One-on-One with a Muslim from Tanzania, Part 1

In order for the end to come Jesus stated, that “… the gospel must be preached into the whole world for a witness to all the nations.” In these last days, the Lord has enabled the church to fulfill the Great Commission by bringing various people groups from around the world to North America. Believers have been given the opportunity to engage these ethnic groups in one-on-one apologetic conversations. My recent encounter with an Arabic speaking Muslim from Tanzania confirms this point to be true.

‘Paul’ (not his name) agreed to meet with me so that he might be given the opportunity to dispel myths pertaining to Jihad and to find common ground among the two faiths. However, at the onset of our conversation, ‘Paul’ admitted that he was not a scholar in regards to the teachings of Islam and might have difficulties answering my questions. Though he is fluent in Arabic and is able to read the Quran in its original language he felt inadequate in his ability to interpret the Qu’ran. The purpose of Imams and clerics is to teach Muslims to overcome their weaknesses and to live in the straight-way.

In response, I emphasized that the Bible teaches that the role of the Holy Spirit is to reveal scriptural truths and to allow believers to live accordingly. Therefore, all Christians are able to read, as well as understand the Bible without the assistance of a church leader (pastor or teacher). Our conversation turned to the topic of the Qu’ran’s revelation of Allah. According to its teachings

“And they deceived and Allah deceived And Allah is the best deceiver.” (Surah 3:54)

‘Paul’s’ interpretation of this verse was in complete contradiction to the text as well as other verses that confirm this point. He stated, “The meaning is that Allah knows if a Muslim is lying…”

I interjected that multiple verses in the Qu’ran imply that Allah not only deceives but encourages his followers to emulate his example.

“Do you desire to guide those whom Allah has led astray? And whomever Allah leads astray, so you will not find for him a way.” (Sura 3:88)

“Allah will not hold you responsible for the mere utterance in your oath, but he will hold you responsible in regard to an oath taken seriously.” (Sura 4:89)

I also pointed out that all prophets of Islam do not lie. Case in point,  (according to the Qu’ran) Jesus is only a prophet and not God,  and (according to Scripture) He stated that Satan is the father of lies.

“Your father the devil…because there is no truth in him…Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature for he is a liar and the father of lies…” (John 8:44)

He along with other Muslims attempt to ascertain common ground by ignoring these truths and searching for less controversial passages that mask the teachings of Islam.

Nevertheless, the evangelist must be dogmatic about the fact the Quran contradicts the Bible.

They are complete opposites. Our discussion regarding the practice and teachings of Jihad lead to the opportunity for me to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.  I will address this part of our encounter in the next part of this series discussing my evangelism appointment with a Muslim from Tanzania.

Related articles

• Is Jesus a prophet or the Son of God? (prepareforthelamb.wordpress.com)