The world is rapidly changing. Western culture is post-Christian. Much of the world is in the throes of turmoil – ancient nations are tottering on the brink of collapse – uncertainty and confusion abound. While new ideas still fascinate many people.
In the midst of all this, the religion of Islam has become dominant force in many parts of the world and claims to be the final religion of universal peace. How should Christians react to this new presence, often in our midst? Just how do we form a Christian view of Islam? Does the Bible say anything about this subject?
Yes certainly, the Bible claims to be the unfolding revelation of God’s purpose fulfilled in the coming of Jesus Christ. So, any view we form of Islam must face squarely what Scripture teaches about the uniqueness of Jesus Christ.
• A biblical basis
To gain a Christian view of anything, in the first place we must gain a biblical view. Biblical Christianity is grounded in the historic person of Jesus the Christ, or Messiah, his life, death and resurrection. Jesus was born in Judea of the kingly line of David at a time when Judea was occupied and under the control of the powerful Roman Empire.
In his person Jesus fulfils the many promises God gave in the Old Testament Scriptures of One who would come to deal with the deep problem of mankind’s fall into rebellion that took place at the beginning of human history. This deliverer would be an anointed king, a Messiah, a Saviour and Redeemer – one who frees others at great cost. The Bible is the book of redemption and the Old Testament looks forward to the great climax of the sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection of the Redeemer, the Suffering Servant of the Lord; events that are explained by the final revelation of the New Testament Scriptures.
