At the Jenkins Center, we are committed to bringing biblical clarity to the challenges of Islam by educating, training, and preparing Christians for faithful service among Muslim peoples. Our goal is not only to deepen our understanding of Islam but also to apply that knowledge meaningfully in ministry. As Dr. Ayman S. Ibrahim writes in his book, Reaching Your Muslim Neighbor with the Gospel, “We should view Muslims as image bearers of God’s image, not as Islam’s possessions. While they are influenced by Islam, they are loved and sought by the almighty God.”
We praise the Lord for bringing the nations to the city of Louisville. Among them are many refugees and immigrants from the Middle East and North Africa. Believing that this is a divine opportunity, the Jenkins Center seeks to raise awareness for Muslim evangelism and encourage our student body to engage Muslims with the hope of Christ. To that end, we have been leading monthly evangelism for the past several semesters. Our team goes to a variety of locations, including the Walking Bridge, the mall, the University of Louisville, and Muslim-populated neighborhoods, to meet and converse with Muslims in the community.
Through these opportunities, we’ve formed meaningful relationships with many Muslim friends, some of which have continued over time. This semester, we had an average of 25 to 35 students join us each month. We are encouraged to see such strong participation and pray that this movement continues to grow. The gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to save all people, including our Muslim neighbors, and the ministry of evangelism does not have to start overseas. It can begin right here in the city where we live. As Dr. Ibrahim reminds us in his book, “We are living in a marvelous time for the church to engage Muslims with the gospel.” May we be faithful to that calling, right where God has placed us!
Here is some feedback from students who participated:
“My husband Andrew, our two toddlers and I were invited into the home of two Muslim brothers from Somalia. I was so glad for the opportunity the Jenkins Center provided because it was a gateway into the lives of Muslim immigrants we wouldn’t usually have. I am also grateful our children were welcome to the event and not a hindrance in conversation.” – Lizzie Wilson
“I am glad that I participated in this past weekend’s evangelism. It was good to fellowship with my brothers and sisters in Christ and to go out and share the gospel. I really appreciate the Jenkins Center for organizing these opportunities.” – Will Phillips
“I met a Muslim woman who works in one of the stores at the mall. I spent the entire time talking with her one-on-one and even got her contact information to hopefully grab lunch and continue our conversation. Our talk was very fruitful, and I was able to use the content I learned from the Jenkins Center event on Christian-Muslim apologetics.” – Madison Whaley