The Lord JESUS CHRIST versus Muhammad
A rather brief comparison of Muhammad and the Lord Jesus Christ, the Quran and the Bible; who the Lord Jesus is and what He did, their respective messages of salvation, and means of spreading such faith.
Does the Quran agree with the Bible, or is it proven to contradict the very book it supposedly is an extension of, especially concerning Who Christ was and What He Did? Did Muhammad preach the same gospel as Christ and His apostles, and did he promote the same means of “warfare?” Is the god of Islam the same as that of the Bible, and is Islam a religion of peace or violence? What does the Bible say about the Lord Jesus Christ, and what did He say concerning these things? This issue is a cause of much controversy today, yet sadly very few seem to be willingly to carefully examine what both original sources declare on such subjects. It is indeed of critical importance to know what the overall statements of both are, as it relates not only to the present days conflicts , but above all to ones eternal destiny.
This study somewhat briefly reveals that both the god of Islam and it's salvation are clearly contrary to the Author of the original and last revelation, the Bible, and thus cannot be of God. As regards the means of spreading and defending the faith, as Muhammad did indeed promote “Jihad” and retaliation by physical force and blood shed, then it is to be expected that a true Quran-believing muslim would seek to practice physical violence and brutality in retaliation against enemies and in seeking to establish submission to his god allah.
Conversely, in the true light of the Biblical Gospel of CHRIST, it would wrong for a true Bible-believing CHRISTian to practice physical violence or coercion in bringing souls to yield to their Lord and Saviour, JESUS CHRIST, or to defend the faith. Instead, having been "born from above," the believer need not and must not use the sword of men to enlarge of defend the spiritual Kingdom of the Lord Jesus in this age of grace, but as our real enemies are spiritual, we are to use the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God (Eph. 6:10-18).
In essence, absolute holiness and perfect justice of Almighty God is made clear by His Word, as is the absolute necessity of trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation, as the only perfectly holy Divine Son of God, who satisfied justice in His death on the cross, and rose to glory as mans present Savior and future judge! Muhammad, coming over 600 years after the fact, denies of both the Biblical Christ and His work of redemption, and instead substitutes his message of salvation through submission to Islam, which supposes man may merit Paradise, and that God forgives without satisfying the justice due us for our sins, which He did in the person of Jesus Christ.
This study will be divided into five main sections, comparing what the Bible says versus that of the Quran.
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The manifest identity of the LORD Jesus |
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The message of salvation (each one's gospel). |
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Muhammad's denial of both Christ's identity and His gospel. |
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The New Covenant message concerning retaliation, treatment of enemies, and means of adding to the Kingdom of Christ. |
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Muhammad's commands of regarding retaliation, treatment of enemies, and means of expanding Islam. |
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Type of kingdom and distinction made between “church and State.” |
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Biblical Heaven and Hell in contrast with the Quran's, and the eternal choice to be made. |
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A compilation of many of the clear statements concerning who the Lord Jesus is and and what did, and His commands given by the Holy Spirit of GOD concerning salvation, and the conduct of Christians towards each other, and the lost, and to enemies, and the secular government
Words in [brackets] within Bible scriptures are mine; likewise words within the Quran in italics are also given for clarification).
The identity of the Lord Jesus:
Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 16:13-17
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
For God so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten [very own, unique, one of a kind; uncreated] Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. Jn. 1:1, 14; 3:16, 17, 36
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation [final, complete and perfect payment] for our sins.
And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 1Jn. 4:10, 14-16
And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. 1Tim. 3:16
To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 2Cor. 5:19.
God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds; Who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; Heb 1:1-3
And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. But unto the Son He saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of Thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows. And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt Thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but Thou art the same, and Thy years shall not fail. But to which of the angels said He at any time, Sit on My right hand, until I make Thine enemies thy footstool? Heb 1:7-13
The Holy Spirit next expressly warns of “another gospel,” that contradicts the true Gospel.
But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. Gal. 1:6-9; cf. 2Cor. 11:1-4, 13-15
A false gospel always distorts or denies the revelation of the one True and Living GOD of Creation and of the Bible.
The devil. who lusts after God's honor and power, works to misrepresent the Lord Jesus Christ and misconstrue His true gospel, for it is the Biblical gospel of the grace of God" (act 20:24) which most supremely reveals the character and being of God. It is only in Christ that the holiness and justice of God are satisfied so that sinful man can be saved unto holiness, without compromise. ,
If man can somehow gain eternal life with God and escape Hell on some merit of his own, or if God will allow man into Heaven without the required righteousness (which no man has of himself), or escape the just punishment of Hell without the required atonement, then God would not be absolutely Holy and perfectly Just, as own statements manifest Him to be. But if sinful, yet repentant-believing souls can be forgiven on His righteous Son's expense (His sinless shed blood) for our sins), and be accepted on Christ's account (His righteousness), THEN man is reconciled to God justly and righteously, and empowered to live practically according to his gifted position, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And progressively so.
Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.
Only the Son sent from the Father, because of Who He is and what He did, is able to do what no religion nor secular power can do. Praise ye the Lord.
Death and Resurrection proclaimed; the central facts of the gospel
For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures [as predicted]; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. 1Cor 15:3-6
Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that He should be holden of it.
This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. Acts 2:23, 24, 32, 33
Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth:
Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him. 1Pt. 2:22, 24, 3:18, 22
For He (God the Father) hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. 2Cor. 5:21
The basic gospel message that the original apostles (approx. 35-90 AD.) preached:
"Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that GOD is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him. The word which GOD sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (He is Lord of all:)
That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; How GOD anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him GOD raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of GOD, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of GOD to be the Judge of quick and dead. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify GOD.
Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid these men that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days." Acts 10:34-48
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. .. did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart. (Acts 2:42, 47).
Muhammad's denial of both Christ's identity and His gospel
They misbelieve (are infidels) who say, 'Verily, Allah is the Messiah the son of Mary;' but the Messiah said, 'O children of Israel! worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord;' verily, he who associates aught with Allah, Allah hath forbidden him Paradise, and his resort is the Fire, and the unjust shall have none to help them.
They misbelieve who say, 'Verily, Allah is the third of three;' for there is no Allah but one, and if they do not desist from what they say, there shall touch those who misbelieve amongst them grievous woe. Will they not turn again towards Allah and ask pardon of Him? for Allah is forgiving and merciful.The Messiah the son of Mary is only a prophet: prophets before him have passed away; and his mother was a confessor; they used both to eat food.- See how we explain to them the signs, yet see how they turn aside! 5:76-79
....... and for their misbelief, and for their saying about Mary a mighty calumny, and for their saying, 'Verily, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, the apostle of Allah,'... but they did not kill him, and they did not crucify him, but a similitude was made for them. And verily, those who differ about him are in doubt concerning him; they have no knowledge concerning him, but only follow an opinion. They did not kill him, for sure! nay, Allah raised him up unto Himself; for Allah is mighty and wise! 4:155-56
[The accusation of Islam is that the Bible was changed to say such things as Jesus being the Son of God, and that He died and rose again, However, such a change would require an almost complete rewriting of the entire New Testament, and substantial changes of the Old, neither of which suppositions the abundant manuscript evidence, experiential proofs, or logic will in any way support in the light of the facts. Not one of the thousands of partial or full Biblical manuscripts that have been found (and those which predate Mohammad) support the contradictions found in the Quran! This is like someone today claiming that they have the true copy of the Constitution, but which was written recently and manifestly contradicts the historical one, for which Constitution original clear and consistent ancient copies exist which refute the latter version. True believers also can offer abundant cause-effect testimony to Christ's resurrection power. And if the predominant religion after the 4th century, that of Romanism, changed the Bible, then they did a very poor job as the Bible (which they once forbade the public to read) soundly reproves the aberrations of Christianity which the Roman church has historically manifested. (Mt. 15:1-14; 24; 2Cor.11:1-4, 12-15; Gal.1:6-9; etc.].
And we followed up the footsteps of these (prophets) with Jesus the son of Mary, confirming that which was before him and the Law, and we brought him the Gospel, wherein is guidance and light, verifying what was before it of the law, and a guidance and an admonition unto those who fear. Then let the people of the gospel judge by that which is revealed therein, for whoso will not judge by what Allah has revealed, these be the evildoers.
We have revealed to thee the Book in truth verifying what was before it, and preserving it; judge then between them by what Allah has revealed, and follow not their lusts, turning away from what is given to thee of the truth. 5:48-52
[If Muhammad here appeals to the Bible as a verifying source of Truth, how can Islam now say the Bible was altered to declare the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus, the Son of GOD, when abundant Biblical manuscript evidence from before the time of Muhammad exists, all of which testifies to the claims of CHRIST as being the Divine Son of GOD, and that He died for our sins and rose again to glory, as Savior and Judge? There simply is no real evidence to support these claims of Islam. (See Lk.1:1-4; Acts 1:1-11; 10:34-44; 1Cor.15:1-7; 1Pet. 2:24; 3:18-22).]
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The New Covenant message concerning retaliation, the treatment of enemies, and means of adding to the Kingdom of Christ
The
Lord forbids unforgiveness and retaliation, as well as "waging
war after the flesh" in spreading His Kingdom (as it is
spiritual, and to enter into it ye must be born of the Spirit:
Jn.3:3-7).
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of GOD. Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; ... if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Mt.5:39-44; 6:15
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. Rom 12:19-21
For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Rom.13:9,10
For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with GOD. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. 1Pt. 2:20-25
But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;
As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.2Cor. 6:4-10
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2Cor. 10:3-5
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places Eph. 6:12
Note the response to opposition manifest in Christ Himself and His chosen apostles:
And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots )Lk. 23:33, 34).
Steven's stoning because of his reproof of the Pharisees
Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which showed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.
When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep Acts 7:51-60.
Muhammad's commands of regarding retaliation, treatment of enemies, and means of expanding Islam
Christians defined as “misbelievers:”
They misbelieve [are infidels] who say, 'Verily, Allah is the Messiah the son of Mary; Sura 5:76
Relations and treatment of those outside Islam.
"O ye who believe! Take not the Jews and Christians for your friends (or patrons): they are friends [or patrons] to each other. Whoso amongst you takes them for friend [or patrons], verily, he is of them, and, verily, Allah guides not an unjust people." Sura 5:51
They would fain that ye misbelieve as they misbelieve, that ye might be alike; take ye not patrons [supporters, protectors, helpers] from among them until they too flee in Allah's way [are converted]; but if they turn their backs, then seize them and kill them wheresoever ye find them, and take from them neither patron nor help, - save those who reach a people betwixt whom and you is an alliance - or who come to you while their bosoms prevent them from fighting you or fighting their own people. Sura 4:91
And fight for the cause of Allah against you: but commit not the injustice of attacking them first: Allah loveth not such injustice: [other suras would seem to allow pro-active attacks, or make any attack an act of war.]
And kill them wherever ye shall find them, and eject them from wherever they have ejected you; for civil discord is worse than carnage: yet attack them not at the Sacred Mosque, unless they attack you therein; but if they attack you, slay them. Such is the reward of the infidels.
Fight therefore against them till there be no more civil discord, and the only worship be of Allah: But if they desist, then verily Allah is gracious, merciful The sacred month for the sacred month; for all sacred things demand retaliation; and whoso transgresses against you, transgress against him like as he trans-gressed against you; but fear ye Allah, and know that Allah is with those who fear. 2:186-187, 189, 190,191
[Such commands, to fight until the only worship be of Allah, can easily be used to justify world - wide physical Jihad, such as we see more of today. The word "desist" requires definition, as does trangress. At best, the Quran lacks the context, cohesiveness and consistency to yield a clear and substantiated exegesis that would prevent an ideology of world conquest by the sword, and at worst actually supports it. The second half of the above sura evidences another of the constant contradictions of the Quran with the actual words of Christ, who commanded just the opposite of retaliation and conquest by the sword of men.]
Those who believe fight in the way of Allah; and those who disbelieve fight in the way of Taghut; fight ye then against the friends of Satan, verily, Satan's tricks are weak 4:78
And when ye knock about in the earth [ye go forth to war in the land], it is no crime to you that ye come short in prayer, if ye fear that those who disbelieve will set upon you verily, the misbelievers are your obvious foes. 4:103.
The reward of those who make war against Allah and His Apostle, and strive after violence in the earth, is only that they shall be slaughtered or crucified, or their hands cut off and their feet on alternate sides, or that they shall be banished from the land;- that is a disgrace for them in this world, and for them in the next is mighty woe; save for those who repent before ye have them in your power, for know ye that Allah is forgiving, merciful. 5:36, 37
"War against Allah" can be understood to be non-submission to Islam and the active practice of other religions, especially Judaism and Christianity (Sura 8:39,40); thus the justification of violence against them by fundamental Islam, especially when it rules the land.
The truest meaning of Islamic submission is too often manifest: the suppression by force of all that is actively contrary to Islam, rather than being able to persuade souls by spiritual means to seek the truth, and believe and obey it. Though the former might be permissible if it could be substantiated, as it was in the days of Moses (that the LORD had indeed ordained a Theocracy, so that the religious powers also were empowered to rule as the civil power), but Islam utterly fails the Biblical criteria for such ordination. For whereas the LORD provided abundant, consistent and powerfully evident Divine attestation for Moses and those that followed (insomuch as they obeyed God), so that there could be no real doubt that the LORD had ordained Moses and the Theocracy that God established, the same was not true of Muhammad and his faithful followers. For whereas the Law was given to Moses in fearfully evident ways (Ex. 20:18, 19), and those who opposed him were dealt supernatural punishments (such as being struck with leprosy, or the ground swallowing them up, etc.: Num. 12:1-14; 16:1-34), Muhammad could only claim that God gave him revelations, and opposers were dealth with after the manner of men. Moses and Joshua, and faithful others (such as Gideon and Hezekiah) saw the LORD work mighty victories (even the angel of the Lord slaying 144,000 enemies), and which were simply impossible any other way. In contrast, outside of a few notable military victories that may show Muhammad an able commander, Islam historically has not seen the manner of Divine attestation that the God - ordained Theocracy of Moses, etc. saw as they obeyed. If Islam were the true religion, and an extension of Biblical religion, and it's religious violence sanctioned by God (which it must be), then we would have seen like evident, Mosaic - type Divine attestation, that would have long ago subdued it's enemies, and without having to resort to suicide bombers. Sura 9:11-14 promises as much. The excuse cannot be that the fault is simply with unfaithful leaders, as there must have been many faithful ones, unless Islam be a religion that defies sufficient faithfulness to see such Moses-type Divine attestation. Indeed, if the hand of God has been evident even in conventional battles, it has been against Islam, and in favor is Israel and other nations. The manifest evidence is that Islam is not ordained by God as the true religion, nor it's religious violence sanctioned by Him as if it were His Theocracy. Instead, Islam is an amalgamation of 7th century mysticism, Judaism, and Christianity. Which, like it's 7th century founder, seeks to use the sword of men to subdue it's enemies. Though in some respects it may be more viable than some pagan religions (insomuch as it contains some degree of Biblical morality and principles) yet it misconstrues the nature, character and will of the Living and True God of the Bible, and leads souls to damnation rather than Paradise, as they reject the Jesus of the Bible, and the ultimate sacrifice the LORD made for them, even His death and resurrection on their behalf!
Say to those who misbelieve, if they desist they will be forgiven what is past; but if they return,- the course of those of former days has passed away. Fight them then that there should be no sedition, and that the religion may be Allah's; but if they desist, then Allah on what they do doth look. 8:39,40
It may be that Allah will bring about friendship between you and those whom you now hold to be your enemies among them; and Allah is Powerful; and Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. Allah does not forbid you respecting those who have not made war against you on account of your religion, and have not driven you forth from your homes, that you show them kindness and deal with them justly; surely Allah loves the doers of justice. Allah only forbids you respecting those who made war upon you on account of your religion, and drove you forth from your homes and backed up others in your expulsion, that you make friends with them, and whoever makes friends with them, these are the unjust. " 60:7-9
[In relation to the above, one problem (among others) with the the Quran in general, is that is it very open to interpretation in the matter of violence due to it's characteristic lack of sufficient context (unlike the Bible). How does one interpret the above? What does oppressing or making war against Islam entail? Historical examples shows it can be widely applied. Israel, which lost it's land due to long disobedience, and which land finally became Britain's, and who gave them a portion of it back, is seen by Islam as those who drove them forth from their houses. Yet it was not their land historically, and it was Islamic nations who attack the infant Israeli nation, who, though being vastly out numbered, defeated their attackers, resulting in the loss of Arabic communities (who were told to flee their homes until the Arabs' were victorious). Most Arabic nations refuse to absorb Palestinian refugees, for mostly political purposes, while seeking the total destruction of Israel. While Israel has given back almost all the land it won in subsequent Islamic - initiated wars, yet Islamic nations remain almost universally opposed to Israel's existence, and many declare Jihad against America due to her rightful friendship with Israel (who has a historic right to the land, even though it's troubles are a continued chastisement because of their hardness of heart against their Messiah Jesus).
This issue is related to the above, for if Islam is the true religion, then according to it's own doctrine it would not have been under British rule in the first place, nor lost all it's wars against Israel. Nor will any victories against the post - Christian, and increasingly decadent west attest to her claims (it is too late for that), any more than Babylon's defeat of Israel by conventional means long ago proved it's religion superior. The Bible declares that the wicked are God's sword in judgment (Ps. 17:3). But God will in fact judge such for their excess cruelty (Zec. 1:15).]
Give to those who misbelieve glad tidings of grievous woe! - Except to those of the idolaters with whom ye have made a league, and who then have not failed you at all, and have not backed up any one against you. Fulfil for them then your covenant until the time agreed upon with them; verily, Allah loves those who fear.
But when the sacred months are passed away, kill the idolaters [which they often identify as Christians] wherever ye may find them; and take them, and besiege them, and lie in wait for them in every place of observation; but if they repent, and are steadfast in prayer, and give alms, then let them go their way; verily, Allah is forgiving and merciful. 9:3b-5
[While many Muslims sincerely insist their religion is a religion of peace, the ultimate Quranic means for such required a compelled peace (once in power) that did not subjugated true seekers and followers of truth that therefore could not submit to Islam.
History reveals that Muhammad's theology adapted to his needs. Initially when he was weak (before Medina) he allowed more of peaceful co-existence by ways of treaties, etc., but when he gained power he progressively sought to enlarge his kingdom by force.]
But if they break faith with you after their treaty, and taunt your religion, then fight the leaders of misbelief; verily, they have no faith, haply they may desist.
Will ye not fight a people who broke their oaths, and intended to expel the Apostle? They began with you at first, are ye afraid of them? Allah is more deserving that ye should fear Him! If ye be believers, kill them! Allah will torment them by your hands, and disgrace them, and aid you against them, and heal the breasts of a people who believe; and will remove rage from their hearts; for Allah turns unto Him whomsoever He pleases, and Allah is knowing, wise! 9:11-14
Fight those who believe not in Allah and in the last day, and who forbid not what Allah and His Apostle have forbidden, and who do not practice the religion of truth from amongst those to whom the Book has been brought, until they pay the tribute by their hands and be as little ones 9:29
O thou prophet! strive strenuously against the misbelievers and the hypocrites, and be stern [be rigorous] against them; for their resort is hell, and an ill journey shall it be. 9:74
O ye who believe! fight those who are near to you of the misbelievers, and let them find in you sternness; and know that Allah is with those who fear. 9:124
To believe in Allah and His Apostle, and to fight strenuously in Allah's cause with your property and your persons; that is better for you if ye did but know! He will pardon you your sins, and bring you into gardens beneath which rivers flow, and goodly dwellings in gardens of Eden;- that is the mighty bliss! 61:11-12
And when ye meet those who misbelieve-then striking off heads until ye have massacred them, and bind fast the bonds! Then either a free grant (of liberty) or a ransom until the war shall have laid down its burdens 47:5
Many commands are given to fight against unbelievers. Some Muslims declare (for now) that nations who have not made war against them on account of their religion are exempt from having Jihad declared against them. Even if Islamic violence can be relegated to defensive actions, making war against Islam can defined as a nation opposing Islam ideologically. Not only could Christian missionaries be accused of making “war” on Islam, but also Israel, by the very fact of their existence in the land which they contend belongs to Muhammad (but who failed to mention Jerusalem even once in his Quran). Muslim nations have accused the US of oppressing them not only by supporting wars against certain Muslim nations (who in turn have oppressed other Muslim nations), but even by scrutinizing so-called Islamic “charities” which support terrorism. So any who oppose Islam even justly have fallen prey to the invocation of physical Jihad against them. Which brings more opposition, and more Fatwa h's.
As mentioned before, due to the lack of context, cohesiveness and consistency in the Quran about many things, including, in this case, the criteria for war, and the lack of any overall teaching authority (Muhammad did not prepare well for his demise), much leeway can be given in this matter of violence. However, in addition to the Quran, there is also the Hadith, a collection of accounts of Muhammad's teaching and life that is considered by most Muslims as a secondary authority for Islamic doctrine, and a historical hermeneutic has emerged which supports a fairly broad criteria for Islamic Jihads against other countries. Being more of a purist myself, i have sought to use only the Quran as my source for Islamic teaching here. A more extensive resource which takes into account the teaching of the Hadith, specifically regarding whether Islam promotes physical violence, can be found http://www.muslimhope.com/WarInIslam.htm.
Despite the cry of western Muslim clerics who dispute this, in studying the Quran and the practices of Islam it is grammatically, historically, and contextually evident that these exhortations to "Jihad" cannot be relegated to simply spiritual applications, but that the primary meaning of such Quranic exhortations to fighting and violence are easily and often applied to physical Jihad. And not simply for defensive purposes as in traditional war, but for persecution of “unbelievers” as well as offensive warfare and killing in order to subdue the export of offending ideology, as defined by Islam.
This is daily seen in every country or area where orthodox Muslims are in control. Even in a moderate Muslim country like Egypt, churches cannot be repaired or built without the express permission of the head of Egypt (rarely given), and conversion to Christianity is against the law. Meanwhile Bib Laden types would war even against other Islamic counties that do not rightly practice Islam.
Therefore I could say, that in the light of Muhammad's constant admonitions to physical violence and blood shed in retaliation for wrongs and in furthering Islamic rule, and his actions in doing so, it can be considered inconsistent for a true Muslim to not practice such as need may be, after the manner of their father (Jn. 8:44).
This includes promoting violence and the killing of those who will not worship according to the dictates of Islam in their countries, but who instead actively practice a faith contrary to that of the Quran; primarily Jews and Christians.
Fortunately, most Muslims do not obey such injunctions according to their original intended literal meanings but instead spiritualize such away – contrary to Muhammad's often provided exhortations and example.
Likewise it is impossible for a true Bible-believing CHRISTian to practice physical violence or coercion in bringing souls to yield to the Only Lord and Saviour, JESUS CHRIST, in the true light of His Biblical Gospel. To do so represents either ignorance concerning both the clear statements in this regard, or the willful wresting of the same from their respective contexts cf. (2Pt. 3:16). It is exceeding clear that the new covenant disallows waging "war after the flesh" (2Cor.10:3) in promoting or defending the spiritual kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ in this age of grace (Jn.18:36; Eph.6:12).
These rather bold but true statements are designed to help one to better perceive the stark reality of evil - even in the form of religion - and to therefore turn from sin to the Lord Jesus. It was He Himself that was the object of the wrath of such religion, but Who laid down His life as the only perfect and acceptable payment for our sins. And being risen to glory, He is "able to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by Him" (Heb.7:25). He did not promote the shedding of blood to further His kingdom, but instead His shed His own to pay for all mankind's sins. So that by “repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:21) whosoever will come may be saved. Praise ye the Lord!
Note: for an additional but brief page on Muhammad's teachings on violence, with concurring Islamic interpretation, I would recommend http://www.faithfreedom.org/Articles/sina/preacher_to_despot.htm.
New Covenant type of kingdom and distinction made between “church and State”
Since Christ came and established the New Covenant there is a distinction made between a present earthly kingdom and a present yet future spiritual one, and between the church and the civil government. Believers in the Lord Jesus are placed into Christ's spiritual kingdom the moment they turn to Him from sin and receive Him as their Lord and Savior. It is therefore that true Christians do not seek to expand the kingdom of God by bloodshed or other means of physical coercion, instead they do so by decidedly spiritual means: prayer and preaching of the gospel in word and deed.
As for the roles of “church and state,” it is the true Christian church that works to bring souls to be governed by the Spirit of Christ (and conscience) dwelling within, while the civil government is (ideally) is to govern men from without, when they will not be so governed from within (and instead walk contrary to that which is Biblically- morally wrong). The church deals first with the hearts and souls of men, while the civil government deal more with man's actions, corporeally as need be. (But woe to the people when their government calls “good evil and evil good!” (Is. 5:20).
And though the Roman Catholic Institution has done much harm to the Name of Christ (both by her false gospel which seeks to make souls dependent upon herself for salvation rather than directly in Christ, and her historical presumption of secular power by force), it is entirely inconsistent with the words of the Lord Jesus to exercise personal vengeance or physical coercion against unbelievers, such as Muhammad explicitly taught and practiced.
In Islam, the church and the state are both one, and in the Quran physical retaliation as well as aggression is both allowed and encouraged in defending and expanding it's rule.
Many will say, does not the Bible in the Old Testament condone killing in the name of religion? Indeed it does, in more specific ways than the Quran. And though we are presently under the New Covenant, yet the time shall come when “the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are unGodly among them of all their unGodly deeds which they have unGodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which unGodly sinners have spoken against him” (Jude v. 14, 15). Christians will do well to remember such things, which reveal that not all religious violence is wrong.
But if we look at the Bible, which manifestly came before the Quran, for the answer of how religious violence can be warranted, we see a very clear answer. When Israel waged war by God's command, it was clearly evident that the Lord had ordained it. Through the 10 plagues of Egypt and the drowning of Pharaoh's army, to the cloud by day and pillar of fire by night, to the tremendous light and sound show in the given of the 10 commandments (and death of thousands through disobedience) and other miracles in the wilderness, it was unmistakably manifest that God was with them as they obeyed (and against them in rebellion).
Then there were the might miracles of Joshua - even to the stopping of the course of the sun - and of Gideon, Samson, and of David, etc. In such conquests, when the obeyed, they were always victories, when they rebelled, they were not.
In Deuteronomy 28, we see laid out before Israel the blessings which would come through faithfulness to God's Word, and curses which just as surely would be realized if they departed from the living and true Almighty God. “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live” (Dt. 30:19): Israel experienced both as they chose the former and then the latter.
Anyone who seeks to use the Old Testament as a basis for justifying religious violence had better be able to claim like consistent Divine attestation of 100% victory, usually be supernatural means, as they obey. Or they must confess they have failed in obeying. At the very least however, they will rise above other nations as the continue on the path of the just.
But what do we see in Islam? Though Muhammad did indeed have some notable small victories during the beginnings of Islam, the history of Islam as a whole does not testify of any real kind of Joshua type attestation of Gods commission. Not only have Muslims who have been considered faithful been defeated (even by other Muslims), and have been unable for hundreds of years to overcome enemies, but they can hardly be considered to be the head and not the tail economically of the earth. They have warred and do war against those have oppressed them, whether justly or not, and still find themselves among the poorest people of the earth. There is nothing wrong with the latter, the Lord Jesus Himself, as well as His followers choose to be poor. But Islam purports that it is an earthly kingdom and Theocracy, which should have like earthly gains, while the Lord Jesus clearly stated that His “kingdom is not of this world” (Jn. 18:36), which does not wage “war after the flesh,” but is one in which true riches are spiritual and Heavenly. For those within it, earthly needs will supplied as they seek the kingdom of God and righteousness (Mt. 6:33). Praise the Lord!
Biblical texts related to mandate of “Church and State"
Ye are the salt [preservative, flavoring] of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light (truth-revealer) of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch him in his words. And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it. And they brought it. And he (Jesus) saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar's.
And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar (the civil government) the things that are Caesar's, and to GOD the things that are GOD's. And they marvelled at him (Mt. 5:13, 14; 12:15-17).
Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear GOD. Honour the king (1Pt. 2:13, 14, 17).
But if ye do that which is evil, be afraid, for he [the civil gov.] beareth not the sword [an instrument of death] in vain. (Rm.14:4).
For though we [true Christians] walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds (2Cor. 10:3, 4).
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (Eph. 6:12)
By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,
By the word
of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the
right hand and on the left .. ( 2Cor. 6:6,
7).
TOC____________________________________
Biblical Heaven and Hell, in contrast with the Quran's
The Quran: a carnal, sensual Paradise and boiling Hell
But those who believe and do aright, we will make them enter gardens beneath which rivers flow, and they shall dwell therein for ever and aye, for them therein are pure wives [virgins], and we will make them enter into a shady shade. 4:60
[This again is in clear contradiction with what the Lord taught, both in that only on Christ's expense and merit can sinful man be saved, and that the after life is a spiritual reality. Jesus said to those who were likewise earthly minded, "Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of GOD. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of GOD in Heaven" (Mt.12:30,31).
What was originally applied to the Sadducees, is likewise applicable to Muhammad, who officially allowed up to 4 wives (4:3), though he had more himself according to the Hadith.]
O ye who believe! shall I lead you to a merchandise which will save you from grievous woe?
Then we know best which of them deserves most to be broiled therein.
There is not one of you who will not go down to it, - that is settled and decided by thy Lord. Then we will save those who fear us; but we will leave the evildoers therein on their knees.19:69-73
[It is stated here 2 things; That none one can have true assurance of Eternal Life, and that every one will first go to Hell; with those whom the Quran defines as evil doers staying there, wherein it is later declared they will drink boiling water, while their skin is broiled (new skins will be given them to perpetuate their broiling, according to Muhammad).]
These are two disputants who dispute about their Lord, but those who misbelieve, for them are cut out garments of fire, there shall be poured over their heads boiling water, wherewith what is in their bellies shall be dissolved and their skins too, and for them are maces of iron. Whenever they desire to come forth there from through pain, they are sent back into it: 'And taste ye the torment of the burning!' 22:22-25 [This is a poor imitation of the Biblical description of eternal torment (Mt. 25:41, 46; 2Ths. 1:8-10; Rv. 14:11; 20:10-15).
The Biblical Heaven
God's Heaven, prepared for the saved, and Hell and the Lake of Fire, ” prepared for the devil and his angels;” as described in God's Word - the Bible
Heaven is of an ultimately spiritual nature.
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Rom. 14:17
And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Rev. 21:1-8
And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. Rev. 22:1-5
For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell [speaking of Christ – Acts 2:27]; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt show me the path of life: in THY presence is fulness of joy; at THY right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 1Cor. 2:9
Below is described the sure Biblical end of those who sin away their day of grace, and die in their sins, having loved darkness more than light, even the Son sent from the Father to be the propitiation for our sins," and thus "the Savior of the world" (1Jn.4:10,14).
All that the Bible has promised has and will come to pass in their time, both good things and evil, that which is of God's mercy as well that which of His justice. What you do with Christ determines whether you will know His sacrificial mercy or only known His perfect justice, as guilty sinner before an absolutely holy God.
The Son of man [Jesus identification with man, as Son of God is with Deity] shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. Mat. 13:41-43
Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: ..... And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. Mt. 25:41, 46
And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. Rev. 14:11
And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Rev. 20:10
"In flaming fire taking vengeance upon them that know not GOD, and that obey not the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the LORD, and from the glory of His power" 2Ths. 1:8, 9
The eternal choice to be made
The constant call to choose God over sin and be saved, by “the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Gal. 2:20
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Col. 1:13
"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out." "That if thou shall confess thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe that GOD hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved" "
For whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved" (2Ths. 1:8,9; Rom. 10:9, 13
“If GOD "spared not His own Son (having the same eternal nature), but delivered Him up for us all," "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation? Rm.10:9,13;. 8:32; Heb.2:3
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice (Jn. 14:6; 18:27).
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall, not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Jn.5:24
Summary
Muhammad
was not without some knowledge of the Bible (which was already well
established by Muhammad's time), which is reflected in his
reiterating certain Biblical texts and allusions to certain Biblical
events and concepts .
But Muhammad invariably not only skews the historical events of the Bible (he likely received many of his versions of Biblical stores from Biblically illiterate traders, etc., or other unreliable sources), but also produces an admixture of the fleshly paganism (sensual soft-eyed reclining virgins in a Muslim Paradise, waiting for their men to copulate with, etc.). along with his own peculiar visions.
Islam attempts to explain the great disparity between the Bible and the Quran by saying that the Bible has been altered whenever a contradiction exists between the two. Such an assertion is simply and truly in-credible, as among the many thousands of extant Biblical manuscripts there does not exist even one that agrees with Islam's claims concerning such things as it's Biblically disparate historical accounts. Meanwhile, the Quran's contradictions of the New Testament are so immense that it would require a near complete rewriting to concur with the Quran. Just the identity and mission of Christ alone, and His death and resurrection are so well established in the New Testament and so inextricably central to it's message that it is impossible to simply change it. Meanwhile, an abundance of Biblical manuscripts antedate the Quran, showing that the Bible that people read during the time of Muhammad – and which he called people to examine him by (apparently being largely ignorant of it) – is the same one that exists today.
Man without the Holy Spirit works to make a distorted image of GOD. In Muhammad's case it is a distant and impersonal deity, and one who cannot condescend to mans estate in order manifest himself nor redeem man, but who instead communicated a form of morality and theology through a monologue with Muhammad. Although in some respects this was superior to the polytheism of his day – insofar as it's morality and theology was closer to the Bible which Muhammad often drew from – it misconstrued both the revelation of God and His will, and reveals a god made in the image of man, rather than the wholly Holy, and perfectly Just, yet sacrificially Merciful and ultimately Benevolent Almighty GOD of Abraham!
The True and Living God neither abrogated his Holiness nor Justice in reconciling sinful, Hell-bound man to Himself. God's absolute holiness disallows that man can ever merit Paradise on the basis of His own deeds, nor escape Hell by the same, and the Lord's perfect justice precludes that man can be reconciled to God without a perfect atonement. Only in the cross of Christ is justice satisfied, and forgiveness and reconciliation enabling man.
“To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation” (2Cor. 5:19). " For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:" (1Pt.3:18). “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory” (1Tim. 3:16).
The Lord thus proclaims, "this is My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him." He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him" (Mt.17:5; Jn.3:36).
Will you do that today, or wil you sin away your day of grace and wake up in Hell, to your own eternal horror?! “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation.” “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out ...” “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Heb. 2:3; Acts 3:19; Rm. 10:9).
This decision is shown by being baptized under water in identification with your Lord, and then following Him with a Bible – believing and preaching evangelical church.
There is much more i could add on this subject, “but these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (John 20:31)
That is the simple, yet eternal truth and plea. May you who hear receive it for your eternal souls sake, to the glory of the True and Living God!
“O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good; for His mercy for ever” (Ps. 107:1)!
For additional evidence relating to Muhammad's exhortation to violence, see
http://bibleprobe.com/mohammed.htm
http://www.studytoanswer.net/islam_myths.html
http://www.answering-islam.org/Authors/Arlandson/ten_reasons.htm
Also see their home page, http://www.answering-islam.org
I also recommend www.muslimhope.com