Torch, Fall 2006

Judaism — Christianity Christianity grew from the soil of Judaism and in most respects is the fulfillment of the prophecies and hopes of the Jewish scriptures. Theologically, Christians see Jews as “older brothers” in the outworking of God’s plan for humanity. Evangelical Christianity provides the most vigorous political support for Israel as a nation. However, Christians also see Jews as in need of the salvation provided by God through Jesus Christ, the predicted Messiah of the Old Testament (Romans 9:30-10:4). Conversely, Jews view Jesus as a prophet but not as the promised Messiah and consider Christianity a false extension of the Jewish faith. In spite of these theological differences, the greatest goodwill among the three theistic religions exists between the Jews and the Christians. Islam — Christianity Six centuries after Christ, Mohammed developed a religion based upon a strict monotheism and guided by rigorous requirements and responsibilities. Theologically, Islam conflicts with Christianity at its very core. Muslims believe that people are not inherently sinful but have an equal ability to do good or evil. Salvation is obtained by right beliefs and actions. Holding to the tenets of Islam, living a good life, and following the Five Pillars may provide a place in Heaven. Such a works-salvation approach differs greatly from historic Christianity, but does not explain the deep animosity Muslims Fall 2006 / TORCH 5 have toward Christians. Two crucial differences are at the heart of the conflict. First, for Muslims, Jesus is merely one of the 127,000 prophets Allah has sent into the world. The message of Jesus has been corrupted by Christians over the years. Jesus did not die on the cross, but rather was taken to Heaven by Allah. His life, ministry, and death have nothing to do with God’s reconciliation of the world. When Christians proclaim the deity of Jesus and the exclusive nature of His mediatory role in salvation, Muslims see this as a direct affront to the intricate moral code of their religion. Second, to heighten the conflict, the most visible evidence of the Muslim works- salvation picture is seen in the Islamic belief that there is no difference between public law and personal morality. Government and religion are one. Islamic law is a seamless system that is intended to govern all aspects of social life — public and private. The fact the “Christian America” tolerates (and in the mind of the Islamic world, encourages) immoral behavior in movies, music, and television is a clear indication of the blasphemous teachings of Christianity. It is difficult for the Muslim mind to separate the culture from the dominant religion of the West. The Muslim desire to destroy those