We encourage Christ-followers to engage with their Muslim friends and neighbors as much as possible; in conversations, visits, during holidays and special life events. But there are certain situations or times, like Islamic holidays, where we need to be careful about not crossing the line over from respect to affirmation.
How do we respect Muslims and love them like Christ without portraying an acceptance of the religion, ideology, and worldview of Islam that are not in line with our faith?
The best example for us on how to treat our Muslim friends is Jesus! Remember, Christ interacted with people who had various beliefs and worldviews. That did not stop Him from sharing meals with them (Matthew 9:10-12), having deep conversations (John 4:1-26), and making sure they knew He cared for them and loved them. But at the same time, He was truthful with them and sometimes very direct.
What is the difference between culture and ideology?
There is a difference between someone’s culture, like their holidays, food, and dress, and the ideology behind it. But in Islam, often culture and ideology merge together.
Some Muslims do not practice their religion but they stay Muslims to be part of the large culture where they have grown up. These Muslims are not strict about following the Quran or Hadith. Instead, they celebrate Islamic holidays culturally because their family does, and they wear a hijab because their mother does, or don’t wear one at all.
But there are Muslims who are devout followers of Islam, and they let the ideology and rules of the Quran control their lives. We need to learn how to react when a devout Muslim is explicitly practicing an Islamic ritual for the glory of Allah, so we don’t make it look like we approve of Islam.
If you’re talking to your Muslim friend about an upcoming Islamic holiday, there’s nothing wrong with telling them you hope they have a good time with their family– that’s a cultural experience. You may be even invited to share a meal with them during Ramadan for example, and that is ok. But wishing them a good spiritual Islamic experience during the holiday or accepting to participate in a religious ritual with them becomes an ideological issue.
How do I love someone without affirming their ideology?
There are several key biblical practices derived from Jesus’ teachings on how we can love and witness and befriend a Muslim without affirming their faith. Each of these practices are important when we want to share the gospel with a Muslim.
Pray for your Muslim friend
“But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Matthew 5:44
Now, this sentence is about direct enemies who oppose you and attack you, but we take this principle and apply it to every area of our life. Your Muslim neighbor is not your enemy, and if you are friends, odds are they aren’t persecuting you. Their beliefs and ideology of Islam are your enemy however, and if they are radical Muslims, they might think of you as an enemy when they take certain parts of the Quran seriously.
Yes, many of the Islamic teachings contradict our biblical beliefs. What are we supposed to do?Love them the biblical way and pray for them. Praying for them is key, because we are not in control of the work the Lord could be doing in their heart when you are not around them. Prayers help soften your heart for them, so when you do have disagreements, you are quicker to forgive and move on.
Stay true to your beliefs
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
Do not try to dim your light when you are around your Muslim friend. Pray before your meals like you always do. Ask them how you can pray for them. Ask them questions about their beliefs and share yours so their heart can be exposed to the truth of the gospel!
The impact of sharing the gospel with someone can be lessened if they look at your life and do not see Jesus clearly at work. Be true to your relationship with Christ, and that, with your words, will be a testimony to Muslims.
Sometimes we need to be blunt and direct
“Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; this man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:1-3
Sometimes we do have to say it how it is. Jesus didn’t cut corners with Nicodemus to protect his feelings; He got right to the point and cut out the superfluous compliments. Jesus points out where Nicodemus lacks in understanding about God, and they continue to have a conversation about it and go into more detail.
There must come a time in your relationship, when the Holy Spirit will prompt you to sit down with your Muslim friend and have a direct conversation about their faith and salvation. Do not postpone this as you may not always have the opportunity!
Be careful around Islamic holidays
As mentioned at the beginning of this blog, Islamic holidays are a particularly sensitive time when Christians should be careful. Take Ramadan for example, because it is a month-long mandatory fast for Muslims, there is extensive opportunity for Christians to connect with their Muslim friends.
However, we don’t want to wish our friends to have a blessed Ramadan, because it is directly related to fasting for Allah’s favor. Instead, you want to tell them you hope they have a good time connecting with family and friends during this month. This is just one way you can be a good friend while not affirming beliefs that contradict your own.
Since we used Ramadan as a large example, you can find more posts about that holiday here: Ramadan blog post library
Prayer for loving Muslims without affirming Islam
Dear Lord, please help me balance this part of my relationship with my Muslim friend. I want to show them love, but I also want their heart to be opened to the truth. Show me how I can be a good friend without affirming their beliefs in Allah. Amen.
