Did you know that many unreached people groups in the world are represented in America because of immigration? In the past, most of these groups were in their homelands completely isolated from Christians, but now the Western church has direct access to them in our cities! Many of these people groups are in the growing population of Muslim immigrants coming from all around the Islamic world to America.
This is why it is so vital for Christians to tirelessly obey the Great Commission, in every season of life – even during election seasons. Now, personal conversations about politics and religion might make some American Christians shift in their seats, because we are taught to separate the two topics and keep them private. But Jesus calls us to live out the gospel in every area of our lives, even when the world wants us to keep quiet.
Elections and evangelism do not need to be separated. In fact, using the election to open up a conversation with an immigrant, especially Muslim immigrants, is easier than you probably realize.
Muslims do not separate religion and politics
Many Muslim immigrants are surprised by the separation of religion and politics in America, especially when coming from Islamic countries where Islam dictates the law.
Even for Muslims who are not new to America or are not from strict Islamic countries, their entire religion is supposed to rule over every area of their life. Muhammad founded Islam to be both a religion and a political system; the government should bow down to what Islam dictates and it cannot be separated.
How should Christians be proactive in sharing the gospel this election season?
What if every Christian spent the same amount of energy trying to share the gospel with someone new as they do advocating for their favorite political candidate? In a time where people would rather argue and separate themselves from those they do not agree with, the Church could lead in uniting people.
Every Christian should know that immigrants and Muslims love to talk about politics and religion. They do not have the same inhibitions about keeping their beliefs private; rather if you approached a Muslim and started asking them about their beliefs, they would gladly welcome you (especially because many Muslim immigrants view you as their “host” in America — read more on that here). This is especially the case for Muslims who are new to America, but if a Muslim is a first-generation American, then they might not feel as isolated in the U.S. and not view you as a host but as a neighbor.
Many Muslims believe that Christians hate them, and they will not approach us out of fear. If you extend your hand first, then you are taking the first step to break down the walls and show them love.
Start conversations, and make sure to remain focused on the most important topic: the true God. You can open the door by talking about politics, but this is simply a tool to lead them into talking about what truly matters.
How can Christians have God-honoring conversations with Muslims during elections?
Now if we start the conversation by asking them questions such as:
How does your religion impact your experience with American politics?
Do you vote based on your Islamic beliefs?
What do you think about American politics? (Very good if you know they are an immigrant)
it can be expected for them to ask you very specific questions about your political stances. By all means, you can answer them if you are comfortable, but always emphasize your Biblical worldview and how your relationship with God impacts your stance. Then, focus on sharing your faith, not your political affiliation.
What matters most is the person in front of you. This Muslim is important in the sight of God, and you may be the first person in America who has not avoided them or brushed them aside.
Make it clear you are not there to prove a point but to listen, build bridges, and share your faith about Jesus.
Prayer for evangelizing during elections
Dear Lord, I want my heart to be set on the right priorities. Let my actions and words honor you above everything else. Please show me where I can share Jesus with Muslims around me, so they can experience Your love. Amen.
