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Building Bridges: Christianity and Islam by Fouad Elias Accad (Book Summary)
December 30, 2010
Tags (key words): Building Bridges: Christianity and Islam ,
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Written on December 1, 2009 at 2:16 pm by Samuel
Submitters Note
The submitter is NOT a “religious evangelist” (but is “a spiritual human being“), who wants to try to convert people to his brand of faith. But as he learns himself about different religions, he merely wants readers to think about these “rather heavy” matters, if that is their interest. In addition, the submitter strives to attempt in some small way to dispel major misunderstanding …and in sharing he too learns about these two (enough “toos”there) great religions..
And in so doing his own truths and beliefs are validated
I understand that many Muslims, not having access to, nor having read the Bible are fascinated by the figure of Jesus. Perhaps in sharing these words of Fouad Elias Accad , my wish, my fervent hope, is that both Christians and Muslims will have the authority and eternal presence of Jesus Christ elevated and perhaps even feel the living presence, the Spirit of Christ himself
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Reaching Out to Muslims
There is a growing Muslim population in North American and many Christ followers may feel intimidated or ignorant in knowing how to engage with this population regarding matters of life and faith. Following is some advice and suggestions in beginning and maintaining this dialogue.
Much of this material is adapted from a excellent book by Fouad Elias Accad entitled Building Bridges: Christianity and Islam. When I first picked up this book I was apprehensive – wondering if it would stay true to a fundamental evangelical approach to missions and evangelism. In my opinion, there is no compromise in truth that salvation is through Christ alone by grace through faith. Mr. Accad merely gives us methods, reminders and cautions, so that this message may be received by Muslims. Remember their intimidation may be greater than yours.
Relationships, Relationships, Relationships.
If the Muslim has not had time to develop respect for a Christian friend and vice versa, most conversations are always futile. But if the Christian has worked on building a close relationship and understanding his Muslim friend for a good period of time, there will be an immensely different Response (Accad, pg. 31).
Learn from the person.
Towrah = Old Testament, Zabur = Psalms and Injeel = New Testament.
Koran consists of one book with a different title for each of its 114 chapters.
Establish common ground where there is.
Muslim means “surrendered to God”. As Christ followers we can agree with this – we are surrendered to God through the sacrifice of Messiah Isa (Christ).
Some of us conclude that other people have worthless religious practices. The fact is, we have failed to realize that those people only do these things in an effort to please God, whom they appreciate and revere about everything else. Think of sincere Muslims. They give to the poor. They fast from dawn to sundown for a whole month every year. They stop whatever they are doing five times a day to pray (Accad, pg. 21).
Of the four gospels Matthew seems to be the most appropriate for Muslims to being reading
(Accad, pg. 73).Using the Koran successfully, to help Muslims journey towards Christ, hinges on being able to show that its real intention was pro-Bible, pro-Christ and pro-Christian. Most translations of the Koran add traditional Muslim interpretations, injecting what Muslim scholars have taught over the years. A biased translation/interpretation of the Koran will only obscure this, be much less useless (Accad, pg. 61) and make this method difficult for the uninformed Christ follower.
Caution: Be wise as serpents – harmless as doves.
If we’re going to building bridges to Christ for the worldwide Muslim population, we desperately need to use a method that taps into their very real desire to please God
Saying “God’s Son” (eg. John 3:16) without explanation – when a Muslim hears that he assumes that you mean that God had intercourse with a woman who might happen to have Mary, Jesus’ mother (Accad, pg. 9).
Muslims believe there is one way – God’s way. So if someone comes saying “Islam is wrong. ‘Allah is not God’. You have to accept Jesus, God’s Son. He’s the only way to God.” A Muslim turns him off at once, because he is contradicting what the Muslim has been taught as God’s holy truth. (Accad, pg. 
Do you believe that Mohammad was a prophet? Answer: If you mean ‘Do I believe that Muhammad is a prophet like ________ believe it? Then my answer is no. But if you mean, ‘Do I believe that his was a prophet like the verse in the Koran says he was?’ then my answer is yes. See Poets 26:194-195 – “It says he was a warner in a clear Arabic tongue”. This approach uses a Muslims immense respect for Koran to move them to the point of being willing to study the Bible and eventually present a more accurate and appealing profile of Jesus Christ. (Accad, pg. 38)
Isaac or Ishmael: The only passage in the Koran that talks of this is Rangers 37:101-109. Note that the son is not named.
Baptism
…. But unfortunately our methods of communicating these truths in the past have so offended the vast majority of Muslims that they totally close their minds and become hostile to us. (Accad, pg. 11). It is important not to violate their high regard for Islam or the Koran. Even though you may make it quite clear that you love God, if you state reservations about either Islam or the Koran you are automatically suspect, and others will probably not open themselves up to your friendship. (Accad, pg. 36).Follow the Seven Principles.
This is a radically different, scriptural means of telling Muslims who Christ actually is and why he occupies such a prominent place in their Koran – without alienating them from their native culture
Reminders in using the Exposure to all the information from the 7 principles at once could turn someone against the individual ideas contained in them. Go through them one at time – don’t move onto the next one until your Muslim has fully understand and agreed with you on the current one.
The 7 Principles
:. (Accad, pg. 11).i. God has a purpose for your life.
ii. Sin separates us from God.
iii. We can’t save ourselves
iv. The cross is the bridge to life
v. God’s provision is a person
vi. Making Him ours
vii. What to Expect when we accept God’s Gift.
* Accad, Fouad Elias. Building Bridges: Christianity and Islam. Nav Press, Colorado Springs, CO 1997.
Description:
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Islam is a growing religion in America with 5-8 million adherents here. Some sources say that it is the second biggest religion in the United States behind Christianity. That is why I believe we need resources as Christians to help us understand Muslims and how to reach out to them. This is where Building Bridges comes in very useful.
Accad shows Christians how to use the Qur’an as a bridge to the Bible and to faith in Jesus Christ in a short and concise way. The book is less than 160 pages and most chapters are around 10-12 pages in length. One can easily read a chapter a day. .
Accad gives the reader seven principles to share with Muslims. These include: God has a purpose for our lives, sin separates us from God, we can’t save ourselves, and four other principles. Accad also includes a very important and useful chapter dealing with the question of whether the Qur’an supports the Crucifixion of Christ.
Just to let readers know, this is not an in depth look at Islamic theology or history. There are other places to go look for that., In fact, if you are interested, you can email me about places to find that information. Building Bridges is a great introduction on how to share ones faith with a Muslim.’
St Francis Magazine Nr. 1 Vol. II (June 2006)
St Francis Magazine is published by Interserve and Arab Vision
www.stfrancismagazine.info – www.interserve.org -
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The Gospel, the Quran and You
Khal
īl ‘Abd al-Nūr1Have you ever listened to a recitation of the Quran and been amazed at its beauty and
majesty, wondered at its abiding grip on the hearts and minds of Muslims? Have you
watched as those who love this book kiss its cover and touch it to their foreheads, carry it
elevated above other books and never dare set it on the floor? Maybe you have felt
yourself entranced by its poetry and absorbed by its fluidity.
Or maybe you fall on the other side of the Quranic divide. Perhaps you are one
who finds no intrinsic beauty in the book and certainly nothing that would merit being
called a miracle. Your emotions toward those who blindly adhere to its doctrines could
be better described as pity. You wonder how this book could have grown to such a lofty
level of influence in Islamic society and long for the day when the doctrines the Quran
espouses will be displaced by the doctrines of grace.
Whatever your perspective on the Quran, we cannot deny that it is a book that
commands the reverence and obedience of millions of Muslims. It is the single most
pervasive and influential piece of literature in the Muslim world. Its proverbs and
sayings are known to literate and illiterate alike. It commands a respect in Islamic
society.
So it is only natural that those who wish to commend Christ to Muslims would
look to the Quran in an attempt to discover there elements that buttress their
understanding of the gospel.
Surely there is a Biblical precedent for this. The apostlePaul felt at liberty to quote the Greek poets. He had no qualms about using lines from
poetry and then radically interpreting them making application to the gospel. Even John
the apostle utilized the Greek “logos” in order to present Christ. It was a concept that
would have been familiar to some Jews of his time as Philo of Alexandria had
incorporated it in his writings in some detail.2 So, why should we not find in the Quran
anything that would further our ends of making Christ known and then use it liberally?
The argument makes sense.
Two works which advocate a liberal use of the Quran in evangelism are CAMEL
(an evangelistic methodology based on a few verses from Sura Al Imraan) and Building
Bridges written by Fouad Elias Accad. Both pieces have much to commend them and
this writer does not wish to dispute the fact that a multiplicity of approaches can be
effective in evangelism. However, I would like to sound a warning that while the Quran
can be a great friend in communicating the truth, it can also be an immense stumbling
block. Those who use the Quran masterfully (and they are few) will reap the rewards
while those who use it in ignorance may be shooting themselves in the foot!
This is the pseudonym for a North American missionary who served in the Arab World for two decades.
“The Word of God [logos theou] is above all the world; and it is the oldest and most original [genitatatos] of what has been made.” (Philo, Allegorical Interpretation 3.175)
St Francis Magazine is published by Interserve and Arab Vision
www.stfrancismagazine.info – www.interserve.org -
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Shared by craig
About the submitter:
In his various writings, little by little, one mind, one heart, one soul at a time, Craig strives to break down and economic, social, cultural and religious barriers. Craig believes that whilst we should celebrate our differences, what we share in the form of our common humanity is way more important than what divides us.
He is currently “writing” ‘Jesus Meets Muhammad’.
The submitter’s blog (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) is at http://en.search.wordpress.com/?q=%22craig+lock%22&t=post and http://craiglock.wordpress.com
“What we believe is not nearly as important as how we relate, interact with each other… and how we live. Only when we can say, ‘I am first and foremost a human being, and second a Jew, Muslim, Shi’ite, a Sunni, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu ,or a Sikh…’ will we progress and break down barriers between peoples, nations and cultures, both east and west. Let not our beliefs , but our shared humanity (ALL of us) define who we really are. “
- craig
Together, one mind, one heart, one life at a time, let’s plant the seeds, the hope of a better and brighter future.
Building Bridges provides personal experiences based on a lifetime of understanding the Arab world as well as research and analysis of the texts of the Qur’an and the Bible to show the similarities between the two.
This book supplies the information, concrete examples, and insights necessary when dialoguing with Muslims. http://wisdomafrica.com/building-bridges-christianity-and-islam-book-summaryFouad Elias Accad , books, religion, faithBuilding Bridges: Christianity and Islam by Fouad Elias Accad (Book Summary)
A Book “Review“: Building Bridges: Christianity and Islam by Fouad Elias Accad
December 30, 2010
A Book “Review“: Building Bridges: Christianity and Islam by
(Paperback)
http://www.amazon.com/Building-Bridges-Fouad-Elias-Accad/dp/0891097953
Shared by craig
About the submitter:
In his various writings, little by little, one mind, one heart, one soul at a time, Craig strives to break down and economic, social, cultural and religious barriers. Craig believes that whilst we should celebrate our differences, what we share in the form of our common humanity is way more important than what divides us.
The submitter’s blog (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) is at
http://en.search.wordpress.com/?q=%22craig+lock%22&t=post and http://craiglock.wordpress.com
Islam and Muhammad: Sharing Some Information on ‘The Qur’aan’
December 19, 2010Article Title: Islam and Muhammad: Sharing Some Information on ‘The Qur’aan’
Submitted by: Craig Lock
Category (key words):
Submitted by: Craig Lock
Category (key words):
religion, religions, Islam, Qur’aan, Muhammad, Jesus, Jesus Christ, religious tolerance, faith
, beliefs, spirituality, unity of religion
http://en.search.wordpress.com/?q=%22craig+lock%22&t=post and http://craiglock.wordpress.com
Other Articles are available at:
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565
http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
Guidelines:
.”
“Muslims and Christians both worship one God. In fact, they have much in
“Those of us who long for (and are passionate about) the ideals of moderation and religious tolerance will continue to hope for a better understanding of complex issues between people of different cultures and faiths through reasoned and ‘informed’ dialogue in a spirit of mutual tolerance and respect.”
- Dr Robert Winston
SUBMITTER’S NOTE:
Craig is studying the teachings of different religions (to attempt to find more common ground, than what we probably perceive), as he researches and writes his latest novel ‘A New Dawn’, set in the tinder-box, that is Middle East today: To attempt to find ‘common ground’/principles between different religions and cultures. And as he learns from his research, is sharing these notes in an attempt to ‘enlighten’ (himself and perhaps others) about different religious faiths. My motive, my aim in sharing this article is to try to contribute in some small way to a better understanding in the West of the Islamic world.
These are some notes (in point form) that I’ve taken from an interesting book.‘ The Holy Qur’aan’ by Muhammad Abdul Haleem Eliasi (and English translation by Mohammed Marmaduke Pickthall) (My copy of the Qur’aan was published by Idara Isha’at-E-Diniyat (P( Ltd in New DelhiI
It was “lent”* to my by my good friend Lindsay, “the Prophet”.
* that’s yet another story, which may perhaps be told…one day!
I hope, I trust that these notes may stimulate discussion about the Qur’aan and Islam (in a spirit of tolerance with mutual respect) and may even challenge you (and perhaps even your deepest-held beliefs)… as it does mine in my research and study of different religions. Just to let you know that I am a “thinking” follower of the teachings of Jesus Christ (open-minded hopefully!) and my aim is not to attempt to disturb your faith in any way, but merely to think deeply about these central issues and discuss various viewpoints with tolerance (no cutting of my head or other sensitive parts of my anatomy, please extremists!)
Islam is the message of the Qur’aan
and it’s philosophy touches on the widest spectrum of life. The values of compassion, mercy and justice are fundamental to Islam. Islam is based on knowledge + action, to know the Supreme Being and His Laws. It involves the integration of thought and action. Also intuition + inspiration.
‘Fikr’
or self-thinking is highly commended, even urged by the Qur’aan. Ignorance is the source of all pain and misery according to ‘Fikr’.
Revelation
is the purest form of knowledge.
“He is with you, wherever you may be: and Allah sees what you do.”
“If you love Allah and follow me, Allah will love you…and forgive your sins (faults).”
(31:3)
The whole universe is based upon truth and there is purpose behind it everywhere.
Our fears and hopes should be centred in the Supreme Being to keep us steady and well-balanced in the temptations of this world, and to encourage us to be benevolent (Vide 85:7,56:7)
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WARFARE
“Fight in the name of Allah, with those that fight with you, and do not exceed the limits…drive them out from where they drove you out.”
(Vide 190-193:2, 8:60)
In social relations, Islam is for amicability, charity and forgiveness. (However, only Allah can forgive our sins). Islam persuades man to be generous and forgiving, exercizing full control and keeping revenge within proper limits.
GIFTS AND CHARITY: Islam is a religion of beneficiance… which begins at home.. Give donations to the poor and the needy, without any regard to religion or creed (Vide 215,273,272:2)
Islam calls upon man to make his life worth living well. Islam is openly opposed to the regime of capitalism. So it forbids usury and dis-favours interest. However, Islam fully permits business partnerships and approves profits.
“”he Grace is from Allah, and Sufficient is Allah as the Knower.”
(69:4)
So the first and last truth of Islam is:
There is no God, but Allah. Muhammad is the Apostle of Allah.
True relationship with God cannot be obtained without ‘Risaalat’ (the Belief in the Apostleship of Muhammad and His Love and Obedience).
*
Muhammad is the Final Prophet.
However, no special sign marked his birth, which was to change the course of history. Muhammad radiated all that was noblest in human nature: courage, unfailing courtesy and gentleness. His life was characterised by a continual search for truth, inner illumination and enlightenment. Muhammad was a mortal man (like you and I); but he was a Messenger of God. What is vital is to emulate the example of Muhammad, which basically is this: if faith in God and human effort move in unison, Man’s progress can be limitless.
NOTE:
Jesus Christ is also called ‘kalima’ (or the “Word”) in the Qur’aan.
THE DEATH OF CHRIST IN THE QUR’AAN
“”And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying ’Eli, Eli Iama sabachthani?’, that is, ‘’My God, My God Why hast thou forsaken me?’ And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit.”
(Matthew 27:45-50 NIV)
But the Qur’aan says that Christ was altogether saved from the indignity of the Cross, and as if by a miracle of likeness, someone else of the same features was crucified by the Jews under illusion. Says the Qur’aan:
(Verse 157) “And they (Jews) said, we killed Christ Jesus, the son of Marv, the Apostle of God (in the Knowledge of God. But they killed him not, nor crucified him; but it was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts with no (certain) knowledge; but only conjectures to follow, for a surety they killed him not” (Verse 158) “Nay, God raised him up unto Himself, and God is Mighty, Wise.” (Verse 159) “And there is none, of the People of the Book; but must believe in him (Christ), before his death. And on the Day of Judgment, he (Christ) will be a witness.”
(Vide 157 – 159:4)
“The ink of the scholar is more holy than the blood of the martyr.”
- a saying of the Prophet
“Read: In the name of thy Lord, who createth,
Createth man from a clot
Read: And thy Lord is the most bounteous,
Who teacheth by the pen,
Teacheth man that which he knew not.”
(S.XC VI)
“Man can have nothing, but what he strives for.”
Mir Moazam Husain
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While the Jews claim to have killed Christ on the cross, it is also a Cardinal point of Faith to the Orthodox Christian Churches, that:
(a) Jesus Christ gave up his life on the cross
(b) he was buried after Crucifixation
(c) on the third day he rose in body with his wounds fresh
(d) he met his disciples
and
(f) was afterwards taken up bodily to heaven.
In fact, this is the Belief which forms the basis of the theological doctrine of blood sacrifice and Vicarious Atonement for sins, which is, however, losing its force with the Modern Age, an Age of Action and Retribution.
Let us now ponder the passages quoted above (157-159)…
Three points emerge from them:
1. It would appear from (157) that contrary to the belief of Jews and Christians, Jesus Christ was NOT killed on the cross:
2. From (V 158) that Christ was raised up to God
and
3. From (159) that People of the Book must believe in him till the time of his death.
(I’ll do some more study and research on these points and will let you know my findings).
God is indignant if Christ is believed to be God himself
(Vide 19:5, 75-78:5. He is only an apostle, like several others.
It is to be accepted that Islam is the Religion of Truth, and Muhammad is the Apostle of God, says the ‘Qur’aan’ (Vide 171:4, 30-34:9, 27, 28:57,113:5)
Finally, the Oneness of God is the bedrock of Islam, called ‘Tauheed’ or Monotheism, and the reverse called ‘Shirk’ or Polytheism is the greatest sin never to be forgiven. (Vide 48.116:4, 119-121:5)
A FINAL WORD
After all this research into the Qur’aan, I have found that there are so many common eternal truths in both the Bible (both Old and New Testaments, as well as the Qur’aan). My own faith in Jesus, who he was (and IS), his mission and what he stood for is undimmed; yet now His stature in my heart and my personal faith in Him is even stronger. I find that I hold Him even higher in my “own little heart and in my spirit”, in spite of “minor” controversies regarding his death, the discrepancies between Islam and Christianity, which are turned into a mountain by so many adherants of both great religions. My personal faith is greatly enhanced as I learn that the Spirit of Christ shines throughout the Qu’raan too… and so into the hearts and minds of many many Muslims.
The Basic Books of All the Major Religions of the World claim authority, truths (eternal) in all spheres of human life. Exclusive?? A final word…simply let each One speak for themselves…and stand on it‘s own merits. Then, after comparative study and contemplation, each one of us has the freedom to believe what we want to, to choose to find and follow our own truths (God‘s, Allah‘s greatest gift to us). And this is perhaps the only way to settle the future of religion…
for all mankind.
May the Grace of our loving Creator care for and watch over you all… Always
Shared by craig
“There is neither east nor west, tribe nor ethnicity, male or female, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist. Christian nor Jew. There is only a God-filled humanity.”
About the submitter:
In his various writings, little by little, one mind, one heart, one soul at a time, Craig strives to break down and economic, social, cultural and religious barriers. Craig believes that whilst we should celebrate our differences, what we share in the form of our common humanity is way more important than what divides us.
The submitter’s blog (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) is at
http://en.search.wordpress.com/?q=%22craig+lock%22&t=post and http://craiglock.wordpress.com
“TWO CONVERSATIONS WITH GOD”:
December 16, 2010CHRISTIANITY and ISLAM: “TWO CONVERSATIONS WITH GOD”:
A follower of Islam, Ishmail (I) and Christine (C) a “follower of the teachings of Jesus”
The following is a short extract from a new “work” titled ‘BEYOND THE RAINBOW’, that is “virtually writing itself”
Tags (key words): New books, books, “Beyond the Rainbow”, Islam, Christianity, faiths, unity of religions, spiritual growth
*
“Faith is the light that guides you through the darkness“.
- Emmet Fox
Ishail:
“Bismillaah, Chris
* = “welcome in the name of Allah” in Arabic
So we agree on most of the above points, especially that there is only ONE God, the Creator of the Universe. “
C: “Sure! But where do we disagree?”
I: “Under Islam every human being must one day face God’s ultimate judgement for how they’ve lived their lives.
C: “So under Islam every human defendant in God’s court must face the ultimate judgement without the help of an advocate.
I: “However, Allah is merciful and will forgive those who deserve forgiveness.”
C: “The New Testament in the Bible also warns of hell, but proclaims Jesus as mankind’s sinless mediating redeemer – God incarnate who atoned for the sins of the world at Calvary. Jesus is the One who saves from judgment everyone who confesses his or her sinfulness through Him.
“Christianity consists, not in articles, creeds, or confessions: not in churches, memberships or fellowships: but in a Person.. Also there is the vital element of Grace in my faith.”
Ishmail: “Interesting, but Islam also talks a lot about the Infinite Grace of Allah. I’ll have to ponder that a bit more!”
Chris:
“OK. Now let’s get onto the ‘heavy stuff’…With Christianity Jesus claims indirectly to forgive sins (“Your sins are forgiven, go and sin no more”. However, He also says that only God can forgive sins (See the Lord’s Prayer – Luke 11,2: “Our Father in Heaven forgive us our sins (or tresspasses).” However, mainstream Christianity believes Christ died for the sins of the world and His death atones for sin. One just has to ask for forgiveness in His name… and all sins are forgiven. I don’t think Jesus claims this directly; however his disciples (mainly John) do (“here comes the lamb of God, who forgives all sin”. Also the famous Scriptures from John 3:16 and 17.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.
For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”
* New King James version
Ishmail: “The Koran says that God is not a man. Therefore he cannot have a son. Allah would never stoop to enter our world.”
Chris:
” But where in the Bible does Jesus say directly that He is God. He doesn’t! Jesus refers to himself in many ways, mostly as “Son of Man” and uses great metaphors like “I am the bread of life”, “I am the vine, you are the branches” and so on. However, He sees Himself as a Son of God” in his close, rather intimate relationship with God, the Father. He has a unique relationship in his union with God, continually meditating and asking for God’s help to accomplish things he couldn’t do on his own (“without the Father, I can do nothing”). He uses these terms as a metaphor, I truly believe… just like all of us are “children of God.”
Jesus puts Himself well below God, as He (like us mere mortals is continually asking the Father for help and/or guidance.
And we ALL have access to that Ultimate Source. All we have to do is have FAITH and BELIEVE.
Jesus is a focus for our faith. Something, Someone on which to hand (pin) it on… then go THROUGH him (a channel, a conduit) to God, the Ultimate Source.
As it says ìn James: ”You receive not, because you ASK not.”Ishmail: So can Allah ever be the same as the Christian concept of God?”
Chris: I suppose it’s different concepts and how you see the Creator of the Universe, different paths up the mountain… or perhaps they are different mountains?”
THE RESURRECTION
I: “Aha. This will be interesting… and I was looking forward to learning about this area of your faith, Chris.
The story of Christ’s death reinforces Muslims belief that the Bible has been corrupted over the years.
Allah would never allow such a godly man and great Prophet as Jesus to die in such a dreadful manner on the cross.
The Prophet Mohammed was a perfect example of an honest, just and brave human being. Though he was a man, he was far removed from all evil characteristics and strove solely for the sake of God and his reward in the hereafter. Moreover, in all his actions and dealings, he was ever mindful and fearful of God.”
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THE TRINITY
C: Yes, I thought you’d say that. This area creates a lot of misunderstanding even within the Christian world. There are so many strands among followers of Jesus and I suppose its similar within the fold of Islam. Sunnis, Shiites and all the other divisions.
I think the key point here is whether you take the scriptures literally or figuratively. Factual or symbolic? I suppose I’d call myself a “thinking, questioning follower of Jesus”, who interprets the stories and teachings figuratively, rather than literally…with an “open mind” (hopefully) to convey a a simple message (or truth). In short, I’d describe my faith as a “spiritual liberal follower of the teachings of Jesus”. In contrast, many Christian fundamentalists take every single word literally… as “pure Gospel”.
I: I think it’s great that we have free will in what we choose to believe …like choosing different flavours of an ice-cream.
Thank goodness for free will (of choice)… and no matter, the Bible and the Koran are both excellent guides for living fruitful and good lives… and the Koran is my “moral compass“ for life.”
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C: “However, I think Jesus would be greatly saddened by the divisions within the church today. Churches bickering about minor differences (“don’t major in minors”) and getting away from the core message of Jesus.
You are probably right, when you say that the Bible has been corrupted over the years. Apparently many writings were omitted through various decrees by rulers… and that is the unfortunate thing about religion being used as a means to control the masses.
(my mother often used to say that to me).
Incidentally, Jesus was not religious… but an extremely spiritual “person”… living in perfect union with God, the Father. He was continually asking the Father for help to accomplish what he could not do Himself. (So on earth he lived as no more than a ‘mere man’. (I think you can relate to that can’t you, Ishmail?).”
Ishmail:
“Like Jesus, Mohammed challenged the religious practices, the rituals and dogmas of the day. Both these ‘prophets’, I don’t think intended to start new religions; but were God’s messengers in history. However, their followers took up their messages and tried to convert the masses.”
C: “Incidentally, the concept of God as Father and having a personal relationship with God is unique to Christianity.”
I: “So this “God” of yours is different to our Allah?”
C: “I guess it’s what you personally conceive and choose HOW you see the Almighty… what the Grand Creator of the Universe, Infinite Spirit, the Ultimate Source means to you…personally! Make God as big, as Infinite as you wish?”
I: “Now to the Trinity, the area of greatest controversy within Islam and I suppose, even Christianity itself…
We Muslims, me especially can’t get around this idea of worshipping three Gods. It’s just like ancient beliefs (and Hindus).
Chris, what do you say to this? There is great variance about this within Christendom itself.”
C: “I think the key here is belief in the divinity of Jesus. Because with belief, you get filled with the Holy Spirit. We just have to ASK and its available to ALL people.
For me, its like seeing you, Ishmail. You are a man with a physical body; then you have a mind; but also a spirit (or a soul). Like the sum total of your persona. So you are three-in-one, made up of different parts, just like water, ice and steam are three manifestations of water (H20).
We humans exist in different dimensions: body, mind and spirit.
We are spiritual beings on an earthly journey
… or something like that.
Most followers of Jesus believe that His Spirit dwells with us. We just have to have faith and ASK to be filled (I ask for a “triple helping” every day… greedy and hungry!). Doing this keeps me sane and helps me overcome the trials and tribulations of daily life.
So we are not worshipping three Gods, but there is only ONE God, the Ultimate Source of Life… with an Infinite Spirit.”
I: “So you can’t conceive of God, as God is unlimited, then Chris?”
C: “That’s true, which is why I have to go through Jesus as a channel to God, The Father. As Jesus said: ‘No one comes to the Father, except by me.” and “I am the way, the truth and the light.’As ordinary humans we need a conduit to get in touch with our Heavenly Father, as God is inconceivable to us humans.
For me Jesus is a model to aspire to, a hope to pin on, even to cling to, someone on which to pin our highest (supreme) characteristics, the loftiest goals, values and aspirations. In short, the very best in life…the name and spirit of Jesus symbolizes endless possibilities… and each one of us is invited to partake in and share His Infinite Spirit.
I: “After all this, I see that we have quite a bit in common – far more than I thought. Both our great faiths, religions can co-exist peacefully. What we share is not nearly as great as what we think divides us… Muslims and Christians.
Thanks for sharing and I can now understand a lot more about your faith, Chris.
“Allah -Akbar” (Allah is great)”
C: “And same here. And God IS blessing you too, Ishmail”
*
“My belief is in the God who gives us responsibility for our own actions, who I see in Jesus Christ, who stated and showed in his own life that His purpose was to give quality of life.”- Michael Templer, Te Pahu (in a letter to the New Zealand Herald)
“What we believe is not nearly as important as how we relate, interact with each other… and how we live. Only when we can say, ‘I am first and foremost a human being, and second a Jew, Muslim, Shi’ite, a Sunni, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu ,or a Sikh…’ will we progress and break down barriers between peoples, nations and cultures, both east and west. Let not our beliefs , but our shared humanity (ALL of us) define who we really are. “
Sharing Some Information on Some Major Religions of the World
July 30, 2010Article Title: Sharing Some Information on Some Major Religions of the World
Submitted by: Craig Lock
Category (key words): religion, religions, religious tolerance, faith, beliefs, spirituality, religious unity, unity of religions, spiritual unity
The submitter’s blog (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) is at http://en.search.wordpress.com/?q=%22craig+lock%22&t=post and http://craiglock.wordpress.com
Other Articles by the submitter are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig!)
Publishing Guidelines:
These writings may be freely published, electronically or in print.
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SHARING SOME INFORMATION ON SOME OF THE MAJOR RELIGIONS OF THE WORLD
INTRODUCTION: Craig is studying the teachings of different religions (to find ‘common ground’/principles) and as he learns from his research, is sharing these notes in an attempt to ‘enlighten’ (himself and others).
Because … with understanding comes tolerance.
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HINDUISM
The Four Holy Truths: There is pain and suffering in the world – like birth, death, sickness, old age. Root cause of suffering is DESIRE. Karma is conscious action that has spiritual results. Karma consists of a persons acts and their ethical consequences + universal justice, a kind of natural moral law, rather than through a system of divine judgement. The struggle and suffering decreases as the individual acquires merit and wisdom during their life. Release from suffering. Nirvana is a complete detachment from desires and final nirvana is attained at death. Hindus renounce worldly desires. (Release = ‘moksha’)
8-fold path: right · views · resolve · speech · behaviour · occupation · effort · contemplation and · meditation. People attain a state of perfection. Through self effort one can attain the state of peace and eternal peace called Nirvana. Buddha ignored the worship of Gods, but did not deny their existence. What was important to Buddha was not the worship of Gods or of himself, but the following of his teachings. Nirvana is not a place like heaven, but a state of being. It’s eternal – the end of suffering – no desires and individual consciousness comes to an end. It’s more of a moral philosophy, an ethical way of life.
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BAHAI The nature of God is completely unknowable – he/she/it is transcendant to the point of total inaccessibility. Prophets are teachers – not saviours. God cannot incarnate himself and reveal himself to man. Therefore Jesus cannot be God. Jesus is seen as one of God’s manifestations sent to human beings to assist in our spiritual evolution. The raising of the body of Jesus was actually the coming to life of Christ’s teachings in the disciples, the restoration of their beliefs and conviction.
BAHAI work for world peace and believe in freedom of expression.
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MORMONS: Definition of the Trinity as 3 seperate individuals, God the Father and Jesus Christ being physical persons united in purpose; also a belief that human beings, can, if they live the commandments of God to the full, attain the status of godhood in future aeons.
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JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
The main purpose of Jesus coming to earth was to let it be known that he is supreme and exercises sovereignity over the universe. Salvation is only for those who believe in Jesus.
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MUSLIMS (ISLAM)
Muslims regard the Koran as the speech of God to Mohammed, mediated by Gabriel, the Angel of Revelation. They believe that God himself, not Mohammed, is the author and therefore that the Koran is infallible. Collection of passages revealed in his prophetic life – 610-632. 114 chapters. Earliest teachings – one transcendant and personal God. Last Judgement and social and personal justice. God, he asserted, had sent prophets to other nations throughout history; but having failed to reform, these nations had been destroyed. Mohamed was the last prophet. Monotheistic. Well ordered, harmonious whole – everything has its proper place and limitations. God presides over and governs the universe, which with its orderly functioning, is the primary sign and proof of God and His unity. Mohammed’s miracle is the Koran, the like of which no human can produce. Last Judgement:
The “successful ones” will go to the Garden (heaven) and the “losers” (the evil) will go to hell; although God is merciful and will forgive those who deserve forgiveness. Besides the last judgment, which will be on individuals, the Koran recognizes another kind of divine judgement, which is meted out in history to nations, peoples and communities. Nations, like individuals, may be corrupted by wealth, power and pride, and, unless they reform, these nations are punished by being destroyed or subjugated by more virtuous nations. Islamic Beliefs: ONE God. Thus it’s a monotheistic religion. Muhammed proclaimed that Allah alone is God and that other idols were not to be worshipped. Muslims reject the Christian concept of the Trinity. Angels, who are sinless. God’s messages were brought directly to Muhammed by Gabriel. God is believed to be too exalted to speak directly with men. Belief in God’s prohets: Adam, Noah, Abraham, etc. The Koran is believed to be the exact revelation of God to humanity. Koran is believed to have taken the place of all previous revelations of God’s will – only the Koran is considered binding. A trumpet sounds – the dead will be raised and judged for their deeds – going to paradise or hell. Only those who die as martyrs slain in the battle for Islam are considered to be granted immediate access to paradise. Prosperous and evil nations will ultimately be destroyed by God. “Islam” means surrender or submission to the will of God. Muhammed was closest to God, so his example is to be followed. Muslims believe in and honour many of the prophets of the Old Testament. But they also say that the Bible must have been corrupted; because it points out the errant behaviour of these prophets, and since no prophet of God would ever err, the Bible must be wrong. Muslims have high respect for Jesus, but the view that Jesus is divine or the son of God is, to them, the highest blasphemy. The Koran says that God is not a man, therefore he cannot have a son. He would never stoop to enter our world. Story of Christ’s death reinforces their belief that the Bible has been corrupted over the years.
Basic tenets – the 5 pillars of Islam: · Confession of faith · Ritual prayer * Obligatory alms – ‘zakat’ to help those less fortune · The holy fast of Ramadan: a time where there is no smoking, drinking, swearing, anger, sex – use month of fasting to draw closer to God and renew their spiritual strength. · Pilgrimage to Mecca, the “Hajj”. Every Muslim who is not sick and can afford must complete. It is a time when all are deemed equal before God, regardless of social or financial position. As part of their purification process, participation heightens their social status.
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Sharing a few personal thoughts to end off..
Finally, perhaps no religion can ever represent the Absolute Truth (because ‘Absolute Truth’ has a degree of subjectivity – at least I believe so). Rather, religions can be different paths to the same Truth, with God, Infinite Spirit, the Grand Designer of Life at the centre. (Like spokes leading to the centre of the wheel!
God’s greatest gift to us is to find, then follow our own truths.
It’s not so much what we believe, but HOW, the ways we live
Shared by Craig Lock (“just änother arm-chair warrior for a better and more peaceful world”)
Former Archbishop in South Africa Desmond Tutu: “We have come to a time in the history of the world, where we need to rediscover the path to
“A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends and when the soul of a nation, long supressed, finds utterance.”
- Jahrulal Nehru, first Prime Minister of India
“”It is time for people of good will from every faith, culture and nation to recognise that a terrible danger threatens humanity. We must set aside the partisan bickering between nations and join together to confront the danger that lies before us.
Let us seek common ground between peoples around the globe…
because what unites us is far more important than what divides us.
In our own little ways in our individual lives we can touch so many others and share our common humanity. And in so doing we can illuminate the hearts and minds of humanity. We must offer a compelling alternate vision for the world: a bright future of justice, tolerance, respect for other traditions and values and especially a vision of goodness and hope fuelled by the flame of love – one that banishes the fanatical ideology of intolerance and hatred to the darkness from which it emerged.”
- Craig Lock (inspired by and adapted from the words of Abdurahman Wahid, former President of Indonesia)
About the submitter:
Craig loves to share information and insights to encourage others to be all they are capable of being. He’d love to try to ‘build bridges’ (not metal or wooden ones, thank goodness!) between people, firmly believing that what we share is way more important than what divides us.
The submitter’s blog (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) is at
Craig’s new manuscript, ‘A New Dawn’ is set in the Middle East: In it he attempts to find ‘common ground’/principles between different religions and cultures and to try to make some difference in building bridges in an ever more dangerous, turbulent and uncertain world. A passionate story of
“Until there is peace among the religions, there will be no peace in the world.”
- The Dali Lama
These thoughts may be freely published, electronically or in print
“God is leading us to the light. What we learn in the darkness, we are to share in the eternal light.”
May you see God’s bright light on the road up ahead
THE BOOK OF ISAIAH (or as the Jews call the prophet Yeshayah ) *
June 7, 2010THE BOOK OF ISAIAH (or as the Jews call the prophet Yeshayah ) *
* The so-called Old Testament is known to Jews as the Written Torah or the Tanakh.
Key words: Old Testament, Isaiah, Prophets, RH Schuller,
Possibiliity Thinkers Bible
“Hope is the anchor of the soul.”
The Book of Isaiah is a beautiful example of God’s strength and the promises He gave to the people, when they needed them most.
God sent the Prophet Isaiah to forewarn and prepare the people of Israel for the problems that were to beset them. Like a novelist foretelling his readers of future tragedies and events, God sent the prophet to announce the coming captivity by warring nations and the destruction of Jerusalem.
Throughout the historical narrative of these happenings is interwoven the thread of hope – the coming of the Messiah.
“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign. Behold the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.”
- Isaiah 7:14 (New King James version)
Isaiah promises the people that the coming Messiah will bring them into a loving relationship with God (see Chapter 53)
In comparing their lives to the desolate wilderness area, the Prophet Isaiah promises that:
“Every valley shall be exalted
And every mountain and hill brought low;
The crooked places shall be made straight,
And the rough places smooth.”
- Is 40:4
God promises that even the most desolate and unfortunate life will become successful and productive with His power. God responds to our desperation. We can look to God for strength, for we know that the ultimate outcome is in His hands.
“Behold, I make all things new” (Rev 21:5)
Key word: “Salvation Is of the Lord”
“All we like sheep have gone astray.”
Key Chapter: Isaiah 53
“Also I heard the voice of the Lord saying:
‘Whom shall I send.
And who will go for Us?’
Then I said: Here am I! Send me.’”
6:8
THE DESERT – A GARDEN
“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.”
- Is 40:8
God will make the deserts in our lives bloom with new growth… with perseverance and patience on our parts.
FACE REALITY WITH HOPE
Whether your problem is big or small, don’t run from it. Instead, face it and give it back to God. Today face reality with hope, and begin to turn your life around. Remember, with God all things are possible!
Light in a Land of Darkness
“The people who walked in darkness
Have seen a great light:
Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death,
Upon them a light has shined.”
“Behold, God is my salvation,
I will trust and not be afraid.”
12:2
“Now go, write it before them on a tablet,
And note it on a scroll,
That it may be for time to come,
Forever and ever.”
30:8
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ON WINGS OF EAGLES
The psalmist compares God’s care for His people to the eagle’s wings. “Hide me me under the shadow of your wings.”
Ps 17:8
Attempt to do something great for God, even though you might fail, rather than do nothing and succeed.
“But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength.
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.”
40:31
“Behold My Servant whom I uphold
My Elect One in whom My soul delights!
I have put My Spirit upon him.
He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.”
42:1
“He will bring forth justice for truth.
He will not fail nor be discouraged
Till He has established justice in the earth.”
42:3,4
“I will bring the blind by a way they did not know;
I will lead them in paths they have not known.
I will make darkness light before them.
And crooked places straight.
These things I will do for them,
And not forsake them.”
42:16
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name:
You are Mine.”
43:1
“I will go before you
and make the crooked places straight.”
45:2
“All we like sheep have gone astray.”
53:6
“And He bore the sin of many,
And made intercession for the transgressors.”
53:12
“Then your light shall break forth like the morning,
Your healing shall spring forth speedily,
And your righteousness shall go before you;
The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;
You shall cry, and He will say,
‘Here I am.’”
58:8
Shared by craig from the New Possibilities Thinkers Bible
by Paul D Dunn and Robert H Schuller (published by Thomas Nelson)*
All quotations New King James version
”The time of the singing of the birds has come.”
“Hope is the anchor of the soul.”
“ I don’t believe in God.”
I know God.”
- David Rosen, Jungian psycho-analyst
