In Islam, Muhammad is the most important figure after Allah. What Islam teaches about Muhammad is not known by many Christians, and there’s more to learn than just where he grew up or how he started Islam (you can read more in this short biographical summary here).
Before we jump into some key teachings about Muhammad that Christians should know, we need to understand where we are getting these sources.
There are no sources about Muhammad that are not Islamic – meaning, there are no secular historical accounts of Muhammad. And there are no sources directly from Muhammad himself. There are only secondary sources of recorded accounts of people who interacted with Muhammad. They told others about what Muhammad said or did. And after several generations, their sayings were recorded.
Usually when looking for credibility of sources, we need multiple origins– primary and secondary. This helps erase the possibility of bias or incomplete narratives.
What does the Quran say about Muhammad?
Isa (Jesus) foretold about Muhammad in the Quran
“And remember when Isa, son of Mary, said, ‘O children of Israel! I am truly Allah’s messenger to you, confirming the Torah which came before me, and giving good news of a messenger after me whose name will be Aḥmad.’ Yet when the Prophet came to them with clear proofs, they said, ‘This is pure magic.’” Surah 61:6
As he was establishing Islam, Muhammad’s biggest competition was the Jews and the Christians in his area. He had to prove his prophethood by putting words in the mouths of the prophets of the Old Testament and of Jesus – things they never said.
It is incredibly self-serving for Muhammad to have supposedly heard from Allah that Jesus (Isa) foretold about Muhammad’s coming when all of the Bible (written much closer to the time Jesus was on earth) says that Jesus only promised His followers the Holy Spirit until He returns to earth. In fact, Jesus warned that many will come after Him and claim prophethood (Matthew 24:5).
Muhammad is an example of good character in the Quran
“And you are truly a man of outstanding character.” Surah 68:4
“And whatsoever the Messenger [Muhammad] giveth you, take it. And whatsoever he forbiddeth, abstain (from it).” Surah 59:7
Muslims strive to live like Muhammad because they believe he is the perfect person even though he was a sinner (Quran 28:1-2). Muslims learn about Muhammad’s life from the hadith, a large collection of Muhammad’s sayings and teachings. Devout Muslims study it diligently as it covers minute details and situations in Muhammad’s life. Muslim scholars consider it a handbook for life, even though there are many questions about the compilation process and validity (Answering Islam).
Needless to say, many of Muhammad’s behaviors recorded in the Hadith would not sit well with those who value human life. Muhammad is quoted saying how much he would love to fight and die in Allah’s cause (jihad).
“The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The person who participates in (Holy battles) in Allah's cause and nothing compels him to do so except belief in Allah and His Apostles, will be recompensed by Allah either with a reward, or booty (if he survives) or will be admitted to Paradise (if he is killed in the battle as a martyr). Had I not found it difficult for my followers, then I would not remain behind any sariya going for Jihad and I would have loved to be martyred in Allah's cause and then made alive, and then martyred and then made alive, and then again martyred in His cause." Sahih al-Bukhari 36
Allegiance to Muhammad means allegiance to Allah
“Surely those who pledge allegiance to you O Prophet are actually pledging allegiance to Allah. Allah’s Hand is over theirs. Whoever breaks their pledge, it will only be to their own loss. And whoever fulfills their pledge to Allah, He will grant them a great reward.” Surah 48:10
The Islamic confession of faith includes professing that Muhammad is Allah’s prophet. This is a lot of emphasis and importance given to Muhammad which makes him second-most important after Allah. He is the seal (final) prophet that Allah will send to humanity, and he should be revered above all prophets.
Believing in Muhammad leads to more rewards
“O people of faith! Fear Allah and believe in His Messenger. And He will grant you a double share of His mercy, provide you with a light to walk in on Judgment Day, and forgive you. For Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” Surah 57:28
In religion, faith is usually reserved only for a deity, so why is there such a huge emphasis on honoring Muhammad?
Every teaching about Muhammad is positive, revering, and highlights that he is the most honorable human to have ever lived– a direct argument against what the Bible tells us about Jesus (even if we only compare the life of Jesus, the Son of Man) without mentioning His deity.
Muslims are not allowed to question anything about Muhammad. Islam uses fear of punishment as a way to keep its followers from questioning anything they are told.
If a Muslim wants to ask why they should praise Muhammad so much and all the time, they will be told to stop asking or they will lose Allah’s favor. So it is much easier to simply accept what the Quran says and hope Allah stays pleased with them.
How can you talk about Muhammad with your Muslim friend?
Don’t start an argument with your Muslim friend about Muhammad, because that will only hurt your relationship with them. Instead, try asking critical questions that might open their heart and mind to examine their beliefs.
Why are none of the accounts about Muhammad written in the same century as when he lived?
Does it bother you that there are only second-hand accounts that were received many generations later about Muhammad and what he said or did?
Have you studied the life of your prophet to learn about his character and personality? I think this is very important when we are waging our life on a person’s message, don’t you think so?
Can I share the differences between Jesus and Muhammad with you?
Prayer for sharing the gospel with your Muslim friend
Dear Lord, please give me wisdom as I read and learn about Islam. Bless my words as I talk to my Muslim friend to open their eyes to the truth and make them examine their heart. Amen.
