The Cultural Plague, Part I

Have you noticed how we just can't talk about religion anymore? Someone, somwhere is always getting angry about it. That's what happens today, when you bring up the controversially cultural worldwide acceptance of Islam.

With over a billion followers, Islam is one of the largest religions on the planet. Despite its vast following, many misconceptions about Muslims and their faith continue to circulate. This post seeks to clarify what a Muslim actually is, explore the cultural implications of Islam, and highlight the significant differences between Islam, Judaism, and Christianity.

What is a Muslim?

A Muslim is an individual who practices Islam, following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who they erroneously believe to be the final prophet of God. The word "Muslim" means "one who submits," reflecting their commitment to the will of Allah, the Arabic equialent of "God."

It's important to note that not all Muslims are Arabs. In fact, Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world, with about 231 million Muslims, followed by Pakistan (over 200 million) and India (approximately 195 million). Notice that these are all idolatrous countries where reading the Bible is considered taboo. This emphasizes that Muslim identity transcends ethnic lines, and that the danger of letting it run lose is great.

Where do Muslims Live?

Muslims inhabit every region of the world, with significant populations in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Each community practices Islam influenced by local customs and traditions. For example, the Islamic practices in Indonesia, where the majority of Muslims follow a moderate version of Islam, differ considerably from the Islamic practices in Saudi Arabia, which adheres to a stricter interpretation known as Wahhabism. This diversity illustrates the richness of Muslim cultures worldwide, challenging the stereotype that Islam means a single cultural identity.

Understanding the Differences: Muslims and Jews

Islam and Judaism share common roots, yet they are distinct religions with unique beliefs and practices. Muslims believe Muhammad is the final prophet and the Quran is the word of Allah, whereas Jews abide by the Torah and other sacred texts that were inspired to men by the true God, the God of Israel. Both religions emphasize monotheism, but their perspectives on God and His attributes differ.

Historically, the tie between Islam and Judaism is rooted in their Abrahamic beginnings. In Islam, Ishmael—Abraham's firstborn, whom he had with Hagar—is revered as a prophet and an ancestor of Arab nations. In contrast, Isaac, the son of God's promise of an inheritance on Earth, is viewed as the forefather of the Jewish people. This divergence has created distinct religious and cultural identities over time.

Who Was Ishmael?

Ishmael is a pivotal figure in both Islamic and Jewish traditions, but his legacy differs between the two faiths. Islam views him as a prophet and a forerunner to Muhammad, while Judaism regards him primarily an important character in the narrative of Abraham's family. He was prophesied by God to be a "trouble child." He already knew what this one would do. According to Genesis, Hagar was sent away by Sarah, because Ishmael did not get along with Isaac. After being banned from Abraham's camp, Ishmael wandered in the desert and became the ancestor of many nations, including the Ishmaelites, just as God had promised Hagar he would do.

The relationship between Muslims and Jews is shaped by this shared heritage but also by the historical complexities of their faiths. Recognizing Ishmael's role can offer insights into the longstanding narrative of conflict and cooperation between Hebrews and Muslims.

The Cultural Shift and the Emergence of Islam

The rise of Islam in the 7th century represents a significant turning point in religious history. Muslims believe to have received divine revelations from the entity they recognize as god, Allah, later compiled into the Quran. These teachings framed Islam as a distinct faith that, while linked to Abraham, offers different principles and laws than Judaism, which is the true religion of Abraham.

Judaism and Christianity are often erroneously called sister religions to Islam, but it's essential to understand the theological differences. For instance, while Muslims respect Yeshua as a prophet, they do not accept Him as the Son of God. This core disagreement is fundamental when comparing the three faiths.

Similarities and Differences Among the Abrahamic Faiths

Many view Islam, Judaism, and Christianity as similar because of their shared origins. They all believe in a single creator and endorse many moral teachings, yet their understandings of God, prophecy, and salvation significantly differ. For example, Christians understand that Yeshua Christ is the Savior and Son of God, a belief that conflicts with Islamic teachings.

Some argue that equating these faiths diminishes the unique role of Yeshua in Christianity. For Believers, the portrayal of Yeshua as merely a prophet fails to acknowledge His divine nature and crucial role in salvation. This is only one of the largest problems surrounding Islam.

The Dangers of Cultural Pluralism

In our diverse society, excessive acceptance of various beliefs can blur the lines of truth regarding God and His revelations. Public acts, like the Pope kissing the Quran, illustrate the trend of cultural pluralism—a dangerous path that can distort the truth about biblical teachings.

For many, especially devout Christians, these gestures are seen as contradictory to core Christian beliefs. The commitment to the God of Israel and following Yeshua demands a steadfast dedication that cannot coexist with the tenets of Islam or any other belief system. And yet the Abrahamic accords were signed to define a strong bond between Jews and Muslims before Israel and the entire world, including a peaceful understanding between Judaism, Christianity and Islam that even allows the Dome of the Rock to continue to stand in the midst of beautiful Jerusalem. This majestic symbol of idolatry right in the middle of God's favored city is an act of rebellion against the God of Israel that the children of the Promise, the Ivrit, are sure to pay as harshly as any idolater. Let us pray for our reconciliation with the Lord, before any of these things come to pass.

A Message of Hope

Despite the identified divisions, hope remains for everyone, including Muslims. In the last three years, I was revealed that "Abraham had two sons, and Yeshua seeks to save them both," which can resonate deeply with the Great Commission and the times. However, this hope hinges on embracing the truth found in Yeshua as Christ alone and renouncing conflicting beliefs to worship the one true God.

In summary, engaging with the topics of Islam and Muslim culture requires a blend of clarity and compassion. Acknowledging the clear differences while standing firm in the truth is essential as we navigate discussions about faith. Understanding these complexities is vital for anyone seeking spiritual clarity amidst a world filled with confusion. We have to stop being complacent and idolatrous. We have to stop being a nation that likes to please its friends and look well before the world. If the world belongs to Satan, the most logical thing we can do is let it go and return to the Lord.

Recognizing the singular nature of truth is critical. Let us turn to the expectations of Christ in the Age. Yeshua returns soon.

Shalom.