On Saturday, September 21st, we had the privilege of hearing from several of our staff members and friends of the Jenkins Center who have been involved in evangelism with Muslims. They shared principles, passages, and practices that have been helpful to them, including personal stories of how God has used them to proclaim Christ.
Our first presenter was Amos Luka, who shared some recent, real-life conversations he had with Muslim immigrants locally. Some were more open than others. Amos reminded us that intercessory prayer is essential. We are invited to be witnesses for Jesus; feeling like a novice reminds us of our dependence on God. Amos reminded us that Muslims are created in the image of God – people who need Christ and who also need friendship. While we stand firmly opposed to the ideology of Islam, Muslims are not the enemy.
Jason Wasti spoke next, focusing on building bridges with Muslims and asking good questions. He encouraged us to get to know Muslims and to ask about who they are, where they are from, and what they believe – because listening to them affords us the right and opportunity to direct the conversation toward spiritual matters as we begin to build a friendship. Asking about what they believe or, for instance, what religious holidays they look forward to and why allows us to learn what they believe or value and then to share what we believe. Jason shared a recent conversation he had with a Muslim student on a college campus in Toronto. Since the student brought up the festival of sacrifice, Jason took the opportunity to share the story of Abraham offering his son from the Bible (on which the festival is said to be based). There are many parallels between Isaac and Jesus which demonstrate how Isaac was pointing forward to Jesus. For instance, both were willing to lay down their lives although they were innocent. God provided a substitute in the case of Abraham’s son – but Jesus is the substitute.
Our beloved Grace Kim was the next presenter. She encouraged us not to be afraid to approach Muslims, but to pursue conversations and relationships with them. Her approach is to be friendly and initiate conversation, usually by discussing culture. She often shares that she’s from Korea (sometimes even sharing a Korean snack) and asks about their home country and cultural background. “How did you become a Muslim?” is one of her favorite questions. Most Muslims are born with this religious identity; they may not have considered other options.
Finally, Carl Williams spoke, sharing some excellent insights from Dr. Ibrahim’s book, Reaching Your Muslim Neighbor with the Gospel, and Mike Shipman’s “Any Three” approach. Carl warned against using “Christian-ese” terms that Muslims might not understand (especially if English is not their first language, as was brought up during the Q&A). Carl shared examples of helpful, leading questions, such as “How many good things must a Muslim do?” or “How much assurance do you have that you will be forgiven and go to paradise?” Always bring it back to the Gospel, Carl encouraged us, and have your Bible with you – it’s powerful to be able to read from it. Instead of attacking them and their views, ask questions.
Dr. Bougher moderated the event, including the Q&A following the presentations. His insights added to the collective wealth shared by the panel of speakers. Following this opportunity to ask specific questions and process what had been shared, attendees enjoyed a meal and time of fellowship before heading out to engage in Gospel conversations in public areas.
This training session was encouraging as well as practical. Hearing from real people about real conversations brought concepts to life and demonstrated that God indeed can and will bring about opportunities to share the hope of Christ with Muslims. While they may not always be open to hearing from us, the Lord is at work among Muslims and desires us to befriend them and show them Christ.