Premium Essay

Differences in Worldviews Between Christians and Muslims

In:

Submitted By llhering
Words 612
Pages 3
Christian Worldview in Contrast to Islam
Larry Hering
The Islamic worldview of the world’s origin is similar to the Christian view in that they are monotheistic and believe their god, Allah, was the creator. Creation was Ex Nihilo, meaning that our world was created from nothing. The concept of the triune is blasphemous to them so we obviously have a major difference in our view of God and their view of Allah. There is also some indication that they also accept evolutionary theory (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011). In Islam they believe that man was created separately from animals, but they believe Allah made Adam from clay and a fluid (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011). As Christians we believe that we were created in God’s image; although God has no physical body, we are reflections of His glory and we also reflect His character in terms of love, forgiveness, kindness, and faithfulness (Genesis 1:26). Islam means “surrender”, and to the Muslim it means he must willingly surrender to the rites and rituals of the religion (Hindson & Caner, 2008) without the benefit of the Holy Spirit working within them. As Christians, our purpose is to know God and Jesus Christ through personal relationships and consequently gain our salvation. Muslims are to know Allah and obey the teaching of the Qur’an, which includes the Five Pillars of Islam (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011). Muslim ethical thinking begins from the premise that the most fundamental relationship in the life of human beings is their relationship with God. As Christians we are born as sinners and know there are no deeds we can do gain salvation and Muslims have to do their “ethically sound” prescribed deeds to gain salvation. Christians do good deeds as a result of their salvation and Muslims do good deeds to gain salvation. What we call heaven Muslims call paradise. Allah is in complete control of the

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Apologetics Application Paper

...APPLICATION PAPER Glenda Campbell APOL 500 July 4, 2014 Outline Introduction 1. Summary of the Islamic worldview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2. Evaluating the Islamic Worldview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 3. Correcting the Islamic Worldview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 4. Defending the Christian Worldview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 5. Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Apologetics Application Paper Introduction According to Brown, people everywhere filter what they read and hear through the grid of their own worldview. We all see the world different and the assumptions and prejudices that have about the world have an effect on how we regard the world. The Christian worldview and the Islamic worldview are similar, but they are different in many ways. But, what is a worldview? The ways a person views and understands the world have an effect on everyone. Sire defines a worldview as "a set of presuppositions (or assumptions) which we hold (consciously or subconsciously) about the basic...

Words: 2687 - Pages: 11

Premium Essay

Compare And Contrast Islamic Worldviews

...What is the remedy? Reformational worldviews and Islamic worldviews are very differing in their perspectives on remedies to certain problems. Just as both these groups would view the problems differently, they also view the solutions differently. The Reformational worldview calls us to understand those who have differing views than us and to love those that we may find unlovable, or our “enemies.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. calls us to view the enemy in a loving way. He said that we have the Christian and moral responsibility to discover and live out the calling to love thy enemy. Hatred only produces more hatred. Just as MLK says that loving the enemy can help break down the barrier of hatred, this is also a Reformational’s remedy. Matthew 5:44 calls us to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Just as God loves us through our flaws, we should show love to others, even if with disagree with them. Moreover, God created mankind in His image. Instead of seeing someone with different perspectives negatively, we should see them as image bearers of God. God still loves them as much as He loves us....

Words: 1556 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

My Critical Thinking Assignment

...Critical Thinking Assignment Critical Thinking Assignment Billy L Goe Apologetics 104-B35 Professor Obaina September 25, 2012 Critical Thinking Assignment 1 Part One: The Question of Origin The Quran states that "Allah created the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them, in six days" (7:54). While on the surface this might seem similar to the account related in the Bible, there are some important distinctions. After completing the Creation, the Quran describes that Allah "settled Himself upon the Throne" (57:4) to oversee His work. A distinct point is made to counter the Biblical idea of a day of rest: "We created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them in six days, nor did any sense of weariness touch Us" (50:38). Allah is never "done" with His work, because the process of creation is ongoing. Each new child who is born, every seed that sprouts into a sapling, every new species that appears on earth, is part of the ongoing process of Allah's creation. "He it is Who created the heavens and the earth in six days then established Himself on the Throne. He knows what enters within the heart of the earth, and what comes forth out of it, what comes down from heaven, and what mounts up to it. And He is with you wherever you may be. Allah sees well all that you do" (57:4). Retrieved September 20, 2012 from http://islam.about.com/od/creation/a/creation.htm The Question of Identity The Quran describes how Allah created Adam: “We created man...

Words: 1723 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Christian Worldview: Discussion Of Moral Responsibility

...Christian worldview I think has always influence the discussion of moral responsibility you can always go back to the saying that people say what would Jesus do, but we get all of this from the Bible which has been around a long time and even if some may disagree with it the Bible has had an impact of moral situations for a long time with some people using it for good and some people using what it says and twisting the books words to fits there needs. The difference between the Christian worldview and alternative worldviews depends on what the other worldview is, some have similar ways of thinking while others are off way off base. For example I know not everyone does these things but people do try from a Christian worldview perspective drink...

Words: 275 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Discussion Board 3 - Loving My Muslim Co-Worker

...“people will not care how much you know, until they know how much you care.” Now, as a Christian, to be able to build a relationship with a Muslim co-worker, many steps need to happen but I’d like to highlight three of them. First, I would find ways to connect with my co-worker outside of any religious topic. For me, finding other life interests have given me the opportunity to connect with people of other faiths, especially with Muslims. For example, food, sports, community events, or hobbies. It’s a great way to show the human side of a Christian, of which I believe we don’t do very well. Many times we place our faith in the forefront, making that the only bridge to connect with a person. This type of thinking is detrimental to all relationships. Second, we must seek opportunities to get involved in some way in the co-workers life. In other words, create memories outside of a work or religious setting. This step requires time, which is the best gift we can give to any person. For example, attending the mosque with your Muslim co-worker or an event with their faith community. This action may be a stretch for many of us as Christians and perhaps even controversial. But I believe nothing would speak louder for us to engage in that intimate setting of a Muslim co-workers life. Third, to build a relationship with the objective to present our beliefs, we must know why we are Christians. In several occasions, I have found myself in a conversation where a question is posed...

Words: 608 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Critical Thinking

...Part One: We believe the world was created by god. The World was created by The Creator-One God (Allah).In this matter Islam doesn't differ much from Christian teachings. The Question of Identity: In the Holy Qur'an, God teaches human beings that they were created in order to worship Him, and that the basis of all true worship is God-consciousness. Islam makes it clear that all human acts are acts of worship if they are done for God alone and in accordance to His Divine Law (www.Islamicinformation.net). As such, worship in Islam is not limited to religious rituals. The teachings of Islam act as a mercy and a healing for the human soul, and such qualities as humility, sincerity, patience and charity are strongly encouraged. However, human beings have also been created weak and regularly fall into sin. This is the nature of the human being as created by God in His Wisdom, and it is not inherently "corrupt" or in need of having repairs. (www.Islamicinformation.net). The Question of Meaning/Purpose: Islam condemns pride and self-righteousness, since Almighty God is the only judge of human righteousness. The Islamic view of the nature of man is also realistic and well-balanced. Human beings are not believed to be inherently sinful, but are seen as equally capable of both good and evil. Islam also teaches that faith and action go hand-in-hand. God has given people free-will, and the measure of one's faith is one's deeds and actions. This is because the avenue of repentance is...

Words: 875 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Paper

...largest religion in the world. (Halverson, 2004). Muslims (followers of Islam) contend that everything that exists is the result of God. According to the Quran, the world was created in six days through God (Allah’s) word; Allah commanded “Be,” and it was. (Davies-Stofka, 2014). Identity The Quran describes Allah creating all living things from water, but uniquely created man with his own hands. Allah created Adam and his “mate” from clay and fluids, breathing the spirit of life into them. The central idea of Islam is that God is one and one alone. To associate God with anyone is to commit the sin ishrak, for which there is no forgiveness. (Halverson, 2004) Purpose Islam means submission and obedience to God. All things created by God fulfill their assigned purpose by serving Allah. Muslims believe that God communicated through His prophet Muhammad that His purpose was for mankind to know and obey Him; following the teachings of the Quran. Morality Muslims contend that salvation is obtained “through their religious texts known as the Quran and Hadith. By studying these texts a Muslim lives a moral life.” (Weider 72). Muslims believe that mankind is good by nature and sin is thought of as rejecting guidance. (Halverson, 2004). Destiny Islam teaches that there is a continued existence of the soul and a transformed physical existence after death. Muslims believe in a final judgment where humans will be separated between the two eternal states of Paradise and Hell. Allah...

Words: 565 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Compare and Contrast Christianity and Islam

...Compare and Contrast Christianity and Islam In Wikipedia religion is defined“A religion is an organized collection of beliefs, cultural systems, and worldviews that relate humanity to an order of existence.” There are approximately more than four thousand religion in the world. Christianity and Islam are part of the major significant religion. Christianity was founded by Jesus Christ approximately 2,000 years ago; Christianity is one of the most influential religions in world history. Christianity developed out of Judaism in the first century C.E. Christianity is the life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the followers "Christians." Without Jesus, there is no Christianity The Prophets of God spoke about the coming of Jesus. The coming of Jesus is a covenant between God (Yahweh) and the people of Israel. God promised to send the Messiah (Anointed One), who would bless and save not only the Israelites, but all the peoples of the world. Jesus' purpose was two-fold. First, according to both Old and New Testament writings Jesus is God, who took on human form to teach us about Himself and His path to salvation (eternal life). Second, Jesus was to provide the ultimate sacrifice for our sins by dying on the cross of Calvary so that we could be with Him forever in heaven. To prove that He was God and that the sacrifice was efficacious, on the third day Jesus rose from the dead. Christianity has many different branches and forms with accompanying...

Words: 921 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

A Comparison Of Islam And The Judeo-Christian West

...religion is one of the largest religions in the world, with over 1 billion followers. It is a monotheistic faith based on revelations received by the prophet Mohammed in 7th century Saudi Arabia. The followers of the Islamic people are called muslims. The islamic tradition believes that the angel Gabriel appeared to the prophet over the course of 20 years, revealing to him many messages from God. Muslims recognize earlier Judeo-Christian prophets like Moses and Jesus as messengers of the same true God. But in Islam, Muhammad is the last and greatest of the prophets, whose revelations alone and pure and uncorrupted. The prophet dedicated the remainder of his life to spreading the message of monotheism in a polytheistic...

Words: 903 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

Ungs Extremism

...western cultures1930-to show reaction cause by modernism1970-apply in art and architecture | 1) worldview that deny all worldviews2) self-identity was emerged from group3) fragmentation into smaller ones4) distrust universal and force structure | 1) worldview that deny all worldviews2) self-identity was emerged from group3) fragmentation into smaller ones4) distrust universal and force structure | 1) ignore little narrative contains many needs2) not distinguish between ideology and universal principles of ethics | 1) ignore little narrative contains many needs2) not distinguish between ideology and universal principles of ethics | Wedding come from different faith background such as groom is Christian but bridegroom is Muslim | Materialism | | | | | | | | | Extremism | Comes from the word extreme which means an opinion or way of behaving that is different from another as it is possible to be. (Macmillan Dictionary) | There was a dissension of the Khawarij who accused the Caliph Ali, Mu’aweya, and the arbiters Abu Moussa Al Ash’ary and Amr bin Al Aass of infidelity for the arbitration. They also accused the followers of Al Jamal, Talha, Al Zubair, Ayisha, and all those who consented the arbitration, of infidelity. They considered infidel to any Muslims who commits a sin, shether small or grave, n contradiction with the consensus of the people of good judgement who saw that no Muslims could be accused of infidelity because of...

Words: 1225 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Rastarians and Muslims

...| Rastafarians & Muslims | Critical Analysis | | Jedaila Astwood | 9/18/2013 | There are many things that stand out in the world as we have come to know today. As time changes so do the world, our societies are now modern and complex. These societies have majority and minority groups of people. A minority group can be defining as the physical appearance and cultural practices that are different from those of a dominant group. Very often unequal treatment is bestowed upon the minority groups. There are a number of minority groups for example; racial, ethnic, gender, age, sexuality, people with disabilities and religious minorities. In this essay, I will discuss the similarities and differences between the Rastafarians and Muslims, and their struggle of assimilation and dominance. “Islam is the proper name to use when referring to the religion practiced by Muslims. It is an Arabic word that means two things: to surrender your will to God and to acquire peace in your soul. The legitimacy of using this word comes from the Muslim Holy Book, the Qur’an; and it is the only name Muslims use to refer to their religion” (Emerick, 2002). Research by Emerick (2002) states the five pillars of Islam are; Shahadah declaring allegiance to God, Salat daily prayer, Zakat annual charity, Saum month-long fasting, Hajj the pilgrimage to Mecca. According to Muslims, in order to become a Muslim you must believe and practice the five pillars of Islam. Arguably, the central theme...

Words: 1687 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Faith Diversity

...Health Care Provider and Faith Diversity Members of the healthcare team come in contact with a diverse multi-cultural environment on a daily basis. Every individual is just that an individual with a different worldview and varying faith background. To some individual’s, religion plays a very important role in their daily lives, while to others it may not seem to play a very big role. Newsweek (2009) polls since 1992 show religion is fairly to very important in the lives of 85% of people (as cited in Ashcraft, Anthony, & Mancuso, 2010). Numbers this high show that religion plays a major role to many and with that healthcare providers need to be aware of their own beliefs, while maintaining a respectful and supportive environment for the patients they are caring for and their beliefs. Patients along with nurses often look to their faith when in times of stress and illness. This paper will discuss the Native American spirituality philosophy compared to the Christian philosophy. Native American Spirituality According to the United States census (2000) “4.3 million people (1.5% of the total United States population) self-identified as American Indian or Alaska Native (as cited in Hubbert, 2008). Native American healing practices may include traditional healers such as medicine men and women, herbalists, and shaman who work to return the individual to optimal health. Rituals of healing and purification ceremonies, sand painting, spiritual chants, dancing, therapeutic sings, along...

Words: 1292 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Antisemitism and Catholic Colonial Algeria in the Time of Dreyfus

...Dreyfus' innocence and, implicitly, what it meant to be French in the Third Republic. Marked by an effusion of antisemitic vitriol, this debate has been characterized by Frederick Brown as a polarizing battle between two rival visions of France.[1] This battle at times extended to the streets, as it did in response to the publication of Émile Zola's 1898 “J'accuse.” Zola's open letter indicted the Army General Staff for antisemitism and cover-up, and prompted reactionary riots across France, the most violent of which occurred in French colonial Algiers. There, the burning of Zola in effigy sparked a riot in which 158 shops were destroyed, six Jews were assaulted (two fatally), and 9 rioters, 47 police, and a large but unknown number of Jews were seriously injured.[2] As the site of some of the only murderous violence during the Affair, colonial Algeria deserves particular attention. Examining the Dreyfus Affair from the perspective of French colonial Algeria illuminates the place of antisemitism in Algerian political culture, the development of modern French antisemitism, and the relationship between antisemitism and colonial racism.[3] According to George Fredrickson, antisemitism, like all Western racisms, is predicated on a presumption of basic human equality rooted in Christian and Enlightenment...

Words: 11536 - Pages: 47

Free Essay

Comparing Religions

...an important part of American society. There are many different religions that people follow for their own reasons such as Baptist, Protestant, Lutheran, Catholic, Muslim, and Buddhism. Each religion has different followings and ways to receive faith through the religion. Which religion has the most faith and why does that religion has the most faith? This essay will examine comparisons between the Baptist religion and other religions such as Catholic, Protestant, and Lutheran. These religions are some of the most important religions in the world today. Some of the other religions that can be compared to the Baptist religion are Buddhism, Muslim, and Sangria. The differences are far and wide, but there are some similarities between religions. The first religions that will be compared are Baptist and Catholic. There are many differences between the Baptist church and the Catholic Church, but most are not seen at first. Most of the differences between Baptist and Catholic churches have to do with theological differences, or the study of God of each church (Catholic vs. Baptist, 2012). The main difference between the two churches is the Communion of each church. The Roman Catholics takes communion at every mass while Baptists take communion on special holidays such as Easter and Christmas. The next difference between Baptists and Roman Catholics is the level of decoration within the main sanctuary. The Roman Catholic Church is decorated with painting, icons, and statues of saints...

Words: 1626 - Pages: 7

Free Essay

Secularisation

...------------------------------------------------- Religion in a Global Context For secularisation theory, modernisation undermines religion. The importance of science and technology in economic development, and the rational worldview on which they depend, are seen as destroying belief in the supernatural. On the other hand, religion may contribute to development, as Weber argued in the case of the protestant ethic (AO2 – Gordon Marshall and Peter Berger). More recently, sociologists have examined what role religion may play in development in today’s globalising world. Religion and Development Meera Nanda - God and Globalisation in India Globalisation has brought rising prosperity to India’s new middle class. Nanda’s book ‘God and Globalisation’ examines the role of Hinduism, the religion of 85% of the population, in legitimating both the rise of a new Hindu ‘ultra-nationalism’ and the prosperity of the Indian middle class. Hindusim and Consumerism Globalisation has created a huge and prosperous, scientifically educated, urban middle class in India, working in IT, Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology sectors closely tied into the global economy. According to Inglehart and Norris, these are precisely the people whom secularisation theory predicts will be the first to abandon religion in favour of a Secular View (AO2). Yet as Nanda Observes, a vast majority of this class continue to believe in the supernatural. A survey by the ‘Centre for the Study of developing Societies...

Words: 2375 - Pages: 10