humiliation; his drink was their shame; his humor was their downfall; his very breathing was their destruction. To see the whole earth bow in submission to Allah was his sure desire; but to see Christendom fall was his great delight.7

By the time of Umar's death, Syria was conquered, Egypt was largely controlled, and he had defeated the Byzantines in the battle of Yarmuk. He conquered and controlled Jerusalem and all of Iraq, brought the Persians to the brink of collapse, and put Christendom on the defensive at every turn. This period of expansion was only stopped in 732 when the Christian armies of the West, led by Charles Martel, defeated the Muslim armies at the Battle of Tours/Poiters. By then, the map of the Mediterranean world had been practically transformed from a vast Christian empire to a vast Islamic one.

Due to the loss of these lands, the vulnerability of Byzantium, the occupation of the Jerusalem, the desecration of Christian sites in Palestine, and the atrocities committed by the Muslims such as rape, torture of priests and monks, and pilfering of villages and towns, Pope Urban II called for unity among Christians and a restoration of defiled Jerusalem. This became known as the beginning of the "Crusades." After much struggle, the Crusaders took Jerusalem in 1099, but lost it again in 1187 to the brilliant Muslim leader, Saladin. Additional crusades were launched, won, and lost, and Jerusalem was finally lost for the final time in 1244.

After this victory, the Muslims atrophied somewhat until the rise of the Ottoman empire in the 15^th and 16^th centuries, where they very nearly succeeded in accomplishing what Umar and Saladin had not been able to do. They managed by 1453 to apprehend the city of Constantinople, thus bringing an end to the Byzantine Empire. They were led by the Sultan Suleiman, who swept into Belgrade in 1521, conquered Hungary in 1526, and in 1529 attempted to take the very heart of Europe by besieging Vienna. If he had prevailed there, he in all likelihood would have been able to advance at least to Paris or even further. However, he was defeated, and Islam in its military conquests has never advanced that far again into the West.

From this point on, until the latter part of the 20^th century, there was not a great amount of change. The Ottoman empire slowly declined over the centuries, finally receiving its death blow in World War I. Many Islamic countries have gone with the modern flow of life, until a recent rise of fundamentalism swept through a number of Islamic countries. The fundamentalists deposed the Shah in Iran, took over or became influential in other governments, and developed schools to inculcate Muslims in the past understanding of Islam. From this fundamentalism arose such figures and movements as the Taliban in Afghanistan, Osama bin Laden, Saddam Hussein, Quaddafi in Libya, etc. While these differ in a few details, they are largely united in the restoration of a militant Islam that conquers the world for Allah. To this end, they are willing to support and commit horrendous terrorist actions, such as we saw in our country on September 11^th.

This rise of fundamentalism within Islam in the past 30 years has once again whetted the appetites of some Muslims to conquer the world of the infidels for Allah. George Grant states:

Just two weeks before the most brazen and horrific terrorist attacks in human history were carried out on the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and the World Trade Center in NYC, the Mufti of Jerusalem, Shik Ekrima Sobri, offered a chillingly prophetic prayer in the Al Aqsa mosque: "Allah, there is no strength but your strength. Destroy, therefore, the Zionist occupation and its helpers and its agents. Destroy the U.S. and its helpers and its agents. Destroy Britain and its helpers and its agents. Prepare those who will soon unite the Muslims of the world and march in the footsteps of Saladin. Allah, we ask you for forgiveness, forgiveness before death, and mercy and forgiveness after death. Allah, grant victory to Islam and the Muslims in the coming war.8

As the news of the attacks spread throughout the Muslim world, there were joyous celebrations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Beirut, Lebanon; Cairo, Egypt; Tripoli, Libya; Baghad, Iraq; Islamabad, Pakistan; Jakarta, Indonesia; Tehran, Iran; Ankara, Turkey; Jericho; Khartoum, Sudan; and East Jerusalem. There was dancing in the streets by those of all classes of life, who shouted, cheered, fired weapons in the air, and joyfully acclaimed the attack, singing songs of victory.

At the same time, however, displays of sympathy and tribute sprang up in London, Berlin, Paris, Mexico City, Stockholm, Oslo, Brussels, Rome, Vienna, Ottawa, Copenhagen, Lima, Zurich, and Prague. Memorial services were held in many well known churches and places, attended by hundreds of thousands of people. A spontaneous wave and outpouring of sympathy came from many countries, and the song 'God bless America' was sung in many countries other than our own.

The Muslim response of joy illustrates the divide between the West and the East. It also shows that the actions perpetrated in our country were not the results of a few misguided radical Islamists, but were in reality the expression of the worldview of many Muslims, who may have not been the perpetrators, but by their actions indicated their approval of these atrocities as being consistent with the Islamic faith.

Definition of Terms

First, we will look at the various Sectarian Groups.

Sunni

Ninety percent of Muslims are Sunni, which represent the orthodoxy or tradition of Islam. They believe in Sharia or Islamic law. They consider the other sects their brothers and sisters in the religion, although there has been disgust and hatred between them.

Shiite

Shiites are reformers who arose due to a division between the caliphs shortly after Muhammad's death. The Shiites look to Ali who was named the fourth caliph, but was murdered, as well as his two sons, Hasan and Husein. Shiite animosity toward Sunnis is commonplace to this day, and Shiites have a blood ritual where they tell and reenact the gruesome death of Husein and his family, clothing themselves in white, beating themselves with chains, and drawing blood to stain the white garments.

Sufi

The Sufi's are the ascetics and mystics of Islam, seeking to know God through introspection and inward experiences.

Wahhabi

The Wahhabi movement was founded by Al Wahhab in the 18^th century. They are literalists in Quranic interpretation, viewing the golden age of Muhammad and the first caliphs as the exemplary models of Islam. They seek to apply the penal code of the Quran. The movement advocates Jihad against the infidels and other Muslims who do not share their same understanding. Wahhibism has had a great influence upon other Islamic conservative movements. The influence of Wahhabism is largely responsible for the Islamic terrorist attacks since the 1970s, and has fanned the hatred of Osama bin Laden.

Nation of Islam

The Nation of Islam is a black movement in America that is a mixture of racism, occultism, Christianity, and Islam that uses Islamic vocabulary. A central belief is that blacks were created first, that whites were devils, and that the black race will gain its rightful leadership when God destroys the whites. The movement continues today with hundreds of thousands of followers under the leadership of Louis Farrakhan.

Next, we consider a few key terms.

Jihad

This term designates the concept of a struggle or extraordinary effort in the belief and practice of Islam. It often refers to a militant defending of or extending of the interests of Islam.

Dar al-Islam

refers to the 'house of Islam,' or the territory under the rule of Islam.

Dar al-Harb

then, refers to the territory of war--which means the areas of the world yet unsubdued by Islam.

Strengths of Islam

The strengths of Islam explain the religion's ability to expand so rapidly. We do not need to agree with their theology or practice in order to admire their organization and commitment.

First, Islam presents a comprehensive worldview. All of life is under the rule of Allah, and is to be ordered according to his instructions. George Braswell explains:

All of life should be subsumed under the laws of Allah: personal life, family life, culture, society, religion, government. The roots of the vision are in the Quran. Therefore, Muslims are under a mandate to establish this vision wherever Islam is present.9

Second, Islam rightly recognizes that religious belief undergirds all of life, and guides our understanding of it.

Third, Muslims also understand that in order to maintain their civilization, two key elements must be in order: maintenance of piety and education of the people. Therefore, when Muslims invade a country either through military conquest or more peaceful evangelization, they build mosques and establish schools.

Fourth, Muslims display a strong commitment to their beliefs. They are willing to die a martyr's death, even that of suicide bombing. Great dedication to their religion is evident in many ways.

The Pillars of Islam

Muslim life revolves around five or six pillars of submission. Keeping these pillars or disciplines is an essential part of Muslim life. This is essentially a system of salvation by works in which, if you faithfully do these disciplines, you will attain salvation.

Shahada, or Profession of Faith. 'There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is his prophet.'

Salat, or Prayer Ritual. A Muslim must pray, bowing toward Mecca and chanting an intercessory formula, five times per day.

Zakat, or Alms Giving. Every good Muslim is to give alms for the needs of the poor, the benefit of the community, and the propagation of the faith.

Haj, or Pilgrimage. At least once in their life time, Muslims are expected to travel to Mecca and to pray there.

Suam, or Fasting. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims are to abstain from food or drink during the daylight hours.

Jihad, or Struggle, either within oneself, or a wider struggle, as in a holy war. It is debated whether or not this is actually a sixth pillar, but it certainly is a major teaching within Islam. Within Islam there is a 'greater jihad,' which is the jihad against sin and all that is against Allah and his teachings. Then there is the 'lesser jihad,' which is the traditional view of holy war launched against the enemies of Islam in the name of Allah.

These pillars are considered the essence of Muslim piety, and mark whether a person is truly in submission to Allah or not.

Similarities Between Christianity and Islam

When studying a rival, it is wise to understand where you have agreement, and where you have sharp distinctions. Therefore, in our desire to reach Muslims for Christ, we must understand where we agree, and use that as a starting place to build a relationship and start our dialogue.

World Magazine in its issue on 'Islam & Terrorism' (October 27, 2001, p. 12) notes the following similarities:

Islam is monotheistic. They believe in one god, all-powerful and ever-present, uncreated, without beginning or end, completely sufficient unto himself.

Islam is creationist. They reject evolution and believe in supernatural creation.

Islam has developed a civilization that has made advances in science, medicine, and mathematics. Among other things, they gave Arabic numerals to Europe. They emphasized health through rules of cleanliness and diet. They also spurred medical research in medieval times.

Islam stands together with Christianity on many social issues. They oppose homosexuality and (generally) abortion. Islam emphasizes honesty in business, forbidding the sale of blemished produce, cheating in weights and measures, hoarding, or concealing a product's fault.

Islam welcomes adherents of every skin color and ethnicity. The Quran, like the Bible, is color-blind.

In addition to these aspects stated in World, we should note two more similarities.

Islam is inspired by missionary zeal. They seek to spread their faith to all nations and to conquer the world for Allah.

Islam strenuously opposes idolatry. In their vigorous promotion of monotheism, they condemn all idols and idolatry.

Major Differences Between Christianity and Islam

The deity of Christ. Islam believes that it is a great sin to associate the nature of God with creation or humanity. Therefore, they deny the deity of Jesus Christ, because Jesus was a human who lived upon the earth. Allah is a distant, impersonal god, one who is transcendent, who reveals His will to mankind, but not His nature. Christianity, however, believes in a personal, immanent God, who is also transcendent, but has chosen to reveal Himself in the person of Jesus Christ, who is God incarnate. God is a loving father, who has chosen to reveal His nature to His creation, culminating in the advent of Christ.

The means of redemption. Islam has no concept of a God of love, who provides a redeemer to mankind. They deny the concept of original sin, believing instead that man is basically good, but prone to make mistakes. Muslims who sincerely repent from their sins and submit to Allah return to a state of sinlessness, not needing the intercession and propitiation of Christ.

The crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. Muslims uphold Christ as a prophet, simply in the line of Adam, Noah, Ishmael, Isaac, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, a number of other biblical characters, three not named in the Bible, and Muhammad. But in doing so, they deny the death of Jesus upon the cross, His resurrection, and His current rule from the throne of God. They deny two aspects of the three proclamations concerning Christ. To them He is a prophet, yes; but a priest and king, no.

The means of salvation. As there is no need for atonement or redemption, man saves himself by his own works (thinking that he can be sinless by having a strong character) and by following the rules of Islam. And rules they have! They range from practical admonition how to conduct oneself in humility, to incredible detail about daily life, to specific times and rituals in prayer. There is no sense of liberty and grace in Islam.

Liberty and freedom. Due to the intense pressure to follow the rules, and the absence of a sense of liberty and grace, Islamic societies tend toward dictatorship, totalitarianism, and despotism. The master/servant relationship is promoted in every area of life, and the cultural and societal implications are huge. Christianity, however, has provided the philosophical and practical foundation for the rise of freedom and liberty.10

Compassion. Islam is also not known for its compassion and works of mercy to the poor and needy as Christianity is. In Jesus, Christians have the perfect ideal of One who reached down to the lowest of the low, Himself tasting hostility, persecution, and injustice from man. He knew what it was to be tortured, abandoned, spit upon, and finally apprehended and killed. This understanding of Christ has enabled His disciples to emulate Him, reaching out to the dying, the wounded, the downcast, the underprivileged, and the poor, and to give them a helping hand.

The marriage relationship. The master/slave relationship between husbands and wives in Islam provides men with the permission to beat their wives, divorce them freely by only saying 'I divorce you' several times, perform female circumcision, and to practice polygamy. Muhammad himself had a number of wives, including one who was six years old. This incestuous relationship has provided cover for female abduction, rape, and incest, perpetrated by young Muslim men.

The biblical understanding of the marriage relationship is modeled after Christ Himself, who gave Himself for His bride, the church. So also husbands are to love and give themselves for their wives. The Christian marriage relationship, while requiring submission from the wives to the husbands, also requires that the husband love his wife, and treat her as being one with him. The wife is an heir of the grace of life with her husband.

Civil law. There is a vast difference between the civil code of Islam and that of Christianity. The biblical norm is that the punishment is to be commensurate with the crime; the maximum is 'an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' However, Sharia (Islamic) law requires the right hand of a thief to be cut off at the wrist. While restitution is the penal code for theft in the Bible, mutilation is the Islamic penalty, even if the thief restores the stolen item.

Expansion through military conquest. Historically, Islam has advanced by military conquest and subjugation--aligning the House of Islam against the House of War. When a country is conquered, Muslims reach for the seats of power and seek to coerce the nation into submission, prohibiting the propagation of other religions, and forcing the nation to submit to Islamic law.

Christianity, however, though not without imperfections and mistakes, seeks to win the nations by evangelism, service to the poor and downtrodden, civil service, and seeking to promote the good and well-being of the nation. While believing that the Bible gives direction on all matters, including civil issues, Christians believe that biblical laws should be embraced from the ground up, not imposed merely by fiat upon an unwilling populace. The Scripture also specifically requires the acceptance and protection of the stranger and foreigner.

There are many more, but these are some of the primary differences.

The Justification for Terrorism

One of the distinguishing characteristics of Islamic fundamentalism in the last thirty years is the practice of terrorism. A partial list condensed from the timetable in World (October 27, 2001, pp. 38-46) follows:

September 6, 1970. People's Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) terrorists seize four airliners at the beginning of what would become known as 'Black September.' The hijackers demanded the release of Palestinian prisoners, and blew up a plane in Cairo after releasing the passengers and crew.

September 5, 1972. Eight 'Black September' terrorists take nine Israeli athletes hostage and kill two others at the Olympics in Munich, Germany.

October 10, 1981 Terrorists jump off a parade vehicle during a parade in Egypt, firing weapons and throwing grenades, killing Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, and injuring twenty others.

October 23, 1983. A truck loaded with explosives crashed into the U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut, killing 241 US servicemen as they slept. Islamic Jihad claims responsibility.

August 8, 1998. More than 300 people are killed and more than 5,000 injured in bombings of the U.S. embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Osama bin Laden's network is suspected.

October 12, 2000. A pair of suicide bombers pull up beside the USS Cole in a small boat, blasting a 40x40' hole in the ship, killing 17 and injuring 39. Again, Osama bin Laden's group is suspected.

September 11, 2001 Four airliners are hijacked. Two fly into the World Trade Towers, causing their collapse, one flies into the Pentagon, and the hijackers in the other plane are overpowered by heroic efforts of the passengers and it crashes into a field in Western Pennsylvania. Again, bin Laden's network is implicated.

While traditional Islam has not considered self-martyrdom or suicide as a guarantor of immediate bliss in Paradise, there are verses in the Quran that promise good things to all who die in a campaign to spread Islam (Quran 22:58). Some of Muhammad's teachings, known as Hadith sayings, indicate that those who die fighting for Allah receive special benefits. This has been enlarged upon by Islamic fundamentalists, who fill the minds of men with promises of paradise and black eyed maidens if they die in the cause of Allah.

The decadence of Western civilization in its undesirable elements, such as the filth from Hollywood and the promiscuity and nakedness of the culture, has inspired Muslim thinkers and writers to react vociferously and vehemently against the encroachment of European and American culture. This provides some justification even among moderate Muslims for the terroristic elements among Islam.

The formation of the state of Israel has galvanized Muslims, unifying them in opposition to the Jews. Some extend that opposition to those who support Israel, such as the U.S. and Britain. This brings up the example of Muhammad and his treatment of Jews, and rallies the Muslims to commit atrocities against Jews and those who support or ally themselves with them.

Because the terrorists have been so effective in disrupting other nations, many moderate Muslims, while opposing the terrorists theologically, have been less than willing to denounce those who have been practicing terrorism with such an effect.

Ultimately, however, terrorists are inspired by their literal interpretation of the Quran, and by the example of Muhammad and his successors. They seek to regain their former days of glory as a world power, and willingly sell out to this cause, even to the point of death.

The Territorial Ambitions of Reviving Ancient Empires

Many of the lands now inhabited by Islam were world powers at one point in human history. This past glory and the desire to reclaim it has ignited a strong militaristic desire among a number of leaders. Combined with the powder keg of Islamic ambition, this potent mix stirs in their blood and rallies their troops.

For example: Ancient Babylon was situated in the region that is now Iraq. Early in his tenure, Saddam Hussein announced his intention to restore Iraq's Babylonian heritage. The mystique of Assyria, another ancient world power, still holds sway over the people of the region, particularly in Syria who view themselves as the heir to Ninevah's legacy (although the ruins of Ninevah actually lie outside of Syria's borders). Iran retains its ambition to be like ancient Persia. The Taliban in Afghanistan invoked their inspiration from the conquerors Genghis Khan, Tamerlane, and Babur.

These ambitions, even though they are mixed with the paganism, provide the fuel for the enlargement of their territory and the overthrow of other nations under the banner of Allah.

An Overview of Islamic Nations Today

Nations where Muslims comprise 89-100% of the population include: Western Sahara, Mauritania, Morocco, Mali, Algeria, Libya, Egypt, Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, Omar, Somalia, and Kuwait.

Nations where Muslims comprise 51-88% include: Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Niger, and Sudan.

Muslims are numerous on every continent: Africa, 308 million; Asia, 778 million; Europe, 32 million; Latin America, 1.3 million. North America, 5.5 million; Oceania, 385 thousand. This adds up to a total of 1.1 billion Muslims worldwide.

A Christian Response to the Spread of Islam

As there are over 1 billion Muslims in the world today, the task before us as Christians is monumental. Not only are we to consider the state of other nations in their relationship to the Gospel, but we are also to understand and give biblical guidance as to the course that our own nation should take in its response to Islam.

Christian men are to be fully equipped to understand the Word of God, and to apply it to our daily needs, situations, ethics, problems, and crises. Our nation and the church desperately needs 'men of Issachar'--men who know what the nation and the church need to do in our time.

On the basis of the foregoing, the need for action is quite acute. Islam is expanding with fervent missionary zeal, and is set upon the destruction of the Christian faith and its vestiges still found in nations, particularly in Western civilization. In this final section I want to explore two aspects of a Christian response: one for our nation, and one for the church of Jesus Christ.

Guidance for the Nation

1. Defend the Nation. It is the duty of a nation to defend itself from attack and to protect the defenseless within its borders. Romans 13:1-4 states:

   Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.

   Rulers are to lead the nation and be a terror to evil works and evil doers. This applies to both domestic and foreign entities. For domestic, this means civil punishments. For foreign, this means waging war when attacked, or when evil is committed against us.

   Rulers are ministers of God, carrying out God's vengeance. The failure of rulers to carry the sword is the failure to be obedient to God. God's will for rulers is given in Psalm 82:1-4:

   God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods. How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah. Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked (cf. Ps. 144).

2. Punish the Evil Doers. Not only is it the duty of the nation to defend itself, but it is incumbent upon the leaders and officers of the law to wield the sword of retribution given to them by God against the perpetrators and accessories of evil. This would includes military action and civil actions against terrorists and their supporters.
3. Fear the Lord. It is the duty of civil magistrates to recognize the authority of Jesus Christ over the nations, and to fear Him with godly reverence and obedience ( Ps. 2).

   This means that Islam must not be accorded the status of 'accepted religion, or a viable way to God.' I pray that he did it in ignorance, but the actions of President Bush when he invited Muslim clerics into the White House to hold a prayer meeting in which he participated were not wise or righteous. Christ has said 'He that is not with me is against me' (Luke 11:23).

   For Muslims to have religious freedom to pray is one thing. To give Islam official credence and standing is quite another. Our leaders are commanded to 'be wise'85by kissing the Son.' To give standing and a public platform to those who are against Christ (antichrist) may be a temporary politically astute thing to do, but it is a form of denying Christ. Therefore, our rulers and leaders should not give Islam any type of official accord or public recognition.

4. Maintain Alliances with Islamic Nations Warily and Temporarily. While temporary alliances with some Islamic nations may be beneficial for the purpose of rooting out those who practice terrorism, our government must never forget the essential nature of Islam--that its goal is to transform the House of War to the House of Islam, by force if necessary. Our leaders must also use the opportunity to pressure these nations to forsake their tyrannical and oppressive practices.

   In return for alliances, we ought to require the free practice of Christianity by Americans in that country, and require the opening of the door for evangelization, both by our armed forces and missionaries.

5. Promote Christianity and the Freedoms that Attend It. We are not just out to defend the American way of life. We believe that true freedom arises from Christianity and biblical principles, and we, as a nation, must promote these ideals and precepts, both in our own nation and abroad, as we have opportunity.
6. Do Not Oppress the Stranger. There are many Muslims who live in the U.S. Some are law-abiding citizens, and others are here to advance the cause of Islam by conquest and terrorism. We have established the necessity of defending the nation against those who aggressively act against us. This includes treasonous activities by Islamic people and groups within the U.S. However, the Muslims who do not espouse the militaristic tenets of Islam are to be treated justly and fairly as any other person. The Scriptures give guidance on dealing with strangers, and this would apply to the Muslims among us.

   First, as strangers, they are to be loved:

   He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt (Deut. 10:18-19).

   And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him. But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God (Lev. 19:33-34).

   Second, they are to receive the same protection and judgment by the nation's law as any citizen would:

   Ye shall have one manner of law, as well for the stranger, as for one of your own country: for I am the Lord your God (Lev. 24:22).

   Thou shalt not pervert the judgment of the stranger, nor of the fatherless; nor take a widow's raiment to pledge: But thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondman in Egypt, and the Lord thy God redeemed thee thence: therefore I command thee to do this thing (Deut. 24:17-18).

Direction for the Church

1. Speak the Truth! Speak the truth in love about Islam.

   Follow the example of Christ as He dealt with the Jews. To the leaders, He spoke with strong, measured words, even using denunciation when necessary. But to the common people, He ministered to them as a gentle shepherd, teaching truth, healing the sick, binding the wounded in spirit and broken in heart. He was able to argue polemically and yet speak words of comfort and love, using simple illustrations so profound that He spoke 'as one having authority.'

   Believers need to give wise, biblical counsel to the leaders of the nation. This also means confronting those in authority who do evil.

2. Pray. Pray according to Matthew 9:36-38:

   But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

   May Christians be moved with compassion for the multitudes of lost Muslims. Pray for the various Muslim people groups. Pray that God would send laborers into the harvest field of the Muslim nations.

   Pray that we might be able to lead a quiet and peaceable life.

   I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty (1 Tim. 2:1-2).

   Pray that God would protect us and our nation from aggressors who hate Jesus Christ.

   Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith (2 Thess. 3:1-2).

   Pray that an effectual door would be opened into Muslim countries.

   For I will not see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit. But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries (1 Cor. 16:7-9).

   George Grant reminds us of the importance of prayer in the overall struggle with Islam by recalling the words of Theodore Roosevelt:

   In the days before American involvement in World War I, when the crisis of the Middle East had once again taken the world's center stage, Theodore Roosevelt urged the nation and its leaders to recognize the full dimensions of the conflict: 'Prayer is our greatest weapon in these or any other times. Best we not send our boys across the sea to face the heathen hordes lest we have a nation at home one in prayer. If history teaches us nothing else, let us at least remember what the Byzantines learned, what the Crusaders learned, and what the French learned; you cannot face the dread terror of Islam in mere human strength. When the quietude of the desert has been stirred, let all Christian men and women turn to the sovereign Lord. Let all Christian men and women turn to Him in holy seasons of prayer.'11

3. Evangelize. The world belongs to the Lord. He has commanded us, as His people, to spread His Word and Gospel throughout the earth. This is known as evangelism.

   An evangelist is one who proclaims the gospel; one who is a herald of salvation. The church needs gifted evangelists. In one sense, however, everyone who is a child of God is called to bear witness to the truth of the Gospel, and, in that sense, is an evangelist. This is done by a quiet word, deeds of kindness and love, and charity toward the needy. This is an important aspect of evangelism.

   Use every possible means to evangelize the Muslims. If God has called you, go to the foreign mission field. If you are not so called, support missionaries who are called to labor in this difficult and dangerous field.

   To the closed Muslim nations, pray, use the medium of radio, or volunteer in an organization that will allow you to enter the country for humanitarian aid.

   When disaster strikes a Muslim nation, use the opportunity to go with deeds of kindness, and to spread the Gospel.

   Do not neglect the Muslims in our own country. Islam is another culture. Be sensitive to their culture when you evangelize them following the example of Paul, who was as a Greek to the Greeks, and as a Jew to the Jews, etc.

   To reach Muslims with the Gospel, make sure that you are grounded and rooted in the Word. Know your Lord! Understand Islamic religion and culture. Know the challenges that face you. Treat them in a friendly, engaging manner. Muslims value friendship and hospitality.

   The power of a changed life is inestimable. The Muslim, not having been regenerated, does not have a changed life. Use the power of your own testimony to draw them to Christ.

   Do not be ashamed of the Word and declare the mystery of the Gospel (Rom. 16:25-27)!

   Remember that you may not see results from your labors: 'I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase' (1 Cor. 3:6). If we sow in tears, we shall reap in due time: 'They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him' (Ps. 126:5-6).

   The charge to disciple the nations is given unto us by our Lord in the Great Commission, and we must develop a comprehensive understanding of this great task. While the church has historically spent much time and energy on missions, the results have not always been satisfactory.

Conclusion

Islam is a force to be reckoned with, and cannot be ignored. Christians are to understand the times, and prepare for the present and continuing conflict with Muslims, as both are engaged to win the world.

I have attempted to give a brief yet comprehensive overview of the history, beliefs, practice, and global impact of Islam. As Islam has allied itself against Christianity and seeks to destroy it completely, we as Christians must understand our confessed enemy, and rally in the cause for Christ and His Kingdom. The task, while immense and overwhelming, is not insurmountable.

We are called to be ambassadors for Christ, to be faithful witnesses for Him even unto death, and to evangelize the world. Yet, it is Christ Himself who builds His church, and the very gates of hell will not prevail against Him. This shows the offensive (vs. defensive) nature of Christ's Kingdom and assures us of His ultimate victory. The redemption is sure; the victory is assured by the One who spoke the earth and its inhabitants into existence.

This is a time to call the church to renewal, revival, and a fresh relationship with the God of Heaven! It is His Name at stake, and His glory that is threatened. Let us do all that we can do, in obedience to Him, in glorying in the cross of Christ, and in prayer that God would arise and His enemies be scattered.

And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou was slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; and hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth (Rev. 5:9-10).

Ethan Foltz is the pen name of a Christian businessman who works to promote societal transformation through business and discipleship in Muslim countries. He can be reached at efoltz@dejazzd.com.

Endnotes

1. For the history and survey of Islam given in this article, I am indebted throughout to George Grant's book The Blood of the Moon (Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2001), to a special issue of World Magazine on 'Islam and Terrorism' (October 27, 2001), and to George W. Braswell, Jr. in his two books, Islam, Its Prophet, Peoples, Politics, and Power (Nashville: Broadman and Holman Publishers, 1996) and, What You Need to Know about Islam & Muslims (Nashville: Broadman and Holman, 2000).

2. The Middle East Bureau Report, November, 1990; as cited by Grant, The Blood of the Moon, p. 91.

3. Grant, The Blood of the Moon, p. 91.

4. Braswell, Islam, p. 19.

5. Grant, The Blood of the Moon, p. 108.

6. The Glory of Byzantine Rome, as cited by Grant in The Blood of the Moon, p. 109.

7. Al Sha'ab Cairo, July, 1982; as cited by Grant, The Blood of the Moon, p. 171.

8. Grant, The Blood of the Moon, p. 3.

9. Braswell, What You Need to Know about Islam & Muslims, p. 3.

10. For a further study of this issue, I recommend the book by D. James Kennedy, What If Jesus Had Never Been Born? (Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1994).

11. Grant, The Blood of the Moon, p. 171.