There are many similarities between Muslims and Christians. In fact, as a follower of Jesus the Messiah, when I am with Muslims I often feel more comfortable than when I am with Americans or other Westerners. My values are much closer to an average Muslim than to a secular Westerner. We especially noticed this several years ago while studying Arabic in Syria. There was a big difference between us and some of our European classmates (I only remember one other American, though, interestingly, we did meet a Somali who lived about a mile away from us in America).
As similar as many of our values are, there are differences in our theology, especially regarding our beliefs about Jesus Christ. Who is Jesus Christ? What did he do? It is the answers to these questions that separate us (the separation is theological – it doesn’t have to be relational).
This morning as I read my Bible I came across a passage that defines the differences between us. When I read this text my heart fills with praise to God and gratefulness for his mercy and compassion. I am really happy that I am reconciled to God, that I have peace with the Lord of the worlds. Here are the verses:
For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. – Colossians 1:19-20
I am thankful for your blog, and have learned much about Muslims. Many times the characterization of them is inaccurate in the media. As a Christian who is seeking freedom from the idols of a modern society, I can sure relate to your post. When I was in school I found myself making friends mostly with Africans from Tanzania, Ghana, and Kenya. I enjoyed their company.
Thanks for the encouragement Phil.
I feel you bro. I love hanging out with my muslim friends, one in particular is like my older sister. The gift of we have to share is too big for words; what love God has shown. I love your blog! bless you and your family. سلام عليكم
Dustin,
I’m not sure if I’ve commented here before, but I’ve been reading your blog for at least a year as I began making friends with Turkish Muslims in my community. These friends are some of the kindest, most hospitable people that I’ve met, and I’m inspired by how they live their lives and treat others. But yet as a Christian, I recognize major differences between our beliefs, despite how my Muslim friends like to emphasize our similarities. So, I appreciate reading your love and appreciation for Muslims while still acknowledging the major differences between Muslims and Christians. Also, I’ve been told by Turkish Christians that in Turkey (and perhaps other countries), in the media Christians are vilified and misrepresented as amoral Westerners or American spies trying to tear apart their country, etc. So, there is certainly a need for both Christians and Muslims to understand one another better and I appreciate your efforts to give a forum for doing so.
Thanks Dustin.