Religious Of The World: (Islam)

Religious Of The World: (Islam) “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:21 Islam is one of the world’s largest religions, with nearly 2 billion followers worldwide. Because of its size and global influence, it is important—especially for Christians—to understand what Islam teaches, how it views Jesus, and where it differs from the gospel. This is not an attack on people. Many Muslims are sincere, moral, and devout. But sincerity does not determine truth. Scripture does. What Islam Teaches: Islam is strictly monotheistic. Its followers worship Allah, whom they believe to be the same God worshiped by Abraham. Islam is built on: The Qur’an (final and perfect revelation, according to Islam) The teachings of Muhammad The Five Pillars of Islam (profession of faith, prayer, almsgiving, fasting, pilgrimage) Salvation in Islam is ultimately based on submission and works. There is no assurance of salvation—even Muhammad himself did not claim certainty of paradise. What Islam Says About Jesus Islam affirms that Jesus (Isa) was: A prophet Born of a virgin A miracle worker However, Islam explicitly denies: That Jesus is the Son of God That Jesus was crucified That Jesus rose from the dead The Qur’an teaches that Jesus was not crucified, but that it only appeared so. This alone creates an irreconcilable conflict with Christianity. Where Islam Conflicts with Scripture The Bible is clear on the essentials: Jesus is God in the flesh (John 1:1, 14) Jesus was crucified (Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19) Jesus rose bodily from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:3–8) “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” — 1 Corinthians 15:17 Islam denies the very event that Scripture declares to be the foundation of salvation. Grace vs. Works: Islam teaches that people hope to be saved through obedience, repentance, and Allah’s mercy—but never with certainty. Christianity teaches something radically different: “By grace you have been saved through faith… not of works, lest anyone should boast.” — Ephesians 2:8–9 In the gospel, salvation is not earned. It is received, because the work has already been finished at the cross. Why This Matters- Islam presents a different Jesus, a different gospel, and therefore a different path. The Bible warns: “If anyone preaches another Jesus… or a different gospel… let him be accursed.” — Galatians 1:8 Truth is not determined by numbers, tradition, or sincerity—but by revelation. Jesus said plainly: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” — John 14:6 Closing Thought: Christians are commanded to love Muslims, pray for them, and speak the truth with gentleness—but never to blur or compromise the gospel. Only the crucified and risen Jesus Christ saves. - More Joy Ministries